A "Filler" Episode:

An episode in-between episodes. In this video I discuss a wonderful philatelic gift that I picked up for some family along with some other updates of what I have been up to. I also discuss the 10 steps that I take to produce and launch videos for the 'Exploring Stamps' channel.
Follow me on Social Media:
Twitter: / exploringstamps​
Instagram: exploringst...
Links and Mentions
GUYGEE art: guygee.com/en-us
GUYGEE instagram: / guygee
Virtual Stampex: stampex.vfairs.com/
CLASH OF EMPIRES KZbin: / @clashofempires
Richard Philatelist: / @richardphilatelist
The Digital Philatelist KZbin List: thedigitalphilatelist.com/you...
More about free video editing software:
www.cyberlink.com/blog/the-to...
Ask me questions and I will answer, anything about my techniques, style, software and more. Thanks for watching :D

[@Galo1908mg]

This guy is awesome. Most of the KZbinrs doesnt share their techniques or secrets to avoid competition and get all the clicks just for them. But Graham actually wants more and more people to follow his steps and get in to contend creating. A big thank you!

[@mkozlinski]

Our niche on YT is small so the more philatelic KZbinrs the better for each others and for the the hobby itself.

[@ExploringStamps]

You are the best, Gustavo 😊. Yeah the more content we can encourage, the more we can share this beautiful hobby with others. Thanks so much for all your support.

[@ExploringStamps]

Absolutely! And that is the way that I see it as well. The size of our niche means that we only benefit from new content creators. The hobby needs more content!

[@mkozlinski]

@@ExploringStamps The beauty is that we can hardly compete with each other like say, retro gamers, who created wazillion simmillar videos about Super Mario's mustache or keep repeating the same rants about the latest Disney productions

[@garyholdener2470]

Thoroughly interesting and enlightening. Your success Graham is directly related to your effort and attention to detail. Seeing the effort you put into every video makes me even more appreciative of your channel, Laura, and especially you. A sincere thank you for the enjoyment you create and share.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thanks Gary!! And a sincere "thank you" to you as well, without viewers that engage and support the channel such as yourself, there wouldn't be a channel. Hope you are well 😊

[@ponderanceofagravedigger2564]

I've told you before but I'll say it again... thank you so much for putting in all that work to make such wonderful videos. I believe you are changing the face of the hobby one video at a time. You made stamp collecting fun again! Your channel has made me blow off the dust on my own collection and get enjoying them again back when you where filming the first season. Thank you so much Graham.

[@ExploringStamps]

That is so kind of you, thank you :D. It means a lot to know that you enjoy the videos and that they have helped you get back into the hobby and blow the dust off the old collection. Thanks so much for your support!!

[@SergeHoude4U]

You have single-handedly (with Laura's help) done more for Philately than any other person or Institution has ever done in History.

[@ExploringStamps]

😊 Thank you Serge, I hope that the channel has made an impact. Thank you so much for your support and viewership!

[@Scott-dv3iv]

This type of video is so technical for me that ordinarily I would be bored stiff. However, Graham, I was fascinated by your process and all the careful thought you put into your work. No wonder you are a leading figure in philately!

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Scott 😊. So glad to see you found it interesting, Its a common request that I get from some viewers, but I was wondering if this would bore the others who may not find it interesting. Thanks for the feedback!!

[@fabieng817]

Wow what a video, it shows the amount of work behind the scene! This explains why this channel is always so professional and so high quality ❤. Great Great Great idea to promote Philately this way, well done Graham !

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Fabien, it means a lot to see viewers enjoying the content. Thank you so much for your support 😊

[@BobCollectsStamps]

Excellent! Better than a filler, for sure. I appreciate all your philatelic efforts here and elsewhere.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thanks Bob! 😊 And I appreciate all your support and efforts as well!

[@keesdewaard206]

Thanks for this look behind the scenes! I had an idea that it was a lot of work, but now I realised it is even more work. Thanks for the effort you put into your wonderful content Graham. I keep enjoying your videos.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Kees 😊. Always great to see you in the comment section, your support means a lot! Thanks so much for watching.

[@conniejohnson9393]

Wow, this was so interesting, It is something I will never use but I am amazed at what you have to do to get a video out. I was under the impression that a few hours and ta da it is done. I can only hope that you make enough money from your videos to make it worth while. Keep up the great work I love all your videos.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thanks Connie 😊. So good to see that you enjoy the content. Hope you are well!!

[@psarj]

Great video, as always! There is a meticulous quality to your videos: through your attention to detail you come across as someone who thoroughly enjoys doing this. Speaking selfishly, I hope this enjoyment lasts for many years to come! 😀😀 Also, pleased to see PowerPoint getting the props it deserves! It's one of the best kept "secrets" of the graphic editing world!

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Paul! 😊. Without PowerPoint, I would be lost 😂… it really is a best kept “secret”! Thanks so much for all your support.

[@jacquesmeyer5905]

Hi Graham. I loved this video. I always wondered what happens "behind the scenes". I am thinking of starting a channel focusing on the history of Southern African Philately, and this has really given me some great ideas. I will let you know how it is going.

