The Top 101 Youtube Channels for Filmmakers

YouTube has emerged as an abundant new medium for aspiring filmmakers, offering a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration.

While there is a wide variety of filmmaking content available on YouTube, the difficulty is that there are many channels claiming to be about filmmaking when, in reality, they are about making YouTube vlogs.

Thus, our list focuses on channels that try to provide content about the art of filmmaking in a traditional sense—that is, making films with a cast and crew that are meant to be viewed in a theater, be it in a theatrical release or at a film festival.

In this Guide:

Each section will provide an in-depth look at our favorite channels in their respective categories, offering you a roadmap to enhance your filmmaking skills across all domains of the craft.

Film Production Channels

The art of visual storytelling lies at the heart of filmmaking, and these YouTube channels excel in teaching the craft's fundamental aspects. From narrative structure to cinematography techniques, these channels offer invaluable insights for aspiring filmmakers.

General Filmmaking Channels

Standard Story Company

Kent Lamm and his Standard Story Company channel have emerged as a resource for aspiring filmmakers. This YouTube channel offers helpful insights into the fundamental principles of storytelling, with a particular focus on writing and short film production.

D4Darious

D4Darious, run by Darious Britt, offers a unique perspective on independent filmmaking. The channel covers in-depth discussions on film theory and technique, personal experiences from film productions, tips for aspiring directors and cinematographers, and more. Britt's honest and relatable approach resonates with many up-and-coming filmmakers.

MAKE. ART. NOW.

MAKE. ART. NOW. is a dynamic YouTube channel that serves as a catalyst for creative action in the filmmaking community. With its energetic approach and practical focus, this channel empowers aspiring filmmakers to overcome obstacles and start creating immediately.

In Depth Cine

In Depth Cine is a treasure trove for aspiring filmmakers looking to enhance their understanding of the technical and artistic aspects of cinema. The channel offers in-depth tutorials, gear reviews, and breakdowns of cinematography techniques that cater to both beginners and seasoned filmmakers. With an emphasis on exploring the nuances of lighting, shot composition, and camera movement, In Depth Cine equips viewers with the knowledge and inspiration to elevate their filmmaking craft.

Wolfcrow

Wolfcrow offers a more technical perspective on filmmaking. The channel covers:

Detailed explanations of camera sensors and technology
Comparisons of different camera systems
Insights into advanced cinematography techniques

This channel is perfect for those who want to delve deep into the technical aspects of filmmaking.

The Film Look

The Film Look focuses on helping indie filmmakers achieve professional results. Their practical advice is especially helpful for those working on short film projects.

KatyJoyFilms

Katy Joy is an independent, low-budget filmmaker from Seattle who openly shares her journey of creating short films.

The business of Indie Filmmaking

Indie Film Hustle

Indie Film Hustle caters specifically to independent filmmakers, with interviews with successful indie directors and producers and strategies for low-budget film production. This channel is particularly valuable for those looking to navigate the challenging landscape of independent filmmaking.

J. Horton Films

J Horton's channel provides a candid and insightful perspective on the independent filmmaking process. Aspiring filmmakers will find valuable content on topics such as scriptwriting, directing, and navigating the film distribution landscape. With a focus on practical advice and real-world experiences, J Horton shares lessons learned from his own journey in the film industry, making it an essential resource for those looking to make their mark in independent cinema.

Cinematography / Lighting / Grip

These YouTube channels have a focus on cinematography and/or grip and lighting skills.

Lewis Potts

Known for his engaging tutorials and insightful breakdowns of popular movie scenes, Lewis Potts helps aspiring cinematographers and filmmakers enhance their lighting and camera skills and to better understand the intricacies of visual storytelling.

PD Mokry

With a focus on enhancing production value for small, low-budget crews, PD Mokry equips filmmakers with the tools and insights needed to produce compelling and professional-looking results on a budget.

