Filmmakers are visual thinkers. Duh! Okay, so this isn’t a profound thought. But it goes without saying then, that YouTube is the perfect place for filmmakers to go for inspiration, tips, and general information regarding all things filmmaking.
YouTube has a little bit of something for everyone. Cosplay anyone? But there are a ton of great channels devoted to the art (and science) of filmmaking. Let’s take a look at a few of the best YouTube channels you need to be following if you are a filmmaker.
Summary
Filmmaking YouTube Channels to Start Following
1. D4Darious
Darious Britt is a filmmaker with a knack for video blogging. After completing film school in 2012, he began a career in film, but along with that, he created a YouTube channel in 2013 dedicated to filmmaking tips called D4Darious.
He’s racked up over 160 videos covering topics like writing short films, directing techniques, and how to use various types of gear. One of his most popular videos “Top 15 Mistakes Beginner Filmmakers Make” is a must-watch for aspiring filmmakers.
Darious’ videos are fast-paced and fun to watch. They follow a similar style to many vloggers on YouTube with quick cuts and lots of information in short bursts. But they are loaded with good advice and worth checking out.
2. Philip Bloom
Philip Bloom is a DP, director, and filmmaker with a long career shooting all over the world. He’s a huge proponent of shooting on Canon DSLR’s and helped build a movement behind their use.
Along with his wide body of work, he has a popular blog where he covers news and announcements, product reviews, and tips. He also posts videos on his YouTube account that includes his cool “Behind The Shot” series, documenting the filming of the CNN series “The Wonder List” and his various product reviews.
Bloom’s videos are worth watching just for the beauty of them all. But there is also a lot of insight here from documenting the life of a filmmaker to really learning about new products and how to use them.
3. Film Courage
Film Courage is a great website and YouTube channel dedicated to all things filmmaking. Here the videos are varied, not just in topic, but also by presenter. Instead of having a dedicated host, many talented filmmakers and industry vets share their insights in thoughtful videos.
On the Film Courage YouTube channel, you can expect to learn the ins and outs of writing for film, shooting on various camera types, and more nuanced topics like which films to watch for inspiration or the art of pitching.
Film Courage is a broad spectrum educational tool for any and all filmmakers. While some videos may not appeal to every filmmaker, there is definitely something for everyone. And you might just learn more than you think from some of the videos you didn’t think you needed to watch.
4. The Basic Filmmaker
The Basic Filmmaker is a catch-all for tips and tricks for filmmakers. Over the past 7 years, with about 175 videos, The Basic Filmmaker has covered everything from editing tips like shot matching, to how to use music in your films, to what equipment to purchase.
These videos are short and sweet, generally less than 10 minutes apiece, they are well scripted and easy to follow.
The Basic Filmmaker is a great channel to follow and watch regularly or to check into periodically for new advice and how-tos.
5. Film Riot
Film Riot is one of the more popular filmmaking channels on YouTube. Full disclosure, Motion Array has been a sponsor of Film Riot in the past. This is largely because of the quality of the material they put out.
Film Riot is a web series, put out twice a week, covering lots of tips and techniques for filmmakers in an entertaining fashion.
Originally created by Revision 3, now owned by Discovery Networks, Film Riot has a more polished production value and over the top host Ryan Connolly. Episodes range in length, but are generally in the 5 to 10-minute range, making them easy to digest.
Topics are all over the place covering things like how to film a car chase, one light cinematography, and masking and roto techniques.
This channel is a must for independent filmmakers looking to make the most of what they have available to them.
There are likely hundreds of channels on YouTube dedicated to filmmaking and filmmakers. We’d love to hear which ones you can’t live without. But we think these are a great place to start and to keep you inspired as you work on your craft as a filmmaker. Perhaps you can start your own filmmaking channel and we’ll feature it in the future. Keep us posted.
