7 Free Filmmaking Books and Guides
Looking to read up on filmmaking but not wanting to spend lots of money? Check out these totally free filmmaking books and guides!
Jumping into filmmaking and video production and editing can be tricky — especially if you’re just starting out. While it will always be the best advice to simply go out and do it (even if you fail now and again), reading up on your craft can be a great way to continue your education.
That’s doubly true when you’re looking to jump into specific problems you’d like to troubleshoot or speciality skills you’d like to learn. If you’re ready to develop your filmmaking skills, these seven free resources are some of the best around.
1. PremiumBeat: 101 Filmmaking Tips & Tricks
This free eBook is produced by yours truly, PremiumBeat. In addition to running a daily blog that offers pro tips, production and editing tricks, and filmmaking articles on a wide variety of subjects, we’ve highlighted 101 of our best tips & tricks for your eReading pleasure. All told, the books amounts to over 300 pages with in-depth details, diagrams, illustrations, and pictures on all elements of filmmaking , video production, and video editing.
Download the eBook here.
2. Shutterstock: The Explorer’s Guide
Shutterstock’s Explorer’s Guide to Travel Photography and Destination Video is a perfect companion piece for the modern-day adventurer. If you’re planning an upcoming videography (or photography) trip, this guide is a must-read for preparations in travel, cameras and lenses, gear and filters, adverse weather wear and on how to get the most best footage from your epic adventure.
Download the eBook here.
3. The Crowdfunding Bible
Written by Scott Steinberg, The Crowdfunding Bible is an excellent niche resource for funding your next project. The book (which is free online) is jam packed with real-world advice on how to build your crowdfunding campaign from concept to execution. While not specific to just film, the book’s focus is on all the tried-and-true tricks and methodologies behind building a successful campaign. A must read before jumping into funding your next project.
Download the eBook here.
4. Filmmaking Stuff: Take Action and Make Your Movie Now!
Filmmaking Stuff provides exactly what it promises: filmmaking stuff! The book, written by Jason Brubaker, is a comprehensive and well-designed book that helps you slam your way through the world of filmmaking. The best part, Brubaker has been on all sides of production and distribution, so the advice is deep and personalized. A great read if you’re just waiting to be the next Scorsese.
Download the eBook here.
5. Kodak: The Essential Reference Guide for Filmmakers
If your looking for a subject matter expert on filmmaking, there’s no better resource than one of most proficient film makers. Kodak has been a mainstay manufacturer (as well as a very helpful resource) when it comes to the world of film. Their reference guide is a goldmine of in-depth analysis on practical techniques — as well as an abundant resource of technical specs and processes to keep with you.
Download the eBook here.
6. The Black and Blue: Becoming the Reel Deal
Over 200 pages of free advice and templates that can help you build your career in the camera department. Becoming the Reel Deal focuses on the technical (and non-technical) aspects of film and video production and the roles you could fill therein. The book starts from the beginning, with advice on film schools, all the way through setting your day rates and building your resume. This is the camera operator’s book of choice.
Download the eBook here.
7. No Film School: The DSLR Cinematography Guide
Whether or not you’ve been to (or are currently attending) a film school, No Film School’s DSLR Cinematography Guide is an ultimate resource of beginner’s filmmaking knowledge. With a focus on DSLR cameras and digital filmmaking tips and techniques, the book is a hodgepodge of tutorials, interviews, gear news and all types of practical DSLR filmmaking advice. There’s also a Spanish version online when you subscribe to their newsletter.
Download the eBook here.
Have any other free filmmaking books to add to the list? Let us know in the comments!
