Stock footage, and similarly, archive footage, library pictures and file footage are film or video footage that is not custom shot for use in a specific film or television program. Stock footage is of beneficial use to filmmakers as it is far cheaper than shooting new material. A single piece of stock footage is a "stock shot" or a "library shot".

Where can I acquire stock footage?

There are many ways to acquire stock footage; a partial list of websites to acquire such footage is available here.