Blaine Westropp

Blaine Westropp's YouTube channel is a must for aspiring filmmakers seeking practical advice and creative motivation. Known for sharing his personal filmmaking journey, Blaine offers tutorials, behind-the-scenes insights, and tips on leveraging technology to enhance storytelling.

Filmmakers Academy

Filmmakers Academy, formerly known as Hurlbut Visuals, offers professional-level insights into cinematography as well as other filmmaking disciplines. Their content is particularly valuable for those aspiring to work on larger productions.

Grip Tips

Grip Tips focuses on the often-overlooked art of grip work in film production. This channel is invaluable for those interested in the technical side of on-set operations.

Aputure

Aputure's channel is a must-watch for anyone interested in film lighting and cinematography. Their content is invaluable for understanding the nuances of cinematic lighting.

Wandering DP

Wandering DP is an essential YouTube channel for filmmakers who want to delve deeper into the art of cinematography. Focusing on the technical aspects of visual storytelling, the channel offers comprehensive breakdowns of lighting setups, camera techniques, and scene compositions.

Misc. Film Production Channels

Media Division

Media Division provides entertaining deep dives into filmmaking gear, the creation of obscure film tools, and the recreations of famous scenes from master filmmakers.

Scott Prop and Roll

Scott Prop and Roll is a unique channel dedicated to the creative world of prop making, special effects, and set design. Aspiring filmmakers and enthusiasts alike will find inspiration in Scott's detailed tutorials and behind-the-scenes looks at how to create compelling and realistic props and effects on a budget.

TheSteadicamMan

TheSteadicamMan offers in-depth knowledge and expertise on the use of Steadicams and other stabilization techniques in filmmaking. Perfect for aspiring filmmakers eager to master smooth and dynamic camera movements, this channel provides tutorials, gear reviews, and professional tips that enhance production quality.

Audio & Music Channels

Sound Recording & Audio

Deity Microphones

While focused primarily on their own products, the Deity Microphones' channel includes a wide range of content and is essential for filmmakers looking to improve their sound quality. Their content highlights the often-overlooked importance of quality audio in video production.

Curtis Judd

Curtis Judd's YouTube channel is an invaluable resource for filmmakers who want to master audio production. Specializing in sound recording and post-production audio, Curtis provides in-depth reviews of audio gear, tutorials on sound techniques, and guidance on achieving high-quality audio in various filming environments. With a focus on demystifying the technical aspects of audio, Curtis Judd empowers filmmakers to enhance their projects with professional-level sound, ensuring their visual stories are accompanied by immersive and clear audio experiences.

In The Mix

In The Mix is a dynamic YouTube channel dedicated to the art of audio production in filmmaking. Offering tutorials and insights on sound design, mixing, and mastering, the channel caters to filmmakers seeking to elevate their audio game. Whether you're looking to craft compelling soundscapes or improve dialogue clarity, In The Mix provides practical techniques and expert tips that help you integrate impactful audio into your visual storytelling, creating a more immersive cinematic experience.

Thomas Boykin

Thomas Boykin's YouTube channel is a valuable resource for filmmakers interested in enhancing their audio skills. Focused on sound design and audio engineering, the channel provides tutorials, equipment reviews, and practical advice for achieving professional-quality sound. With an emphasis on the importance of audio in storytelling, Thomas Boykin helps filmmakers understand how to effectively capture and edit sound to complement and elevate their visual projects, ensuring a well-rounded cinematic experience.

Tom Efinger

Tom Efinger's YouTube channel is dedicated to the intricate world of audio post-production in filmmaking. With years of industry experience, Tom shares expert insights and tutorials on topics such as dialogue editing, sound effects, and mixing techniques. Aspiring filmmakers can learn how to create polished and professional audio tracks that enhance their films' storytelling and emotional impact. Tom's focus on high-quality audio makes his channel an essential resource for filmmakers aiming to produce sonically engaging content.

