📹 ✅ Ever find yourself thinking, “I know what I want to film, I just don’t know how to start…”?

You’re not alone - and today we’re discussing one of the best-kept secrets of high-performing UGC creators on Clip: Storyboarding. Think of it as your content’s GPS. You’re still in the driver’s seat - but less likely to get lost on the way.

How to storyboard for short-form UGC content?

How will it elevate your work?

Why is it your new best friend when pitching or filming for brands?

Storyboarding is simply planning your content before you hit record. It could be:

• A rough sketch of each shot or scene

• A written list of key talking points

• A scene sheet of visuals matching the script

• A final voiceover recorded with place-holders

This isn’t about being rigid - it’s about being ready so your creativity has room to shine.

Why It Works for UGC:

• ✅ Saves time (you know what you’re filming)

• ✅ Keeps videos structured (even spontaneous ones)

• ✅ Helps you stay on-message and prioritise (especially for brand deals)

• ✅ Gives you confidence before and during filming

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel every time you create. Here’s a proven framework to follow (but keep creative):

1. Hook (0–3 seconds)

This is the scroll-stopper. You’ve got 1-2 seconds to grab attention. Make it count.

• Ask a bold question

• Use a surprising visual

• Tease an outcome

Examples:
🗣 “This just replaced my entire skincare routine…”
📦 A dramatic pause before opening a package
🤯 “I’ve been using this wrong my whole life!”

2. Middle (4–45 seconds - depending on the video length)

This is where the value comes in - explain, demonstrate, or share the experience.

• Use voiceover or talk to camera

• Focus on benefits, emotions, or personal reaction

• Show real usage / behind-the-scenes moments - perfect spot for lots of great b-roll footage

Examples:

• Apply the product and explain why you love it

• Show a “before and after” moment

• Walk through the unboxing and your first impressions

Where to find inspo for your script? ➡️ Look at this!

3. Final thoughts + CTA (last 10-15 seconds)

This is where you land the message and connect with your audience. Make sure to sound authentic, natural, and avoid the CTA sounding too salesy (it’s a turn-off!)

• Offer your honest review

• Share a “next step”

• Include a CTA (comment, save, try, etc.)

Examples:
💬 “Would I buy it again? 100%.”
🙌 “And that’s how it fits into my daily routine…”
👀 “Let me know how you like it after you try it!”

You don’t need a film degree. Try one of these quick methods:

• Note It: Just write out your 3 sections: Hook, Core, CTA. Bullet points are fine!

• Sketch It: Draw boxes for each shot - if you’re more of a visual person.

• Voice Memo It: Talk through the idea out loud before filming - this might unlock some ideas that you would not think of otherwise.

Pro tip: Add timestamps for each section so you stay within the brief’s ideal video length. And always remember to shoot more b-roll clips than you think you will need for more editing flexibility.

Want a head start? Here are 3 ready formats to try:

💄 Product How-To:

Hook: “I’ve been testing this for a week - here’s the truth.”
Middle: Show how you use it + your commentary
End: Final thoughts, would you recommend?

EXAMPLE!

📦 Unboxing (Pssst... we're covering this LIVE tomorrow!):

Hook: “Let’s see what’s inside this box 😍”
Middle: Open it, react naturally, highlight key items
End: Favourite item, impressions, what you’ll use first

EXAMPLE!

🧠 Testimonial (OR Problem → Solution):

Hook: “I’ve been struggling with [pain point]…”
Middle: Show how the product helped
End: What changed, and why it matters

EXAMPLE!

🧠 Planning doesn’t mean perfection.

It means confidence. And when your idea has structure, it’s easier to stay authentic, creative, and right on track to what the brand wants to see.

So storyboard it your way. Use sketches, bullet points, or voice memos. But give your content a plan - and then make it yours.

 👀 JOIN US LIVE 👀

🎬 Join us on Instagram Live tomorrow:

Wednesday, 21st May at 5:30PM UK time 🎥

We're breaking down:

• What makes a great unboxing video

• The psychology behind why they work

• How to storyboard one from scratch

👉 Follow us on IG @useclip and hit that 🔔 so you don’t miss it.

SEE YOU TOMORROW!

🚀 🛠 Now that you understand the importance of storyboarding… Log in to Clip, check out the latest briefs, and start applying today!

Happy Creating,

Team Clip