[@ExploringStamps]

Hi Jacques, that would be AMAZING! I would be a subscriber without hesitation. Glad you found the video useful, let me know if you have any questions 😊

[@mkozlinski]

As a some sort of "pro" in videomaking business I hereby confirm that this is the optimal workflow process 🙂 I did some "reversed engineering" of your videos (hoping that one day I have enough time to shot something philatelic) and that's mostly it (although that Power Point killed me 🤣) I've come to the point where I have to "unlearn what I learned" because I realized that my formal moviemaking education and 20 years in business is more blocking me than helping. This and my dSLR that weights more than battleship Bismarck :)

[@ExploringStamps]

Seeing this comment makes me feel LESS insane 😂😂. Thank you!! I sometimes wonder if there is a substitute for the hard work that goes into producing content like this, its good to know that someone from the industry confirms my approach 😊. I'm hoping that you do have time to produce philatelic content one day, I will eagerly be one of your viewers!!

[@happybunny1329]

Beluga created a massive channel very quickly based entirely on 3 minute videos. You don't have to make an epic every video for it to be successful channel, so time available for creation is not so critical if you go for short vids. I would love to see your approach as a professional videomaker to the subject of philately and I hope you start a channel. :)

[@mkozlinski]

@@happybunny1329 Beluga is a different area of content and my goal is by no means to create "massive" channel. Quality over quantity. I'm almost 50 and I don't have to race :)

[@mkozlinski]

@@ExploringStamps Don't rely too much on sanity. It's overated 🤣🤣 I have to invest in some less heavy tinker toys. For example my lighting gear is quite old (I have some tungsten Red Heads that 1kW each) or some crazy Chinese luminescene "bulbs" - they all takes time to put toghether, than to put them back, my dSLR is Canon 7D - from 2010 :) So some led ring light, that flexible tripod, extension cable for mike (I have pretty decent Rode shotgun). I have few scripts outlined but need to translate them and give someone for proofreading (my English sucks...)

[@richardpurvis4532]

I have enjoyed stamp collecting my whole life and learned so much re geography/history Graham you have brought a very refreshing twist to the hobby congrats

[@ExploringStamps]

It certainly is an educational hobby that keeps teaching me something new every day. 😊 thanks Richard, glad you are enjoying the content!!

[@TanyaJohnsonKaszazz]

Graham, your videos are amazing and so informative. Thank you for a peak into your process - it’s fantastic! The work and time you put in definitely make your videos enjoyable to watch.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Tanya 😊. It means a lot to know that viewers like you enjoy the videos. Thanks for watching!!

[@blazendary]

Definitely would remake that top 10 list as it’s own video too and name brand it and make sure it fits good seo criteria with correct video tags too

[@ExploringStamps]

Interesting that you brought this up, it is something that I have been thinking about...especially since they much wider appeal than my other typical videos. 🤔 Thank you!!

[@jimhresco1728]

Your diligence and professionalism is inspiring and also helps to further popularize the hobby.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Jim 😊. Hoping to see more channels in the future, this hobby deserves so much more attention. 🤞

[@buzzawuzza3743]

Your videos are fun and informative. I've recently given away a large part of my stamp collection and am starting in a new direction with fewer and more personally meaningful stamps. Some of this has come from being inspired by you. Best to you from out here in Phoenix

[@ExploringStamps]

Oh I love that!! Eventually I want to do the same, and have a small and very defined collection, one that is super meaningful... but I am a long way from that at the moment, and just enjoying for of the accumulating phase I guess 😊. Thanks Buzza Wuzza!!

[@ebrand3673]

So interesting to see your process. I found your channel after only slightly getting into to philately, but have been binging your seasonal episodes while browsing eBay night after night. The history and interesting background information you present has absolutely increased my enjoyment of stamp collecting! Thank you for the effort you put in to create top-notch content.

[@ExploringStamps]

😊Glad you found it interesting. Thank you SO much for watching the episodes and interacting with the channel, its what keeps me going :D !!

[@slugore]

Fantastic overview. I appreciate how much work you put into your videos. They are always top quality that I thoroughly enjoy.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you 😊. It is good to see that you enjoyed the overview. I am working on my next video today, so stay tuned.

[@kelvidaniels9417]

I'm even more impressed with these videos after watching this. Wow! Your dedication is something to be admired. Please keep up this amazing work. - Kelvi.

[@ExploringStamps]

😊 Thanks Kelvi! More videos coming soon!

[@vasantpednekar3797]

Appreciate the effort and time of yours you put up to make these videos 🙌🙌

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you very much 😊 🙏

[@olivermiller2013]

Thank you for showing. I had no idea how much work it is. Even with your experience it takes a lot of effort. And it explains, why the quality of your videos is so high.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Oliver :)

[@RichardPhilatelist]

The singing bear made my day! Thank you Laura😂. And of course thank you Graham for another great episode. The stamps are beautiful!

[@kettleofseveralfish]

Great stuff! I was doing a heap of video production for my work’s social media for a while (performing and editing), and really enjoyed it-you really get into a kind of ‘flow’ state while editing, I find. Unfortunately, we just didn’t have the time and resources to keep it up since we’re such a small team and had other priorities. It always amazed me how much time it took even to make our as-simple-as-possible 90sec vids, so I’m completely in awe of the time and effort that goes into the Exploring Stamps videos. Love all the diy camera rigging.

