Learn filmmaking how to make a movie—how to shoot and direct a film and edit your footage with software like Final Cut Pro, Premiere Pro, and After
“Soaring Above the Set: How Camera Drones Empower Indie Filmmakers” In the last decade, camera drones have redefined what’s possible for indie filmmakers, breaking down barriers to breathtaking aerial shots once reserved for blockbuster budgets. As an independent filmmaker with over ten years in the field, I’ve seen firsthand how drones have transformed from a … Read more
Introduction Netflix’s high technical standards are known to set the bar for cinematic quality, pushing filmmakers to use only the most advanced equipment to bring visual storytelling to life. With a focus on high-quality visuals, Netflix requires that all original content meets a specific set of technical requirements—starting with its exclusive list of Netflix-approved cameras. … Read more
Introduction What Makes Filmmaking Worthwhile? Filmmaking is a unique art form that combines visual storytelling with creativity and technical skill, allowing creators to shape worlds, evoke emotions, and inspire audiences. Whether you’re just starting or dabbling in the basics, countless benefits to filmmaking make it a worthwhile pursuit. When I first picked up a camera, I … Read more
Why Lighting Matters in Vlogging In the world of vlogging, lighting plays a crucial role in determining the quality and professionalism of your content. Proper lighting not only enhances visual appeal but also sets the mood, ensuring your audience stays engaged. A well-lit video can significantly elevate your storytelling and presentation, making it easier for … Read more
Finding the perfect Christmas gifts for a filmmaker can feel overwhelming, especially with the vast array of equipment and accessories available today. Whether you’re shopping for a beginner filmmaker, someone attending film school, or a seasoned professional, this guide offers thoughtful and practical ideas to suit every skill level. We’ve curated a list of filmmaking … Read more
Mastering Filmmaking Techniques: How to Avoid Common Mistakes Making a film that truly captivates an audience can feel like climbing Everest in flip-flops—frustrating and almost impossible. You’ve got the vision, the passion, and maybe even the gear, but somewhere along the way—whether it’s bad lighting, poor sound, or awkward pacing—the magic fizzles out. The good … Read more
Introduction: Why Good Audio is Key to Great Video Picture this: you’re excitedly streaming a beautifully shot video, only to be jolted back to reality by muffled dialogue and crackling sound. Frustrating, right? You might have stunning visuals, but if the audio quality is poor, viewers will quickly lose interest. Bad sound can derail even … Read more
Think of Travolta’s slick dance in Pulp Fiction—it oozes cool and perfectly matches the film’s quirky tone. Now, compare that with Chiron’s hesitant, shuffling walk in Moonlight. In just a few steps, we learn so much about his character without a single line of dialogue. Movement isn’t just choreography or flashy tricks—it’s storytelling. The way … Read more
Introduction: The Tools You Need to Thrive as a Production Assistant In the fast-paced world of filmmaking, success on set comes down to two things: preparation and the right gear. For production assistants (PAs), who often juggle a wide variety of tasks, having the essential tools at your disposal can make all the difference between … Read more
In 2015, a quiet revolution began at the Sundance Film Festival with the viral sensation Tangerine, shot entirely on iPhone 5S models. Utilizing anamorphic lenses and the FiLMiC Pro app, this indie feature film shattered preconceived notions of what could be accomplished with smartphone filmmaking, proving that with the right vision, even the smallest devices … Read more