Alex Knickerbocker

With a background in professional sound production, Alex provides insights on creating immersive audio landscapes, capturing high-quality sound on set, and mastering post-production techniques. His tutorials and practical tips aim to help filmmakers elevate their audio game and ensure that every project sounds as good as it looks.

URSA Straps

URSA Straps are the makers of radio mic straps and accessories, and their channel is a nice combination of new product announcements, sound recording tutorials, and what's in your kit videos.

Film Scoring & Music

Mattias Holmgren

Mattias Holmgren's YouTube channel is a fantastic resource for filmmakers and composers interested in film scoring and music production. Known for his detailed tutorials and creative insights, Mattias explores topics ranging from composing original scores to using music software effectively.

Marc Jovani - Cinematic Composing

With an emphasis on creating powerful and emotive soundtracks, Marc offers tutorials, insights, and techniques for composing music that enhances cinematic storytelling. His channel provides valuable guidance on orchestration, thematic development, and using digital audio workstations, making it an indispensable tool for anyone looking to bring their film projects to life with compelling music.

Guy Michelmore

Guy Michelmore's YouTube channel is an authoritative guide for filmmakers and composers interested in the craft of film and television scoring. Known for his engaging teaching style and comprehensive tutorials, Guy covers a broad array of topics, from composing techniques and orchestration to the business side of music production.

Jonas Friedman Music

Jonas Friedman offers insightful tutorials on composition techniques, music theory, and the use of digital audio workstations to create compelling film scores. His practical advice and creative tips help aspiring composers craft music that enhances cinematic storytelling, making it an invaluable resource for those looking to integrate music deeply into their film projects.

Zethu Mashika

Zethu Mashika's YouTube channel provides an engaging and insightful look into the art of composing music for film and television. Aspiring filmmakers and composers can learn how to develop their unique sound and effectively incorporate music into their projects, making this channel a valuable resource for anyone passionate about film scoring.

Dan Keen Music

Dan Keen Music is an inspiring YouTube channel dedicated to the nuances of film scoring and music composition. Aspiring composers and filmmakers will find valuable guidance in crafting music that enhances the emotional depth and narrative impact of their films.

Ryan Leach

Offering a wealth of knowledge through tutorials and industry insights, Ryan Leach provides guidance on composing memorable and impactful scores that elevate cinematic storytelling. His channel covers techniques in orchestration, thematic development, and music production, helping aspiring composers create soundtracks that resonate with audiences and enhance the narrative of their film projects.

Filmmaking Gear Channels

Filmmaking gear reviews and news channels easily make up the bulk of the filmmaking channels on YouTube. We've curated a list of our favorite channels that we find to be trustworthy and informative.

Film Gear Reviews and News

Philip Bloom

Philip Bloom's channel is a treasure trove for cinematographers and videographers. Known for his cinematic style and poetic reviews, Bloom offers:

In-depth camera and lens reviews
Tutorials on achieving cinematic looks
Behind-the-scenes of his professional projects

His practical approach and real-world experiences make his content particularly valuable for aspiring filmmakers.

Gerald Undone

Gerald Undone is a trusted resource for filmmakers and content creators looking to make informed decisions about filmmaking gear and technology. Known for his extremely thorough reviews and technical deep dives, Gerald helps aspiring filmmakers understand the capabilities and limitations of cameras, lenses, and other production equipment. His clear and detailed explanations, often accompanied by practical demonstrations, make complex topics accessible and actionable, empowering filmmakers to enhance their setups with confidence.

Potato Jet

Potato Jet offers a fun and informative take on video gear and production techniques. Their lighthearted approach makes technical information accessible to a wide audience.

DSLRguide

DSLRguide, run by Simon Cade, provides thoughtful insights into the art and technique of filmmaking. Cade's reflective approach encourages viewers to think critically about their filmmaking process.

DSLR Video Shooter

Caleb Pike's DSLR Video Shooter channel is a goldmine for budget-conscious filmmakers. Pike's practical approach helps filmmakers achieve professional results without breaking the bank.