[@ExploringStamps]

It is really fun, isn’t it? 😊 I can see how it can be a full time job that companies hire for, it really does take focus and time to produce content. Glad you enjoyed the video, thanks so much for your support 🙌

[@stampsforgramps1268]

Another great video from the Exploring Stamps team. Enjoyed your behind-the-scenes look at your production techniques. Keep up the great work. Looking forward to future releases.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you 😊. Working on a more 'stampy' video script now...stay tuned!!

[@isabelleisles7649]

I guess I never realized how much effort is put into your videos... I knew it was a lot, just not this much. WOW very impressive! Thank you for all that you do in the hobby. 💛

[@ExploringStamps]

😊 Thanks Isabelle!!

[@mattgibbs73]

Great overview of your creation process Graham! I enjoyed a quick light hearted look along with your useful advice. 👍

[@ExploringStamps]

Glad you enjoyed it :). Thanks for watching!

[@yvescote2808]

Expert pilately that's what you are! Wow this very good job and episode. ❤

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you 🙏 😊

[@pinkgirl1x]

wow never thought of how much time and effort put into these videos. Thanks, Graham for doing what you are for the philatelic society and encouraging others as well.

[@ExploringStamps]

😊 That means a lot, thank you so much!! It is great to viewers like you appreciate the content and effort 🤗

[@OhhowHelovesus777]

A big thank you for all your effort in these videos, your quality in presentation and the information you give are greatly appreciated.

[@pennyfodca7752]

Outstanding!! This really shows how passionate you are about the hobby. Looking forward to new episodes!

[@ExploringStamps]

Thanks Penny 😊. More vids coming soon!!

[@thedigitalphilatelist]

Amazing episode with some great guidance. Lots of information for new channels to take their channels up a notch!

[@ExploringStamps]

Thanks DigiP 😊. I really do hope this helps new and future philatelic channels. Thanks for all you do!

[@dr.shahadathossain6658]

It's very pleasant to watch,how you working behind the camera.Keep up the good work.Happy collecting.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you 😊. It is great to see that you enjoyed the episode, more 'stampy' videos to come, stay tuned!

[@carolinegreenwell9086]

fascinating how much preparation and planning you put in - but the end result looks so spontaneous

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Caroline 😊

[@topsail2]

Excellent Graham...deleightfull with plenty of knowledge..you are thé best..and I liked a lot this styly épisode 👍

[@Norge_collector_history]

This is very interesting and will hopefully be helpful whith my upcoming lives. Thank you for producing this free videos for us all to see.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you! 😊 glad it was helpful.

[@derekclarke2430]

Thank you Graham for another great episode. I'm tempted to give it a go but I will have to find the time to do it. You never know the Astro Space Stamp Society might start one.

[@ExploringStamps]

You are very welcome, Derek 😊 I would love to see the Astro Space Stamp Society get into video content, that would be amazing 😁. Thanks so much for watching!

[@davidcolombier5673]

Graham, very interesting video on how you make stamps videos. I hope to see more of your videos. David

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you David, more videos to come soon. :)

[@dennyd4848]

At work, I used to call PowerPoint - “Poor Man’s Publisher”. It’s fantastically simple for simple graphic work…and even adding text! 👌 🖥️

[@ExploringStamps]

Absolutely!! 😂 Being able to quickly crop, add text and shapes, even sharpen the contrast and mess with colors... PowerPoint does all this without having to learn a new tool. Its perfect for me. :)

[@FeaturePhilately]

A fantastic video as always! It's crazy the level of thought that you put behind every aspect of a video. I've learned quite a lot from our talk at Capex 22 regarding video making but I have learned even more in this video. Hopefully I can put some of this advice into use for my future content! Thanks Graham!

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Michael 😊. We are all learning from each other! Every channel is bringing something new and fresh to the table, and we are all experimenting as we go. Keep up the excellent work!

[@danstars1]

Interesting to see how much time and effort you put into each video and it certainly shows. Keep up the quality content.

[@ExploringStamps]

😊. Glad you found it interesting, thank you so much for the kind words and support, and of course for watching the channel!

[@TheStampBox]

Thank you for a great episode, Graham. Greetings from Brisbane, Australia. I had no idea that the productions process was so complex and time consuming, and appreciate the effort you have put in. I have promoted your videos at our stamp club here. Keep up the good work. Denis

[@ExploringStamps]

Oh wonderful!!. Thank you so much for sharing at your club, all views mean a lot! 😊. Thanks for watching in Brisbane, Denis.

[@iainmalcolm9583]

Seemed to have missed this one being uploaded. I Always appreciate the effort you go to to make it look 'effortless'.

[@leslieselby5270]

Great episode. Interesting to see the process that you follow when producing these videos, and its great that every one is different from the others. As you know, my favorite video was the third episode of the 3rd season when you looked at Zeppelin and airship stamps. I loved the set you built in your parents basement and thought the coffee in the "observation lounge" was a really nice touch. Thanks for all you do for philately

[@ExploringStamps]

Thanks Les 😊. Glad you found this one interesting, and of course the famous S3E3 episode. My father is particularly proud of his cameo as the coffee server hand, but I owe him a lot for allowing me to build a Zeppelin observation lounge in his house 😂. Thanks so much for watching!!

