Trend, the UGC marketplace that used to run at trend.io, was acquired by the content studio soona and now operates as soona UGC. Creators apply to join its talent network, then take on brand campaigns to film product videos and photos. You’re paid per video, and you don’t need a large social following, because brands buy the content, not your audience.
At a glance
| Type of work | Filming product videos and photos for ecommerce brands |
| How you earn | A set amount per video completed, based on your creator level |
| Followers needed | None; brands use the content on their own channels |
| Cost to join | Free; every application is reviewed by soona’s team |
| What you get | Products shipped to you, plus pay per video |
| Where it works | Mainly the US |
What happened to Trend
Trend was one of the early UGC marketplaces, connecting ecommerce brands with everyday creators for authentic product content. soona, a studio known for product photography and video, bought it and folded it into its platform as soona UGC. Creators and brands now work through soona.co, and old Trend links lead there.
How soona UGC works for creators
You apply at soona’s creator page with your details and sample content, such as a short video showing how you’d present a product. A real person on the soona team reviews every application. Once accepted, you can browse brand campaigns and apply, choosing how many videos you can deliver each week, or get invited by brands who find you in soona’s talent directory.
When a brand picks you, you’re hired for a set number of videos, from one to ten or more. The brand ships you the product, you film to their brief, upload in the platform, and the brand approves and downloads the content with full usage rights.
Creator levels and pay
soona sorts creators into levels, and brands pay more for higher levels. On the brand side, soona prices videos from $89 at Level 1 to $259 at Level 3. Creators are paid per completed video, at a rate set by their level and creator agreement. soona doesn’t publish creator rates on its public pages, so check your agreement for the exact figure.
What makes a strong application
Brands want content that looks natural and sells. Good lighting, clear audio, a tidy background and a confident, friendly delivery matter more than fancy editing. Show a range in your samples: a hook in the first two seconds, an unboxing, a “here’s how I use it” clip. Natural light and a phone on a tripod are enough to start.
Before you apply
Put together two or three short sample videos with products you already own. Film one testimonial-style clip talking to camera, one hands-on demo, and one quick unboxing. Keep each under 30 seconds, film vertically, and make sure the product is clearly visible and well lit. Write a short bio about the kinds of products you know well, such as skincare, kitchen gadgets or pet supplies, since brands look for creators who fit their niche.
Owen’s take
UGC is one of the few creator side hustles where you don’t need followers, and soona’s version is cleaner than most: real people review applications, products arrive at your door, and the brief tells you exactly what to film. The trade-off is that rates are tied to your level and not published, and campaigns are competitive. Treat your first few jobs as portfolio builders, deliver on time, and you’ll climb levels and get rebooked.
Who it suits
It suits people comfortable on camera who can film clear, natural product videos with a phone, and who can deliver to a brief on time. It suits less well anyone who wants guaranteed weekly work or hates being on camera.
Similar options
- Collabstr lets creators list their own packages for brands.
- Fiverr lets you sell UGC videos as fixed-price gigs.
- Upwork has UGC and video contracts for creators.
More options are in Influencer & UGC.
Pros and cons
Pros
- No following needed
- Products shipped to you, with clear briefs
- Every application reviewed by a person
Cons
- Creator pay rates aren’t published
- Campaigns are competitive
- Work volume depends on brand demand
FAQ
What happened to Trend.io?
Trend was acquired by soona and now runs as soona UGC on soona.co.
Do I need followers to be a soona UGC creator?
No. Brands pay for the content itself and use it on their own channels.
How are soona UGC creators paid?
Per completed video, at a rate based on your creator level and agreement.
How do I apply to soona UGC?
Through soona’s creator sign-up page, with your details and sample content. Each application is reviewed by soona’s team.