Nice Lady Productions

Nice Lady Productions is a vibrant YouTube channel dedicated to empowering filmmakers with creativity and storytelling expertise. The channel offers an engaging mix of gear reviews, filmmaking tutorials, production insights, and creative inspiration, with a focus on making filmmaking accessible and fun.

YCImaging

YCImaging focuses on helping creators produce high-quality content with minimal gear. Their content is particularly useful for solo creators and can be applicable for small production teams.

Tom Antos

Tom Antos shares his wealth of experience as a professional filmmaker. Antos' content bridges the gap between amateur and professional filmmaking techniques.

Anamorphic on a Budget

Anamorphic on a Budget serves as an essential guide for filmmakers who want to achieve the cinematic look of anamorphic lenses without breaking the bank. This channel explores affordable options and DIY techniques for capturing that coveted widescreen, depth-enhancing aesthetic. With practical tips and gear recommendations, Anamorphic on a Budget provides aspiring filmmakers with the know-how to elevate their visual storytelling with stunning anamorphic effects, all while staying within budget constraints.

Ed Prosser

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned filmmaker, Ed Prosser offers practical advice, gear reviews, and inspiration to fuel your creative projects.

Luc Forsyth

Luc Forsyth is a renowned filmmaker and visual storyteller whose YouTube channel offers a deep dive into documentary filmmaking.

Joris Hermans

Joris shares tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, and personal experiences that guide aspiring filmmakers in developing their visual style. His channel emphasizes the art of capturing emotion and narrative through the lens, providing valuable lessons for those looking to tell compelling stories through film and photography.

OBP

OBP, or Off Beat Productions, is a dynamic YouTube channel that provides a fresh take on filmmaking and video production. Catering to independent filmmakers and creative enthusiasts, OBP offers a variety of content including tutorials, gear reviews, and innovative shooting techniques.

Connor McCaskill

Connor McCaskill's YouTube channel is a haven for filmmakers and videographers seeking to enhance their craft with artistic flair and technical precision.

Alex Zarfati

Alex Zarfati offers a YouTube channel rich with advice and inspiration for filmmakers aiming to master the art and technique of visual storytelling.

Womp Haus

The channel is ideal for those looking to enhance their storytelling through the innovative use of sound and visuals, making it a unique resource for film creatives.

Post Production Channels

These YouTube channels specialize in the intricate art of editing, color grading, visual effects, and sound design, offering invaluable resources for filmmakers looking to perfect their final product.

Editing Channels

This Guy Edits

Sven Pape's channel, This Guy Edits, provides a unique perspective from a working Hollywood editor:

Editing sessions with commentary
Psychological aspects of editing and storytelling
Breakdowns of editing techniques in successful films

Pape's insights offer valuable lessons in the nuanced art of film editing.

Valentina Vee

Valentina Vee's personal YouTube channel doesn't actually have any uploads, but she does link to the tutorials that she creates for other channels, such as Adobe and Frame.io. She's one of the best creators for learning Premiere Pro and other post-production software.

Creative Video Tips

Providing practical tutorials and techniques, the channel covers a range of topics, from video editing and motion graphics to color grading and effects. Aspiring filmmakers can learn how to polish their projects and add professional touches that elevate the final product.

Premiere Gal

Premiere Gal is a comprehensive YouTube channel focused on empowering filmmakers with the skills needed for efficient and creative video editing. Specializing in Adobe Premiere Pro and other editing software, the channel offers tutorials, workflows, and tips that help both beginners and advanced users enhance their post-production techniques.

The Editing Podcast

Co-hosted by industry professionals, the Editing Podcast delves into editing theory, tips, and tricks to help editors enhance their storytelling abilities. Covering a wide range of topics, from basic editing techniques to complex narrative structures, the Podcast provides valuable discussions that inspire and educate aspiring editors looking to refine their craft and deliver powerful visual stories.