[@fareast_de]

A great educational vid, thanks for sharing ! SCADTA is well known over here among German philatelists because of it´s origin. Some of these covers, depending on the used stamps and the destination, can be very pricey. Greets from GER, U.

[@ExploringStamps]

I noticed that!! Some are super pricey!😮 It really is an interesting topic and aspect of philately to explore, and I enjoyed briefly learning about it. Thanks so much for watching 😊

[@KristiaanVanErmengem]

Interesting. I always wondered how you made those perfect postmarks and the many cool effects.

[@ExploringStamps]

😊 Thank you! Now you know!! PowerPoint is my secret weapon.

[@mookatgirl7680]

That was soooo awesome and informative 👏🏻👍🏽 🎥 📷📱 Eddy and I learned so much! Eddy is hoping to start his own channel later in the year focusing on FDCs and covers in general. Oh, the philatelic gift is amazing ☺️ thanks again for all your hard work, we really appreciate it 🙏🏼😊

[@ExploringStamps]

Wow thank you for the kind words!! When Eddy starts the channel, be sure to let me know so that I can subscribe 😃 nobody is focusing on FDCs at the moment, a covers channel is a great idea!!

[@mookatgirl7680]

Thank you so much! We’ll be sure to let you know when he starts. Now that I’ve told you he has to do it 😅 I’ll help nudge him 😂

[@brianparker8332]

Very interesting Graham. As ever something that appears simple in presentation actually has a ton of work behind it. I'm torn because while it's fascinating to know how you do it a little of the magic is gone!

[@RichardPhilatelist]

Thank you so much for sharing the behind-the-scenes of exploring stamps. I learned a lot, including your passion for philately and your channel. Similar to you, I have used PowerPoint a lot for animation and thumbnails. I didn't realise how useful PowerPoint could be before! 😂

[@ExploringStamps]

PowerPoint is the MVP.... Photoshop who? 😂 Haha thanks Richard, you inspired this episode.

[@christophersmeltser6564]

Wow, I never knew the amount of work you put into your videos. It makes sense though because they are amazing quality content. I really appreciate your channel.

[@JCPhilately]

Thank you so much Graham for sharing this episode. I really enjoy watching your videos. This episode will surely help me. I currently use Adobe Premiere Rush and trying to learn and improve my video editing skills. You and Richard inspired me to create my YT channel for Philately. Looking forward to more episodes from your end. Appreciate it!!😊

[@ExploringStamps]

You are very welcome, glad that you are enjoying the videos. I also just subscribed to your channel and look forward to watching your episodes!! 😊

[@hirschy10]

Its great to see how you make the videos, but i love the bloopers they are so 🤣🤣🤣 like sometimes you see at the end off movies . AUAUAU😎

[@ExploringStamps]

😂 Maybe I'll do a bloopers episode one day.... I certainly have a lot per episode! LOL thanks for watching Mark

[@SharePointFly]

Thanks for sharing. This is really going to help since I working on my first video now!

[@ExploringStamps]

Excellent!! So glad you found this helpful 😊

[@firewall68]

Such an informative video. You are really a celebrity in the Philatelic world. I have learned so much about Philately just by watching your videos. You are "Simply the Best"!

[@ExploringStamps]

You are too kind, Mila 😊. Thank you so much, glad you are enjoying the channel.

[@kevinhans189]

Wow, fantastic video! Thank you for sharing and for all the effort you put into creating them. Suggestion for a future video - I would really like to see more about how you use Power Point to create the postmark images.

[@mrbharathkiran.1508]

Congratulations for reaching 30+k subs

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you 😊

[@carloslizzelaya]

This was fascinating! One of your best so far!

[@ExploringStamps]

Wow thank you Carlos 😊

[@theturtletagger]

As a young person new to this hobby, let me tell you that your videos went a long way toward getting me hooked. The high level of quality made the world of stamps seem so thoroughly gripping, the stories you tell are simultaneously entertaining and richly informative. Not only have I learned a lot from you as a beginner, I've also been captivated

[@ExploringStamps]

😊 Thank you Zach!! It really does mean a lot to know that viewers appreciate the channel and content. So good to see that you have been enjoying the videos and learning from them. Thanks for your support!!

[@aldragon09]

I enjoy watching your videos and appreciate the effort you put into them

[@livelifefullest7884]

Excellent video. I remember in one of your video I had asked to make a video on your content creation and here it is. Happy to see. I use filmora and trying to figure out how to animate like plane flying out of the stamp. Keep continuing your good work 👏

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you 😊. Yes I remember getting a few asks including yours, so glad that you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!!

