In this behind-the-scenes stock video shoot, my wife and I attempt a concept shoot highlighting empty-nesters, widow, alone on Christmas, lonely - you get the picture.

I have filmed myself doing normal activities that I enjoy. I've also filmed my wife in her salon doing manicures or sewing and other hobbies and chores. This is really the first time we did a planned concept shoot. I've got to tell you, it feels strange, and it is hard to watch yourself "acting."

In addition to the psychologic difficulty of pretending and seeing yourself on video, there are technical issues I need to learn from.

First, I am not sure that the motion helped. I tried to use it to show off the environment without using a wide-angle lens. Mainly, I wanted to show that it was Christmas but not show the art on the walls or things around the house that we would have had to remove. Remember, you cannot show art or logos without a release. Be thoughtful about framing or take all the pictures off the walls and put tape over the logo on the TV, for example.

Also, I would like to learn more about lighting. The first purchases you should make with your stock video profits are camera, tripod, and good lighting. I have not followed that sequence and it shows.

I will try to do more of these and do them better. I'll report any sales I have from these BTS shoots.

I welcome any thoughts or comments. This is not about me being an expert. It's about learning and growing together. I am new at this, but I am convinced that submitting footage with models acting with clear conceptual objectives is the best way to have top-selling footage.

I hope this is helpful and I hope we can learn together and make money selling realistic stock footage. Thanks for watching, liking, and subscribing.