Color Grading

Darren Mostyn

With extensive experience in the industry, Darren Mostyn offers detailed tutorials, tips, and demonstrations on how to achieve stunning visual aesthetics through color correction and grading techniques. His channel is particularly useful for those looking to enhance their projects' emotional and visual impact, providing aspiring filmmakers with the skills needed to create polished and professional-looking films.

Juan Melara

Juan doesn't update his channel often but when he does he provides some of the best color grading tutorials available anywhere.

Waqas Qazi

Waqas Qazi's YouTube channel is an authoritative resource for filmmakers seeking to elevate their color grading skills. Known for his in-depth tutorials and expert advice, Waqas covers a range of topics, including color correction, grading techniques, and workflows for industry-standard software like DaVinci Resolve.

Cullen Kelly

With a focus on professional workflows and creative grading strategies, Cullen Kelly provides insightful tutorials and demonstrations using software like DaVinci Resolve. His detailed explanations help aspiring colorists understand the nuances of color theory and its application in enhancing cinematic storytelling.

Joo.Works

Joo.Works is an inspiring YouTube channel dedicated to the art and science of color grading for filmmakers. Featuring tutorials, tips, and creative insights, the channel focuses on helping filmmakers achieve professional-grade aesthetics using easy to understand color correction and grading techniques.

VFX, Special Effects & Virtual Production

There is a huge difference between special effects and visual effects. However, many of the channels related to either topic tend to cross over into both disciplines. Thus, we combined them into one group for simplicity. Likewise there is a large overlap between VFX and the new arena of virtual production.

Special Effects YouTube Channels

Slice of Life

Slice of Life is an innovative YouTube channel that takes filmmakers behind the scenes of creating special effects with a mix of practical and digital techniques. Known for its DIY approach, the channel demonstrates how to achieve impressive and professional-looking effects on a budget.

Steve Ramsden

Focusing on both practical and digital effects, Steve Ramsden offers fun DIY tutorials on how to create compelling visuals that enhance film storytelling.

InCamera

The channel explores a range of techniques, from practical effects and props to innovative camera tricks. InCamera is perfect for filmmakers who want to achieve impressive effects in-camera, enhancing authenticity and creativity in their storytelling.

Cinecom

Cinecom stands out for its comprehensive approach to post-production tutorials. Their blend of creativity and technical expertise makes Cinecom an essential resource for filmmakers.

Shanks FX

Hosted by visual effects artist Joey Shanks, the channel provides tutorials and experiments that show filmmakers how to create captivating effects using everyday materials and practical methods. Shanks FX is ideal for filmmakers looking to infuse their projects with unique visuals and a touch of ingenuity, empowering them to push creative boundaries and bring their cinematic visions to life without heavy reliance on digital effects.

Visual Effects YouTube Channels

InLightVFX

Focused on digital effects, the channel offers tutorials, software tips, and industry insights to help creators produce high-quality VFX. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, InLightVFX provides the knowledge and resources needed to create stunning and realistic effects that enhance your film projects.

Alfie Vaughan

Known for breaking down complex VFX processes into accessible tutorials, Alfie Vaughan covers a range of topics from compositing to 3D animation using industry-standard software. His practical advice and creative techniques help both novice and experienced filmmakers enhance their visual storytelling with impressive digital effects.

Ian Hubert

Famous for his short, engaging tutorials called Lazy Tutorials, Ian Hubert demonstrates how to efficiently create stunning effects using Blender and other software, focusing on practical methods to achieve professional results quickly.

Captain Disillusion

The Captain Disillusion channel is best known for debunking viral videos and urban legends. However, as a long-time Blender user, he has incorporated a number of VFX tutorials and tips in many of his videos.

Corridor Crew

Best known for their engaging VFX Artists React videos, the Crew explores the intricacies of VFX, featuring industry experts and discussing both the challenges and innovations in the field. In addition to their entertainment-based content, they also have very good VFX tutorials.