[@IllBeStamped]

This was great Graham! As an aspiring filmmaker, it is neat to see other peoples process for filming, especially when it comes to stamps. Great powerpoint tip for making the stamp pop and getting those postmarks out of the stamp. I always did wonder how you did that... Anyways take care, and thanks for all the work you put into your videos! - X

[@jonathanparag]

Excellent presentation..proud to be your subscribers 😂

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you so much, Jonathan! I'm proud to have you as a subscriber 😊

[@philatelovely5748]

What a fantastic insight into how you produce your videos. As someone that is just getting started in making videos I found this super useful, plus the roundtable event was awesome too. I find that video editing software can be quite challenging at first, but once you dive in it can be relatively easy to use. I was using LumaFusion but found that to be quite tricky, I’m now using iMovie and it seems to work for me. Cracking episode 👍👍👍

[@ExploringStamps]

iMovie is a favorite for many folks, it’s a brilliant piece of software once you get familiar with it. So glad you found the video helpful John, I’m looking forward to your next vids 😃🙌

[@orivaa]

Awesome of you to share the whole creative process! It's a lot of work. Btw, on macOS you can right click a picture and select "Remove Background" under "Quick Actions" (at least if you have the latest version).

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Oliver 😊. Interesting!! I don't seem to have that 'remove background' ability under quick actions... only "markup"... I think I am behind with updates, fingers crossed that I get that feature, that would be cool!!

[@orivaa]

@@ExploringStamps My bad, it seems an M1/M2 mac is needed for this feature to work 😔

[@stampconnectwithravi]

Nice and informative, Graham. Thanks for making this video. I do have a YT channel, but have just couple of videos in it. I use ActivePresenter for video creation/editing and scan the philatelic items instead of camera-capture. Your videos inspire me to create more stamp videos.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you 😊. A scanner is of course much better than a camera photo for getting the crisp image quality, so that is excellent. I have heard about ActivePresenter but I haven’t looked into it 🤔. Just subscribed to your channel, looking forward to watching your content 😃

[@stampconnectwithravi]

@@ExploringStamps Thank you!

[@40belowful]

Very cool video again Graham :):) Hi again from Alaska.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you for watching in Alaska 😊!

[@dario5651]

Interesting video📬 fun to know how you make all those videos!

[@ExploringStamps]

Thanks Dario 😊 glad you found it interesting

[@umasankarbanerjee3593]

Excellent video

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you 😊

[@aparajitac6737]

How eagerly we wait for your videos. Next 25 mins is gonna be pure bliss. Love from india.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you . Hope that you enjoyed it.😊

[@aparajitac6737]

We loved it. We wait for our work to end and then me and my wife watch it together. You and Laura are such an inspiration. Thank you for taking out time to reply to each one of us in the comments section. Cheers ♥️

[@petercollingwood522]

Very interesting Graham. I just subscrbed to your Zulu war Channel. As a member of OMRS which has quite a few Zulu War aficionados in it I look forward to exploring everything on there. I'm sorry I only got to visit the battlefields once. It would be so much more rewarding doing so now with the beniffet of all that the internet brings to the situation. Also really wish I could get to the show in July but I'm just not in a position to do so. Another really awesome video. You've excelled yourself again.

[@ExploringStamps]

Thanks Peter! I also only visited the battlefields once when I was a lot younger, and would thoroughly enjoy doing it again with my more mature appreciation for history. I have been enjoying the Clash of Empires exhibition work leading up to the event, and perhaps I will need to find a way to go back to the battlefields at some point. Thanks for subscribing to the channel :D

[@SomniferousAlmondEyes]

Yay! I always wondered about this and how long it takes you. Cant wait for the blooper episode.

[@ExploringStamps]

Lol I have hours of bloopers 😂 🤔 hmm maybe I’ll have to find the best ones for an episode.

[@CheersMyDudes]

You’re right! There is sooo little info online about stamps and yet I really think they’re going to boom in popularity and value in the future.

[@ExploringStamps]

The Golden Age is on its way!! 🤞😊

[@CheersMyDudes]

I hope so! I can see so much potential for stamp related content, I’m just not interested in putting myself out there personally! Is anyone doing a video podcast? I’d love to see a podcast in a kind of studio setting, either with a couple of hosts or different guests each episode. It was interesting to see the behind the scenes, I was very impressed with the pipe+tape camera rig lol!

[@B1ngB0ngg]

Hi Graham! My nephew and I were taking a look through one of my stamp albums when he asked me why it was always older stamps that were rarer and more valuable. I explained to him why but then got curious myself, as I've never really thought of any stamps issued within the past thirty years which have become rare or valuable for whatever reason. I tried to do a quick search and learned about both the Yellow and Colour Error Shifted 1998 Uncle Sam Hat "H" rate stamps, but was unsuccessful at finding anything further. Would you perhaps consider this topic for a video in the future? It would be really interesting to see which stamps released recently have become rare and what interesting stories are behind them. In any case, both my nephew and myself love your videos and watch them any time we can get together. Take care!

[@NisargSutaria]

Awesome :-)

[@ExploringStamps]

😊 thank you

[@FunAtHomeCollectibles]

Really interesting video mate - especially as you talk about how go about making videos. I feel ya ! Have an awesome day!💥From Fun At Home (Hot Wheels, Lego, Cards & collectables) 👍

[@kengilbride7182]

Glad your back I give you a LOT of credit for the amount of your time for making these videos. Hope you and your other half is doing great.looking forward to your next video. Happy Stamp Collecting

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Ken 😊 I’m finishing up the script for the next video now, hoping to film it soon, stay tuned!

