My partner insists that we make stupid social media videos as a couple. I think they're obnoxious and a waste of time but he keeps trying to get me into it.
Yeah, those can be pretty cringeworthy. I’ve never understood why people feel their relationship should be a social media show just because they have phones. It makes me wonder how much time they appreciate with each other if they’re always thinking, “This would make a great video.”
So, it sounds like this is the situation you’re in. Congrats.
Couples tend to do these for attention or for money – or for both. I wonder what his purpose is. Does he just want a viral video online? Is this something he’s trying to make into a side gig? A full-time gig? Is it to make people go, “Ah, that’s an adorable couple” and get the "likes" or clicks?
It would be interesting to stumble upon (and by that I mean coincidentally on purpose) with him some of the badly acted videos of other couples – the ones that have really fake setups – and say, “You actually find that entertaining?” True, he could look at the total number of views and comments and say that people obviously enjoy the content. You can also remind him that in five years when the fad of these pointless mini-reality-shows is done, the people will likely be viewed as idiots.
Having said that, if he’s wanting to create content for money – and he has a big enough audience – then it could be worthwhile. I’m not saying for you to be involved, but if there’s something in his life that an audience would find entertaining, then let him do his own content that doesn’t include you. And if he goes that route, don’t expect him to spend his social media profits with you. You can’t be a hypocrite!
Remember, there’s a way you can support his interest without being in front of the camera. You could encourage him by being the cameraperson or doing something behind the scenes. At least you’re involved, right? You could say, “I’ll be involved but not in the way we see those goofy couples embarrassing themselves.”
I also wanna be clear that he’s not asking you to make porn, right? That’s a whole new level! And potentially, income level!