Justin Odisho

Justin Odisho specializes in accessible tutorials for Adobe Creative Suite. Odisho's clear, concise style makes advanced techniques accessible to editors at all skill levels.

Drifting Walnut

Drifting Walnut is a channel that proves VFX can be fun and easy (or at least not as hard as you might imagine).

Compositing Academy

Offering detailed tutorials and expert tips, the Compositing Academy channel covers a wide range of VFX and filmmaking topics, including layering techniques, color correction, and integrating CGI with live-action footage.

Virtual Production

Andyax

With a focus on integrating cutting-edge techniques into filmmaking, Andyax offers tutorials, demonstrations, and insights on how to harness these technologies to create immersive environments and innovative storytelling.

Joshua M Kerr

Through insightful tutorials and behind-the-scenes content, Joshua Kerr provides guidance on utilizing advanced tools to create dynamic and interactive filming environments. Aspiring filmmakers can gain valuable skills in crafting visually stunning scenes by blending physical and digital elements.

Joey /// VP Land

Dedicated to exploring the integration of virtual production, augmented reality, and other cutting-edge technologies in filmmaking, Joey provides valuable tutorials and demonstrations. Aspiring filmmakers can learn how to create immersive virtual environments and push the boundaries of traditional storytelling with modern tools.

Writing and Analysis Channels

All films start with a story and screenplay, this section includes channels that feature advice and insights into the craft of screenwriting. Additionally there are a number of channels focused on film analysis that can be helpful in understanding the structure and how and why films work or don't work.

Screenwriting Youtube Channels

The foundation of any great film lies in its screenplay. These YouTube channels offer invaluable insights into the craft of screenwriting, helping aspiring writers hone their skills and navigate the industry.

Film Courage

Film Courage features interviews with professional screenwriters and industry experts. Their diverse range of interviewees offers a comprehensive view of the screenwriting landscape.

Robert McKee

Renowned screenwriting instructor Robert McKee's channel offers snippets from his famous seminars. McKee's authoritative voice provides valuable guidance for writers at all levels.

Lessons from the Screenplay

Michael Tucker's channel offers in-depth analyses of successful screenplays. Tucker's analytical approach provides writers with practical tools to enhance their storytelling abilities.

The Writers Guild Foundation

This official channel of the Writers Guild Foundation provides access to interviews, industry events and panels. The channel offers aspiring writers a window into the professional world of screenwriting.

FAST Screenplay

Jeffrey Alan Schechter's FAST Screenplay system offers a structured approach to screenwriting. His more recent videos have been aimed at helping writers adjust to the infusion of AI into the screenwriting industry.

Selling Your Screenplay

Ashley Scott Meyers' channel focuses on the business aspects of screenwriting. Meyers' practical approach helps writers understand the commercial side of the craft.

Film Analysis & History

Thomas Flight

Known for his insightful breakdowns and thought-provoking commentary, Thomas Flight's YouTube channel explores the nuances of visual storytelling, directorial techniques, and cinematic language. His content helps viewers gain a deeper understanding of how films communicate themes and emotions.

Paul E.T.

Through thorough breakdowns and insightful commentary, Paul explores the storytelling techniques, cinematic language, and thematic elements that make films impactful and memorable. His analyses provide a deeper understanding of both classic and contemporary cinema, offering viewers a chance to appreciate the artistry behind filmmaking and inspiring them to apply these insights to their own creative projects.

Every Frame a Painting

Although inactive for the last several years, Every Frame a Painting remains a seminal channel for understanding visual composition and editing. Tony Zhou's essays cover:

Detailed analyses of film language
Explorations of auteur styles
Examinations of subtle storytelling techniques

The channel's legacy continues to influence filmmakers and video essayists, setting a high bar for analytical content in the filmmaking sphere.

Now You See It

Now You See It specializes in dissecting narrative structures and thematic elements in films. Their concise yet insightful videos provide filmmakers with tools to enhance their storytelling prowess.