[@kengilbride7182]

@@ExploringStamps Have a great Memorial Day

[@lilz6654]

Love your channel Graham :)

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Liz 😊

[@kflowers]

Amazing video. I’m thinking of starting a channel but very anxious about looking like a doofus. Your hints make it feel less scary, except for the time involved

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you Ken. Yes absolutely consider starting a channel. I still feel like a doofus on screen, so that anxiety is completely normal!! Start small, the time commitment doesn't have to be overwhelming, and build up from there.

[@kflowers]

@@ExploringStamps I appreciate the encouragement. I'll at least do a first one.

[@markusbose7786]

😂 "Gorilla Pod" is such a fun name for a piece of equipment. Looks more like a war of the world's Martian Tripod.

[@markusbose7786]

And "Shotgun" microphones... Gorillas and shotguns, this filming industry is some dangerous stuff.

[@ExploringStamps]

And I didn't show you my "Dead Cat"... another wonderful expression in the film industry 😂

[@t3nsets]

lol at the hair thing. two hours my goodness, i think id be like o well. crazy extremes, yes, well done! I am thinking of doing twitch, ive been getting into it lately and have thousands of stamps for each country and sort them in albums per scott. Really appreciate the insight, I am in China now but headed back to the homebase soon, so hopefully I will get into it and have more questions for you then. Cheers.

[@ExploringStamps]

Oh fantastic, I don't think there is much of a stamp presence on Twitch at the moment, so any efforts that you do will be pioneering for the hobby. Please keep us updated :D Thanks so much for your support!

[@t3nsets]

@@ExploringStamps Will do. Cheers :)

[@rickwilmot9127]

Have you thought about the stamps of Eva Peron, Graham? There is plenty out there to make an episode, including the book by José Campoy Fernández. (2015). BTW, thanks to one of your videos I have exchanged some really good stuff with your friend Jessica in Brazil.

[@tedtalksstamps]

Great episode, Graham, with useful tips. Only thing, though, like learning a magician’s secret, I spent the rest of the video, after your explanation, trying to detect a strand of hair. 😅

[@ExploringStamps]

😂🤣. Thanks Ted!! I once had a chocolate smudge on my mouth after sneaking a piece of cake in between shots…. I couldn’t remove that with the editor, and had to re-film a major portion of the vid. Ugh KZbinr problems 😂

[@tedtalksstamps]

@@ExploringStamps 🤣

[@StampCatStamps]

Oh you guys 😂. So I had a MAJOR hair problem when I filmed my portion of the Swap & Research challenge with @richardphilatelist! Except in the video take I had filmed myself putting the stamps into an envelope and sealed it shut, so I could not go back and re-film it! I ended up weirdly cropping out the top of my head from most of the scene and praying no one would really notice. 😅 Thanks for sharing your tips and tricks, Graham!

[@ExploringStamps]

@@StampCatStamps I’ve done the ‘top crop’ before 😂!!

[@ThriftShopHustler]

Good to see you Graham 🎉

[@ExploringStamps]

Good to see you as well 😊. Thanks for watching!!

[@filipmenart]

Oh no! Graham doesn't film the table and himself at the same time!? MY LIFE HAS BEEN A LIE

[@ExploringStamps]

😂 Nooo! Well not a lie, just a tiny fib.

[@JessicaCristinaMourao]

🎉

[@ExploringStamps]

😊🕺

[@henrys3629]

I thought you were going to shop stamps that say "filler" like Hungary. I'm the only one under 50 at the local stamp show finding amazing history in the 25c envelope/postcard box. Some of that stuff "EBAYS" for $5-20, but I don't care, except for the extreme savings.

[@ExploringStamps]

I love the dollar boxes at stamp shows! The historical gems you can find are priceless. 🙌

[@erickleyser1985]

Estoy por armar contenido filatelico y me acabas de armar el road map 😊 lo máximo 😅

[@ExploringStamps]

😊 ¡Maravilloso! Me alegro de que este video pueda ayudar, muchas gracias por verlo.

[@GreatStampAdventure]

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU GRAHAM!!!! As you know I just started out with my stamp channel. It is indeed a steep learning curve and I frequently cringe about the result, but one just have to force yourself to put it "out there". I learned a tremendous lot from your generous! explanation of your video making process! Thank you! I am shamelessly going to use some of your procedures, particularly your overhead ramp and the type of microphone. I still use my cell phone microphone and cell phone camera! I also use Powerpoint, still extensively, because I also used it in my work, and further I use Davinci Resolve for the video editing which I find very powerful and of which I am still barely scratching the surface. I find it VERY hard to speak on camera, and was shocked to hear how bad and erroneous my spoken English is! :0 QUESTIONS PLEASE: how do you manage to match up your shots of the physical activity with what your audio voice and especially the content of your speaking? How do you manage to get your reading of text so natural? Sorry for the long comment, but I really got so, so much from your "filler"!

