We’ve compiled a list of eleven of the most informative filmmaking YouTube Channels posting content right now. Let’s take a look.
The filmmaking YouTube world is constantly changing in the style of videos, subject matter, etc. Much like the industry, you never know what will be published and who audiences will subscribe to.
If you’re curious about starting your video empire, check out our guide to create a YouTube channel. This is also an absolutely fantastic place to learn and grow as storytellers, not only in filmmaking but also in the art of YouTube.
WARNING: I’m aware that there are fantastic filmmaking-oriented channels with massive audiences—like Peter McKinnon, Daniel Schiffer, and Film Riot. However, this showcases some channels that I think deserve more attention. This in no way diminishes those channels, as they’re informative, entertaining places to consume filmmaker-focused topics.
So, that being said, let’s dive in.
1. Tyler Edwards
You’ll find that his videos mostly center around gear from companies like Blackmagic, Aperture, and often get into the nitty-gritty with aspects of equipment, allowing you—the viewer—to make a fully informed decision before purchasing the said equipment.
I feel Tyler targets the specific audience of the full-time cinematographer and filmmaker who likely runs a small production company, opposed to content creators looking to make the next viral hit.
If you need the ins-and-outs of the top gear in the industry, then Tyler is a superb channel to follow.
Subscribe here.
2. Jacques Crafford
With 56,000 subscribers, Jacques Crafford has already captured an audience with the filmmaker scene on YouTube. His videos blend shooting techniques, color grading tutorials, and behind-the-scenes on projects that he’s produced.
Jacques’ videos are super-informal with clear, helpful information, a wide range of topics, and a strong portfolio of work.
Jacques has an absolute bundle of unique content that inspires you to learn more and improve what you already know.
Subscribe here.
3. Cinematography Database
I’ve been writing for Shutterstock for a few years, and I’m almost ninety-five percent sure I’ve included Matt Workman’s excellent Cinematography Database channel before. But, like any innovative creator, his content has changed and adapted for the times, with each passing month.
So, what was once a “cinematography deep-dive” has now morphed into focusing on the future of filmmaking—virtual production.
Not only has Matt designed and built a game meant for pre-visualization called “Cine Tracer,” but he’s now diving into Unreal Engine content, demonstrating how you can shoot and run a virtual production from inside your home.
Never doubt Matt Workman, as he’ll always lead the charge to new filmmaking heights.
Subscribe here.
4. Spenser Sakurai
The beauty of YouTube is that you can now find creators you can relate to and learn from, all at the same time. Spenser Sakurai is an excellent example of taking a complicated subject like cinematography or color grading and making it accessible and digestible.
The channel does what it wants, including sometimes diving into shot recreations. The best part is that you’ll learn something new by finishing the video no matter what the channel uploads.
Subscribe here.
5. Sjoerd Wess
Based in the Netherlands, Sjoerd Wess really pushes out quality and informative content on his YouTube channel. With only 11.9K subscribers, it’s a shock he isn’t bigger than he is!
The majority of his content revolves around helping you improve the way you shoot, edit, and produce content. Check out his breakdowns of editing programs, how he organizes his videos and on-set setups, what he packs in his bag for shoots, and how to make lighting work for you, just to name a few.
Sjoerd has a wide spectrum of content that anyone can learn from and enjoy.
Subscribe here.
6. Gerald Undone
Every active YouTube watcher needs to follow someone like Gerald Undone. The best way I can describe this is—following a creative that regularly uploads and lends his voice to what’s happening in the industry and community is extremely beneficial.
Often uploading at least twice a week, expect to find the latest software announcements, tutorials, reviews, and just general filmmaking insights from one of the fastest-growing voices on the platform.
Subscribe here.
7. Amy Creighton
Amy is the founder of Foxtail Productions, a professional video production house in Australia. With her YouTube channel, she produces a range of videos from tutorials, equipment rundowns, and reviews on the latest budget-friendly video gear.
While she only has 2.5K subs, I feel the YouTube cinematography/filmmaker space lacks female inclusion, with most scenes’ creators being predominately male.
Amy’s strongest theme on the channel is gear comparisons, giving anyone on the fence or unsure about which piece of gear some great positives and negatives. In contrast, she gives her personal and honest opinion.
Overall, this is an awesome channel to follow if you’re getting into cinematography or want to produce your first project online on a budget.
Subscribe here.
PremiumBeat has been publishing actionable content for years. However, lately, the work I’ve seen has looked better than ever as the creators have found their voices and strengths, teaching us some of the most fundamental aspects of the art form.
Whether it’s how to work a camera, record sound, or edit a video, no matter your skill level, there’s something here for everyone.
Subscribe here.
9. Moji Wilson
Moji’s production on his videos is flawless. Even in scenes where he’s explaining to the camera the topic of the video, it’s shot beautifully with a natural backdrop and lighting, or inside his house, and is super-clean and doesn’t feel over-processed with harsh contrasts and colors.
As regards to the content, it’s a broad mixture of behind-the-scenes, filmmaker advice, personal reflection, and equipment roundups.
His views on his channel are pretty low compared to some people in the list, but the quality of his shots and content overall makes you feel like he should have a much bigger following.
Highly recommend checking out Moji’s content and subscribing to his channel.
Subscribe here.
10. Of Two Lands
Florent Piovesan—known online as Of Two Lands—is a French/Australian Filmmaker and photographer who’s based between the French Alps and Sydney, Australia.
His passion for the outdoors and filmmaking go hand-in-hand in producing some stunning content on the platform.
Amassing over 30K subscribers, Florent consistently puts fresh and exciting content onto his channel. He breaks down and reviews gear, gives helpful and honest advice on things that have shaped his filmmaking career, and offers plenty of test footage from some of the most potent cameras you can buy right now.
Subscribe here.
11. Benjamin Hardman
Benjamin Hardman is a filmmaker based in Iceland, with his content primarily based on his homeland. Every bit of content Benjamin produces makes me want to fly to Iceland and explore the true beauty of this country.
Although he doesn’t post as often as the others in this list, the quality of his work is exceptional. And, as of the beginning of 2022, he’s started to open up about his lifestyle and how he produces his content.
I feel that Ben is a hidden gem when it comes to YouTube. He hasn’t got the massive following of, say, other big names in the scene, but his work alone goes above and beyond what others can offer right now.
Keep your eye on him!
Bonus: Shutterstock Tutorials
You didn’t think I’d get through this list without plugging our channel, did you?! The channel is only getting started, so be sure to tune in and be the first to download our next freebie pack!
I’m very proud of this channel and the content that we put on it. Video editing, motion graphics, lighting fundamentals, and so much more—we try to cover a little bit of everything in sometimes bite-size doses and full-length explorations on all things filmmaking.
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Cover image via DC Studio.