Filmmaker IQ

For those interested in the technical and historical aspects of filmmaking, Filmmaker IQ is an unparalleled resource. John Hess's in-depth approach ensures that viewers gain a thorough understanding of both the how and why behind filmmaking practices.

Kaptainkristian

Kaptainkristian offers insightful video essays that analyze editing and visual storytelling. These essays provide editors with a deeper understanding of the art and impact of their craft.

Film Freak

Zach Ramelan's Film Freak channel is best known for his enthusiastic film analysis, in-depth reviews, and commentary. The channel explores storytelling techniques, directorial choices, and thematic elements that define impactful cinema.

AI Filmmaking Channels

In the future all filmmaking tools will likely have some form of AI integration, but currently it remains a developing frontier. Luckily we have a number of YouTube channels dedicated to the emergence of AI in the world of filmmaking.

AI Filmmaking

Theoretically Media

Focusing on the latest AI tools and technologies, Tim's Theoretically Media channel provides insights, tutorials, and discussions on how AI can transform various aspects of film and media production, from scriptwriting to audio/video creation to editing and visual effects.

Curious Refuge

Curious Refuge is an innovative YouTube channel dedicated to exploring the use of AI tools in the filmmaking process. With a focus on creativity and technological integration, the channel offers tutorials, reviews, and insights on how artificial intelligence is reshaping everything from pre-production to post-production.

Futurepedia

Offering a range of content from tutorials to expert interviews, Futurepedia focuses on how AI tools can revolutionize film production, storytelling, and editing. Aspiring and established filmmakers alike can explore how to integrate AI into their creative processes.

Black Mixture

Black Mixture is a forward-thinking YouTube channel exploring the transformative potential of AI tools in filmmaking. The channel provides tutorials, discussions, and analyses on how artificial intelligence is impacting various aspects of the film industry, from visual effects to storytelling.

The Reel Robot

Focused on the latest AI advancements, The Reel Robot offers AI short films, tutorials, reviews, and insights on how these tools can enhance various stages of film production.

Obligatory Mentions

The following is the list of channels that, for SEO reasons, we are required to mention in order to satisfy Google's algorithm. These aren't bad channels, per se, they just didn't make our lists above...

Film Riot

Film Riot's energetic style and humor make complex filmmaking concepts accessible to beginners while still providing value for seasoned professionals.

StudioBinder

StudioBinder's channel covers topics ranging from pre-production planning and script breakdowns to directing, cinematography, and post-production techniques. Most videos are at the overview level, but still worth mentioning.

Cinemark

While primarily known for its theater chain, Cinemark's YouTube channel offers insights from industry professionals and provides aspiring filmmakers with valuable perspectives on the current state of the film industry.

PremiumBeat

Their content is particularly useful for filmmakers looking to improve the audio aspects of their productions, an often overlooked but crucial element of storytelling.

RocketStock

Their tutorials are particularly useful for editors looking to enhance their projects with professional-grade motion graphics.

Shutterstock Tutorials

Shutterstock's channel goes beyond stock footage, offering valuable insights for content creators.

Indy Mogul

Sadly inactive for the past few years, the Indy Mogul channel provided practical, hands-on approach is ideal for independent filmmakers working with limited resources.

Frame.io

Frame.io's channel goes beyond its collaboration platform, providing insights into professional post-production workflows.

Conclusion

The democratization of filmmaking knowledge through YouTube has already reshaped the industry, lowering barriers to entry and fostering a new generation of diverse, innovative creators. As these educational resources continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cinema.

By embracing these online learning opportunities, filmmakers can stay at the forefront of their craft, pushing creative boundaries and contributing to the ever-evolving art of visual storytelling. The journey of a filmmaker is one of lifelong learning, and YouTube's vast repository of knowledge stands ready to guide and inspire at every step of the way.

FAQs

Why use YouTube?