[@ExploringStamps]

Hi Charnie 😊. You are so very welcome! Yes lets see if I can answer all of your excellent questions. - Firstly, I feel your pain with the steep learning curve, this is one of the biggest barriers for new content creators. BUT based off of your last few vids, especially the NZ stamp show, I'd say that you have broken through the barrier quite well! 👏 - Great to see that you are using DaVince Resolve, I've been looking for feedback from any other philatelists...glad to see that you are enjoying it. - I love that I am not alone with PowerPoint, it turns out 'Richard Philatelist' also uses it. Now that is 3 of us 😂 - Speaking on camera is super scary, I totally know what you are experiencing when seeing yourself. Firstly, just be aware that you will be your harshest critic. Secondly, "embrace the cringe"...you will improve the more you see yourself, and naturally make changes to how you speak, talk to the camera, etc... It's actually a common technique for improving public speaking, to watch yourself on video and allow yourself to improve from what you see. - "Reading the text so natural" is such a lovely comment, because it is something that I have always been struggling with. To not sound too robotic, I read the paragraph a few times before turning the camera on, and do my best at following my natural speaking rhythm...I also don't stress out about getting a paragraph complete without mistakes, I will pick up from where I make a mistake or tripped over a word, and will then splice lines that I got right together...its something that takes a while to get comfortable with, and I still have some improving to do. - I found that it is WAY easier to match the visual to the audio, and not the other way around...So if you have the opportunity to film physical stamps and add imagery to your video AFTER recording your audio, you can match the clips a lot better than trying to create the audio to match the video... You don't want to rush the audio, and this is why I film and edit the 'dialogue' first...the visual then can be adjusted to work with the audio. If you need to extend a visual as the audio is too short, you can break it up with some music.... Let me know if this helps or if you have more questions about it, I'd be happy to speak to it more 😊.

[@GreatStampAdventure]

@@ExploringStamps Thanks again so much and for your kind answers and feedback! - The barrier is still very difficult for me. :) I like Richard Philatelist's videos as well. Very clearly and well ordered and thought out script neatly presented. Maybe PowerPoint has some power magic. 😉😜😆 - The single times I tried "voice over" I did the audio after the visuals, matching that up, and it was very difficult. I am DEFINITELY going to try the other way around when I need it again. I think I should also try to "separate" audio from visuals and not do the two together. I will try hard to find my own style. Thanks! - I talk my voice over as well as all other audio without seeing myself! That doesn't make it easier. I will try to set up so that I actually see myself - I am going to ask about that again with the other separate question. Maybe seeing myself will help me to concentrate better! - Your reading is REALLY perfectly natural. I didn't suspect you are reading. I just will have to be more attentive and not just rush through and do it once! I am sure then one will improve as well. - Your video and answers truly helped me a lot! I do try to learn from other KZbin videos, but one has to go through a lot of stuff that are not always so helpful. - Thanks, Graham!!!!

[@JanDoggen]

Now I understand why your philately channel is the #1 regarding quality. BTW your reviewers missed the pixel blocks around 23:50-24:10 ;-) Was that the autofocus zooming?

[@ExploringStamps]

😂 Yep thats due to the autofocus! The viewers wouldn't have caught that!! Good catch

[@peterhowell7657]

Very interesting. Without being too nosy, what is your day job that allows you all this time to make these videos?

[@ExploringStamps]

Sure! I work in Project Management for Pharmaceuticals. It doesn't allow me to make the videos during work hours of course, the filming prep and edits take place during the evenings while the filming itself takes up weekends 😬😊

[@venkatmn123]

It was full of helpful tips.. How do you manage music in your videos? Can one purchase the trademark music? This was missing in the Video.

[@ExploringStamps]

Glad you found it helpful 😊. Great question. Yes you will need to either utilize copyright free music, or purchase a license. KZbin has a library with copyright free music, and you can use that music for free. Also songs that are of a certain age are part of the media commons and available for use, I think 70 years or so past the musicians death (I need to fact check that). Purchasing music can be done from several different sites out there such as shutterstock, pond5, etc. when uploading the video to KZbin , you may have to ‘dispute’ a copyright claim that gets triggered because of your music, you would then use the license and receipt information when disputing it to get the claim released.

[@rudebox5688]

Hi Graham, Your videos are great and really helped me get back into philately. Can I ask, do you have issues being demonetised when you show stamps from the german reich, or those stamps you showed from iran and north korea? Thanks

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you 😊 glad you enjoy the channel and found it helpful. So far, (knock on wood) I haven’t had any demonetized issues or suspended videos from showing the stamps. I have had a few irate comments and angry viewers who have reported the content (just a small few), but that is all right now.

[@grytlandsferga]

can you make a video about how to make that smartphone - camera holder thing?

[@ExploringStamps]

Perhaps I will!!

[@GreatStampAdventure]

Sorry, Graham, one more question. I will ask it here, just maybe someone else might also learn something from the answer. QUESTION: can you see what you are filming in the non-audio clips of things you do on your desk, while you are filming them, and how do you do it? THANKS!

