How to Build a UGC Beginner Portfolio in Canva

How to Build a UGC Beginner Portfolio in Canva (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you want to start landing paid UGC deals, the very first thing you need is a UGC portfolio. Think of it as your resume—your proof of work, your content showcase, and the #1 tool brands use to decide whether to hire you.

The good news? You don’t need expensive software or design skills. You can build a clean, professional UGC portfolio in Canva—for free.

Below is a complete beginner-friendly guide that walks you through exactly how to create your UGC portfolio from scratch.

Why You Need a UGC Portfolio

A UGC portfolio is non-negotiable if you want paid work. According to Module 3 of the UGC Course, here’s why it matters:

• It shows brands your filming and editing ability

• It establishes trust and professionalism

• It demonstrates your ability to create multiple UGC styles

• It helps brands visualize how your content fits their marketing strategy

Brands will not hire a creator who can’t show examples—and Canva is the easiest place to build your first portfolio.

STEP 1: Sign Into Canva & Choose Your Format

Go to canva.com and create a free account if you don’t already have one.
Module 3 recommends creating your portfolio as a scrolling website or PDF, both built inside Canva.

Best Portfolio Formats for Beginners

• Scrolling Website (Recommended): Looks professional, loads fast, opens easily on mobile

• PDF Portfolio: Great for email pitching and attachments

How to Start

1. Click “Create a Design”

2. Select Website (1366 x 768px) for a clean portfolio layout

3. Choose a minimal, modern template OR start with a blank canvas

STEP 2: Add the Essential Portfolio Sections

Your portfolio needs a simple, clear structure. According to the UGC Course, these are the mandatory sections:

1️⃣ Intro Page (Name + Who You Are)

Include:

• Your name

• Headshot or clean photo

• One-sentence summary (example: “I create authentic, high-converting UGC videos for beauty, lifestyle, and wellness brands.”)

• Contact email

2️⃣ What You Offer

List your UGC services, such as:

• Talking-to-camera testimonials

• Unboxings

• Product demos

• Voiceover ads

• B-roll aesthetic videos

These are the 6 core UGC video types brands pay for (Module 2 & 3):

3️⃣ Portfolio Examples (6–9 Videos)

This is the heart of your portfolio.

Module 3 recommends uploading 5–10 videos, ideally across 1–3 niches:

Suggested layout:

• 3 beauty/skincare examples

• 3 lifestyle/home examples

• 3 wellness/fitness examples

TIP: Embed videos directly into Canva using:

• Your Google Drive links

• YouTube unlisted links

• Canva’s upload feature

4️⃣ Brands You've Worked With (Optional)

If you have past collaborations, list the brand logos.
If not—skip this. Beginners are not expected to have brand experience.

5️⃣ Call-to-Action

End your portfolio with a clear CTA such as:

• “Let’s work together!”

• “Click below to connect.”

Include:

• Email

• Social links

• Calendar link (optional)

STEP 3: Film the Videos for Your Portfolio

If you’re a total beginner, follow Module 2’s guidance for filming high-quality content—even with a phone.

Must-Film Portfolio Videos

• 1 talking-to-camera testimonial

• 1 product demo

• 1 unboxing

• 1 voiceover video

• 1 aesthetic B-roll montage

Beginner Filming Tips

• Use natural light near a window

• Film in 4K 30FPS for best clarity

• Keep the background clean and minimal

• Use a tripod or stack of books for steady shots

• Capture close-ups, textures, and product details

These five videos alone are enough to start pitching brands.

STEP 4: Design Your Portfolio Layout in Canva

Keep your design simple, modern, and brand-friendly.

Tips for a Professional Look

✔ Use a neutral color palette
✔ Choose only 1–2 fonts
✔ Leave breathing room (don’t overcrowd pages)
✔ Keep text minimal—your videos should shine

STEP 5: Upload Your Videos Into Canva

In Canva:

1. Click Uploads

2. Upload your MP4 files or paste Google Drive links

3. Arrange them neatly under each section

Make sure each video thumbnail looks clean—opt for product shots or bright frames.

STEP 6: Publish Your Portfolio

Once finished, you can publish your portfolio in two ways:

Option 1: Publish as a Website (Best for mobile viewing)

• Click Share → More → Website

• Choose Scrolling format

• Copy the link

Option 2: Download as a PDF

• Click Share → Download

• Select PDF Standard

Brands often appreciate both formats—PDF for pitch emails and website links for quick viewing.

STEP 7: Update Your Portfolio Monthly

Module 3 emphasizes updating your portfolio regularly as you build experience.

Your content improves fast—don’t let outdated videos represent you.

Beginner UGC Portfolio Checklist

From Module 3’s list:

✔ Choose Canva website or PDF template
✔ Add intro, services, portfolio, CTA
✔ Upload 6–9 high-quality UGC videos
✔ Publish your portfolio link
✔ Test it on mobile
✔ Update monthly

Final Thoughts: Your Portfolio Is Your Ticket to Paid UGC Deals

Your portfolio is often the only thing a brand sees before deciding to hire you. When it looks clean, professional, and filled with strong examples—you immediately stand out from 90% of beginners.

A polished Canva portfolio shows:

• You’re serious

• You can deliver

• You understand brand aesthetics

Follow these steps and you’ll have a portfolio you can confidently pitch to brands today.