What are the 36 best filmmaker YouTube channels in 2019? We scoured the internet to get you a complete list to help inspire and educate your film and TV aspirations!
I don't know about you, but when I want to learn something, I hop on YouTube. The video tutorials I find on there rival any film school or paid subscription service, and they're all free! So today I wanted to focus in on why these sites are among the best filmmaking YouTube channels out there.
We'll look at ones that feature writing, directing, gear, tutorials, and even some video essays.
These websites are sure to help you refine your craft, kick your filmmaking butt into shape, and get your material out in the world.
This is not a ranking, just a list of the best. So if you have suggestions, let me know and I will add more.
So let's do it!
The 36 Best Filmmaker YouTube Channels of 2019
1. Film Riot
Film Riot is a how-to experience through filmmaking. They cover VFX, cinematography, and lots of other hands-on episodes to guide you on set.
2. Tom Antos
This director and cinematographer walks you through VFX, new gear, and gives practical advice based on his decade-plus of experience!
3. Filmmaker IQ
We love a good video course, but what's even better? Watching them for free. This site delivers lots of curated "how-to's" at zero cost.
4. Indy Mogul
Finally, a channel focuses on getting the best information out there for indie filmmakers at every level. Great with gear recs, filmmaking strategies, and budgetary advice.
5. Dave Dugdale
A true creator whose experience in DSLR cameras and tutorial videos can jumpstart your skills in a matter of minutes.
6. Justin Oshido
Get back to the basics with a guy who spends all his time explaining how you can get out and shoot something with the resources you have at hand.
7. Lessons from the Screenplay
Writing is important, but how does the page reflect the screen? This channel helps you see a directors vision from the page.
8. No Film School
We'd be remiss if we left ourselves off the list. Here's our chance to humblebrag about our mission of free information. We cover CineGear, NAB, and other tech fests as well as writing ideas and "how-to" videos.
9. Neumann Films
Want the latest and greatest about cameras and equipment? This channel contains the best breakdowns and showcases on the web.
10. Cinecom.net
Tutorials, camera tips, and an interactive YouTube studio that shows you practical uses of all the gear available.
11. Philip Bloom
Unbox the latest cameras, monitors, gear and more with this professional cinematographer. His work is fascinating and provides the easiest and best feedback on what's new.
12. Pop Culture Detective
These critical video essays can give depth and meaning to your work.
13. Every Frame a Painting (RIP)
Though no longer kicking ass, this channel has 28 incredible videos that are "must see" for anyone trying to make it in film and television.
14. Premium Beat
Tutorials in post-production, shooting, and lots of other informative lists. Premium Beat is one of our favorite channels to stalk.
15. Aputure
A mix of the creative and the clinical, this channel breaks down the science and technique to go along with your imagination.
16. Zach Ramelan
A YouTube personality who continues to push the boundaries of videos by posting tutorials and epic takedowns of what we typically see on less-informed channels.
17. Academy Originals
Want to know the story behind your favorite movies, creators, and behind the scenes specials? This is your window into the Academy and their esteemed members.
18. The Film Look
We're all working on a budget of some kind, though most of us would rather spend less. This site keeps you on track for less.
19. Shutterstock Tutorials
Tips and tricks from the pros. Every week this channel has tons of practical guides for filmmakers at every level.
20. Sonduck Films
Tutorials that get to the point without messing around. They don't belabor anything, just give you the details.
21. Grip Tips
The grip is one of the most important people on set. Now you have a pro in your back pocket for when things get tough.
22. YCImaging
A working pro that stops to give you tips on how to handle clients, negotiate jobs, and use the gear you rented.
23. WhatCulture
Gaming, movies, and television all wrapped up into one. Watch this channel to take a break and to learn!
24. Variety
If you want to work in Hollywood you have to know what's going on in the world. Stay up to date with the news and the trends.
25. BAFTA Guru
Learn pro lessons delivered by the pros. This series of interviews can inspire you on set or on the page.
26. Media Division
Where filmmakers go to discuss craft and tell the audience how they really accomplish some of those camera moves and angles.
27. Deity Microphones
Sound is one of the, if not the most important thing to focus on when you start out. So get it right with the right equipment.
28. Cooke Optics TV
You want to learn cinematography from the best. So you have to talk to the best. This site is free information from some of the most heralded sources.
Video is no longer available: youtu.be/ffxd_FEQHCQ
29. Potato Jet
Rent gear that you know is great. These reviews tell you what you get for every price point.
30. Nerdwriter
It's not just about cinema and cameras. It's also about learning how culture influences art and how art influences movies. Get it all right here.
31. D4Darius
Screenwriting, directing, and cinematography. This guy emphasizes practical tips to help you make your film!