[@ExploringStamps]

Of course Charnie! Love the questions. 😊. So the short answer is yes, during the scripting process I lay out the stamps (if I have them all) and that actually supports the building of my script. I know that I will be talking about these stamps, this cover, followed by that stamp and so on. If I physically have the stamps, then I could have them on my desk during filming.. at this point they become a prop... so I am not just reciting the paragraph from the script, but use a prop that I talk to and look down and interact with while talking to the camera... I hate using this word, but its a little bit of 'acting' that brings the dialogue portion to life. Let me know if that answers your question :)

[@GreatStampAdventure]

@@ExploringStamps Your answer already helps and answer even more questions. However, I actually wondered if you can see the actual visuals your are filming while you are filming it. I watched your video again (will probably do it a few times more 😃) and saw at one stage you could see yourself on the cell phone screen by taking the visuals with the front camera? ... I have a huge problem with the fact that I cannot see what I am filming. For instance, at the moment I still bring a stamp up to the camera to enlarge it. I do it blindly, not knowing where the stamp is and whether it is actually in focus. I take the "down" videos with the "back" (main) camera, not the selfie camera, and the cellphone screen is actually showing up on the upper side of the cell phone (towards the ceiling), and I cannot see what I am filming. I guess I must find a way to project the cellphone screen visuals onto my laptop screen? ... Sorry, I am not explaining as good as you do!!!! I just wondered ... if you put your cellphone face down on the "ramp" to take visuals from above - can you see the actual video you are taking while taking it? Thanks so much, again.

[@ExploringStamps]

@@GreatStampAdventure oh I see 😁, YES I do see the visuals with my camera. With the DSLR, I am able to confirm that I am centered, correct zoom, in focus etc while filming, otherwise to your point you could be way off with the shot. This is the key feature I like about my DSLR, you can find much cheaper “point and shoot” cameras with the screen that flips forward to view while filming yourself, or you will need to somehow project the cellphone image onto your laptop. Always better to film NOT using the selfie camera, as it typically is less quality than the actual cell camera in the front. When I’m filming stamps with my camera phone, the camera is always pointed down so that I can see exactly what I am filming from above, and adjust the focus and positioning of the item. One trap to avoid, don’t watch yourself in the camera screen when filming, it is super tempting, always look at the lens. I benefit from poor vision, so I confirm the shot is good with my glasses on, then take them off and look towards the lens, and I can’t get distracted by the screen because it’s just a big blur 😆

[@GreatStampAdventure]

@@ExploringStamps Perfect answer, from where I am viewing it. 😀 ... I would have squinted my eyes and tried to find myself in the blur. 😆🤣Really thanks, Graham. Some set up work for me. I cannot continue without seeing what is being filmed. Sloppy!

[@happybunny1329]

How do you address the legalities of showing the stamps in your videos? Many stamps are copyrighted (primary copyright with the postal service, secondary copyright with the artist/photographer/subject/estate of the image), so how do you go about obtaining necessary legal permissions and rights to show the stamps? Who do you contact? This is the only thing I have concerns about in respect of setting up a channel and, therefore, the only obstacle. Thanks. :)

[@ExploringStamps]

It is a good question! Something that I had to read quite a bit into prior to making these videos. For the most part, and related to the style of most of the Philatelic KZbin content out there, we are protected by the 'Fair Use' legal doctrine. This allows you to make commentary about, discuss, teach and even criticize to a point, an artists work while showing it but not 'using it'. I have found that the US parameters for Fair Use seems to be a lot simpler than the EU or the 'Fair Dealing' doctrine of other countries, but stamps for the most part are safe to showcase and talk about on video (and other social media). You can look at KZbin's guidelines here: support.google.com/youtube/answer/9783148?hl=en Music on the other hand provides an example of how 'Fair Use' isn't applicable. When I use music in my videos, I am actually using the art that the musician created, and enhancing my 'artwork' of a video with it... so I have to purchase a license for music in my video or be faced with copyright issues, same with photographs. My use of stamps however is more aligned to the subject of discussion, and falls into one of the categories of 'Fair Use'. I hope this helps, let me know if you start a channel, I would be one of your first subscribers 😊

[@happybunny1329]

@@ExploringStamps Thank you so much for sharing your experience of this. It is very helpful to know how others approach this for their channels, because copyright law really is a minefield (especially here in UK). I hadn't thought about KZbin being an additional gatekeeper, because they also have the ability to take down videos if they are contacted by a copyright holder, giving me a little more peace of mind. I would be doing discussive videos about research on stamps, so I could certainly aim to fit it into Fair Use. Your video and kind advice are very helpful, as I have been thinking about a channel for months, but so hesitant mainly from concerns about getting into legal hot water. I will now start to look into it more seriously. Many thanks. :)

[@mattblaxk]

Can you do a video of South African stamps 🇿🇦 please 🙏

[@ExploringStamps]

Would love to. I’ve already done an episode at Groot Constantia for a season 2 finale, check it out if you haven’t already 🇿🇦 😊

[@johnfisher3929]

I would just like to say thanks. I have been curious about how you make your videos and now I know. But I have a question: Do you ever actually sleep?

[@ExploringStamps]

Thank you John 😊. Yeah sleep is an issue, but I'm trying to get better at it 😂. Thanks so much for watching!

[@TheYoungCollector]

Do you know any good free editing programs for mobile devices?

[@rooty]

Um you wrote Clash of Clans in the description lol

[@ExploringStamps]

😂 it’s a running joke I have with the exhibitionists, I keep calling it that!!

[@tomfabian9115]

Wow🎥,yikes🤔I'll stick with my 30 second tiktoks😁

[@ExploringStamps]

😊 TikTok is the new frontier! We need more stamp TikTok accounts, so if you enjoy it definitely keep it up 🙌