If you already like making videos, you have more side-gig options than you think.
You do not need to wait until you have 100,000 followers. You do not need a studio. You do not need a perfect niche on day one. You need a skill that someone else finds useful.
For young creators in the US, the best side hustles are the ones that turn short-form video instincts into something brands, creators, or local businesses can use.
The Short Answer
The best side hustles for young creators in the US who like making videos include UGC creation, short-form video editing, creator clipping, social media assistance, affiliate content, and local business content. UGC is often one of the most realistic starting points because brands need content even from people without large audiences.
The key is to choose a side hustle that fits your current skills, schedule, and comfort on camera.
UGC Creation
UGC is one of the best side gigs for young creators because it does not always require a big following.
Brands need videos that feel native to TikTok, Reels, and Shorts. They need product demos, app walkthroughs, routines, reviews, and problem-solution videos. If you can make content that feels natural and explains a product clearly, you can become useful.
Good starter categories include:
- Apps
- Fitness
- Skincare
- Study tools
- Food and drinks
- Budget fashion
- AI tools
- Lifestyle products
UGC is especially strong if you like being on camera and can follow a brief.
Short-Form Video Editing
If you do not want to be on camera, editing can be a good option.
Many creators, coaches, podcasters, and small brands need clips for TikTok, Reels, and Shorts. They may have long videos but no time to turn them into short-form content.
You can help by cutting clips, adding captions, improving pacing, choosing hooks, and formatting videos for each platform.
This side gig works best if you enjoy rhythm, structure, and making videos feel faster and clearer.
Creator Clipping
Creator clipping means turning longer videos, streams, podcasts, or interviews into short clips.
This can work well if you already watch a lot of creator content and understand what makes a moment interesting. The skill is not only editing. It is spotting the part people would actually watch.
Good clips usually have:
- A clear hook
- One idea
- Fast pacing
- Captions
- A strong ending
This can be a good side gig if you prefer editing and research over filming yourself.
Social Media Assistant
Some small businesses know they need social content but do not know what to post.
A young creator can help with simple tasks:
- Filming behind-the-scenes videos
- Editing short clips
- Writing captions
- Posting consistently
- Organizing content ideas
- Tracking what performs
This works well for local gyms, salons, cafes, boutiques, tutoring businesses, and small ecommerce brands.
The advantage is that local businesses may care more about consistency than perfection.
Affiliate Content
Affiliate content means you earn when someone buys through your link or code.
This can work, but it is harder than it looks. You usually need trust, consistency, and an audience that actually wants the product. It is not the fastest option for everyone.
Affiliate content can be a good add-on if you already post around a niche, but it should not be your only plan when you are starting.
For most beginners, UGC or editing can create clearer early value.
Local Business Video Packages
Local businesses often need simple video content.
You could offer a small monthly package:
- Four short videos
- A few photos
- Captions
- Simple posting support
- One content idea list
This can be useful if you are comfortable walking into local businesses, explaining your offer, and showing examples.
The biggest challenge is sales. The biggest advantage is that many local businesses still do not have good short-form content.
Which Side Hustle Should You Start With?
Choose based on your strengths.
If you like being on camera, start with UGC. If you like editing, start with clips. If you like organization and content planning, try social media assistance. If you are comfortable selling locally, try local business packages.
Do not try to start everything at once.
Pick one, build five examples, and learn from the response.
Why UGC Is Often the Best First Step
UGC is a strong first step because it teaches you how brands think.
You learn hooks, briefs, deadlines, product demos, claims, usage rights, and file delivery. Even if you later move into editing, social media management, or your own influencer brand, UGC gives you a useful foundation.
You learn how to make content that has a job.
That is different from posting for attention.
How 8x Fits
8x works with creators who can produce content for real brand campaigns. If you are young and want a side gig, the best thing you can do is become useful: make clear videos, communicate well, and show that you can follow direction.
Brands do not only need famous creators. They need creators who can make products feel real.
FAQ
What is the easiest video side hustle to start?
UGC can be one of the easiest to start because you can build sample videos with products or apps you already use, and you do not always need a large following.
What if I do not want to be on camera?
Short-form editing, creator clipping, and social media assistance can be good options if you prefer working behind the camera.
Can young creators make money from UGC?
Some can, but it depends on portfolio quality, reliability, communication, and campaign fit. It should not be treated as guaranteed income.
What should I do first?
Choose one side hustle, create five examples, organize them into a simple portfolio, and start looking for real campaign opportunities.
CTA
If you want to turn video skills into brand campaign work, apply to become a creator with 8x.