YouTube's ascent as a premier filmmaking education platform has been nothing short of meteoric. What began as a simple video-sharing website has transformed into a global classroom for visual storytellers. The platform's accessibility and diversity of content have democratized filmmaking education, breaking down barriers that once limited this knowledge to elite film schools and industry insiders.

Key factors contributing to YouTube's dominance in filmmaking education include:

Immediacy: Real-time updates on industry trends and techniques
Diversity: Content covering every aspect of filmmaking, from pre-production to distribution
Interactivity: Direct engagement with creators and fellow learners
Cost-effectiveness: Free access to high-quality educational content

Are these channels suitable for complete beginners?

Many of the recommended channels cater to various skill levels, including beginners. However:

Start with channels that offer fundamental courses or playlists.
Look for beginner or 101 in video titles.
Don't be discouraged by technical jargon; use it as an opportunity to expand your vocabulary.
Complement YouTube learning with basic filmmaking books or online courses for a structured introduction.

Benefits of Learning Filmmaking on YouTube vs. Traditional Film School

While traditional film schools offer structured curricula and networking opportunities, YouTube presents a compelling alternative with unique advantages:

Flexibility: Learn at your own pace, on your own schedule
Practical Focus: Many YouTube educators are working professionals, offering current, real-world insights
Diverse Perspectives: Access to a global community of filmmakers and their varied approaches
Cost-Efficiency: Avoid hefty tuition fees while still gaining valuable knowledge
Immediate Application: Learn and apply techniques in real-time to your projects

Downsides of YouTube as a learning platform

While YouTube offers an extensive range of filmmaking knowledge, it's important to understand its limitations:

Practical Experience: YouTube can't replace hands-on experience with equipment and on-set dynamics.
Structured Curriculum: YouTube learning requires self-discipline and organization.
Networking Opportunities: Traditional education often provides valuable industry connections.

YouTube used as a funnel vs. YouTube as a career

Virtually all YouTube channels will fall into one of two groups. Either the channel will function as a funnel to send potential clients to a website, a Patreon account, or a Kickstarter campaign. Or the channel will be focused on earning a living via the ad revenue from YouTube and affiliations.

Neither of these is inherently bad, but it is important to understand that they exist and how they function. These factors also explain why many channels will bounce around from topic to topic and do not follow a logical progression or a complete learning curriculum.

This is why many YouTube creators have to create content that will get more and more views to satisfy the YouTube algorithm. Videos that create higher view counts are not necessarily the best educational material. Thus, even the best YouTube filmmaking channels will, at times, delve into content that increases engagement even if that content does not have much educational value.

How do I choose which channels to follow?

Selecting the right channels depends on your goals and interests. Consider:

Your Specific Interests: Focus on channels that align with your filmmaking aspirations (e.g., cinematography, editing, screenwriting).
Learning Style: Choose channels with teaching styles that resonate with you.
Production Quality: High-quality videos often indicate well-researched content.
Update Frequency: Regular uploads ensure you're learning the latest techniques and industry trends.
Community Engagement: Active comment sections can provide additional insights and networking opportunities.

Start by subscribing to a mix of channels covering different aspects of filmmaking, then refine your selection based on your evolving needs.

Can watching these channels replace formal film education?

While YouTube channels offer valuable knowledge, they differ from formal education in several ways:

YouTube Advantages:

Free or low-cost access to diverse perspectives
Flexibility in learning pace and schedule
Up-to-date information on industry trends and technologies

Formal Education Advantages:

Structured curriculum ensuring comprehensive coverage
Direct feedback from instructors
Access to professional-grade equipment and facilities
Networking opportunities with peers and industry professionals
Accreditation and degrees that may be required for certain jobs

Ideally, aspiring filmmakers should leverage both YouTube resources and formal education if possible. However, many successful filmmakers have built careers primarily through self-study and practical experience, with YouTube playing a significant role in their learning journey.

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