32. Olifemii Film Tutorials
Here's a great channel that offers special deals for watchers when it comes to different camera and editing packages.
Video is no longer available: www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=bgIW7l68E1g
33. Peter McKinnon
Get tactical advice from a working camera expert!
Video is no longer available: www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=r25IWquxe9s
34. Gerald Undone
So much of the filmmaker world is built on tech. but it can get expensive to rent and try this equipment. Luckily Gerald does it for you!
Video is no longer available: www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=zBNTK1nOXLA
35. Cinema Cartography
Art changes the world. so how can you make your art have an impart? These helpful videos can change the way you think about your projects.
Video is no longer available: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdc__rPuZhk
36. Film Jams
They promise to quadruple your knowledge as a filmmaker, what more could you want?
What's next? Visit the best screenwriting websites!
The best screenwriting websites are not just good ways to procrastinate but also provide critical information that can help your career and script.
Click the link to learn more!
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Your Comment
18 Comments
D4Darius should be in the top 10 and isn't even listed. What are you people smoking?
July 4, 2019 at 9:23AM, Edited July 4, 9:23AM
I do believe Brandon Lee, Yuri Palma and Dexter Navy should be in, and...in a very high consideration...Pure art and high level of technique
December 12, 2019 at 8:18PM
This is a matter of personal opinion. Me personally I have learned more from channels that are not even in this list.
July 4, 2019 at 3:33PM, Edited July 4, 3:33PM
D4Darius and Olifemi Films should be on there for sure.
July 4, 2019 at 8:57PM, Edited July 4, 8:57PM
Wow, even I think #9 is a bit high for us since we rarely upload but I will take it and am honored that you guys put us on the list!
July 4, 2019 at 9:57PM, Edited July 4, 9:57PM
You have been putting out amazing stuff for years. Much deserved.
July 4, 2019 at 11:14PM
What about Peter McKinnon?? He absolutely deserves to be on this list. Gerald Undone is also great.
July 5, 2019 at 6:44AM, Edited July 5, 6:44AM
Wheres studio Binder???
July 5, 2019 at 9:31PM, Edited July 5, 9:31PM
Okay. Everything's fine but StudioBinder has to be in the Top 10 atleast. Add them please.
They make such beautiful quality videos and I just love it. ❤️❤️
July 5, 2019 at 9:31PM, Edited July 5, 9:31PM
Where is studio Binder???
July 5, 2019 at 9:35PM, Edited July 5, 9:35PM
Criswell and Cinema Cartography are my favorite Youtube channels right now. Way better than most of the channels presented here according to me.
July 5, 2019 at 10:30PM, Edited July 5, 10:30PM
Don't forget Film Jams...they do 2 videos a week...tutorials and reviews on filmmaking. https://www.youtube.com/c/FilmJams
July 8, 2019 at 11:31AM, Edited July 8, 11:31AM
Thanks - I'll add these!
July 8, 2019 at 3:34PM, Edited July 8, 3:34PM
Thanks a lot for these. Most of them are really good :)
July 12, 2019 at 11:20PM, Edited July 12, 11:20PM
The FXhome guys do a lot of filmmaking and vfx stuff. :)
July 15, 2019 at 12:20PM, Edited July 15, 12:20PM
Cinefix, Just Write, and This Guy Edits are all great channels too.
July 15, 2019 at 3:46PM, Edited July 15, 3:46PM
About some channels did not even know interesting.
July 22, 2019 at 10:41PM, Edited July 22, 10:41PM
90% of these channels are completely amateur and youtube filmmakers. For example, Justin Oshido, Peter Mackinnon, YCImaging have no real life experience and make their living off Dslr tutorials. No hate, but there are far better channels to be listed. For one, Luke Seerveld and his series "Meet the Gaffer." This guy is really in the industry and not making corny ass tutorials on generic music video effects.
November 14, 2019 at 9:07PM, Edited November 14, 9:07PM
You are right, but it's very difficult to be on youtube for a professional DOP or Filmmaker. As far as I know, Brandon Lee, Yuri Palma and Dexter Navy have huge industry high level of involvement and in their spare times they published something. And quite honestly, they should be on Top of this list... They are really the pinnacle of what has been achieved at this time and I didn't really think that anyone could take it anywhere else - at least not in a youtube context.a These guy have destroyed me...
December 12, 2019 at 8:29PM
This Guy Edits you tube channel. I have learned more from this channel than any of the others. Not only post production (something lacking in your list), but in all aspects of film making.
Not sure if your list is a ranking but This Guy Edits, D4Darius and Film Riot are my top three, probably in that order.
November 15, 2019 at 11:51AM, Edited November 15, 11:51AM