No matter your skill level in your chosen craft, you had to start somewhere. Luckily, with resources like YouTube and Vimeo at our disposal, the learning process is faster and easier than ever, especially for filmmakers — there are thousands and thousands of video tutorials available, covering every subject. For the aspiring cinematographer, filmmaker, or director, starting out can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. Let’s take a look at some of the best video tutorials on the basics of videography.
Filters and White Balance
These five basic tips and tricks cover areas like setting white balance, choosing the right ND filter, and both good and bad framing. The video also sheds light on unnecessary production expenses common among new filmmakers. Using your surroundings is an underappreciated skill that aspiring filmmakers should learn to develop.
One-Man Band DIY
Knoptop offers excellent advice on getting great video and audio when you are your own crew. Whether it’s securing wind-resistant audio or holding your stabilized camera with a strap, there are some gems in here that truly reveal how easy it is to be your own director, cinematographer, and audio engineer.
Basic Overview of Cinematography
FilmRiot wins again with this fun lighting overview. The tutorial plays to the strengths of most working videographers who will, at some point, need to use whatever they can to get the shot. In this case, Ryan Connelly demonstrates lighting your subject with a lamp and using natural light when you can.
Getting the Most From Your DSLR
If you’re just starting out in video production, it’s likely that you’re working with some type of DSLR or mirrorless camera. These are the industry standard for beginners, and they’re fairly simple to operate. Whether you’re working with Canon, Nikon, or Sony, understanding how to properly expose or light a scene is crucial.
Shot Composition
D4Darious offers another stellar tutorial on shot composition and framing. This quick look into the world of lower-thirds, head room, and lead room is excellent segue into shot composition and how the eye looks for subjects in a frame.
Storyboarding and Location Scouting
DSLRGuide’s Channel is one of the best filmmaking YouTube channels out there. In this video, learning how to frame shots in pre-production helps you establish your footage before you’re even on-set. Following these steps before a shoot will make post-production easier.
Casey Neistat’s Guide to Filmmaking
Casey Neistat’s rise to YouTube sensation wasn’t meteoric — it was steady and persistent. This filmmaker excels at working with minimal resources, and his channel is an excellent example of why expensive gear doesn’t matter.
Hacks for Filmmakers
Even if you’re an established videographer getting consistent work, money can inevitably run low, and knowing how to make the most of what’s around you just might save a project. Whether it’s lens or lighting hacks, these cheat codes will save you money and improve your work.
Camera Movements
Even though the examples in this video are all mainstream films with substantial budgets, their lessons on camera movement are valuable for any filmmaker. Whether you’re trying to engage the audience with the characters or direct the audience’s attention, there are different intentions behind every camera movement, and understanding those intentions will only improve your career.
Top image via Shutterstock.