Filmmaking for Everyone
The basics | Storytelling | Equipment | Ideas
Training | Downloads
Filmmaking basics
How to organise, plan, shoot and edit your first short film or video.
Filmmaking step by step
Story tips and ideas
Mobile filmmaking
How to make a factual video
Film storytelling
How to use images, sound and sequences to tell your story.
Understanding film language
Using sound in your film
Continuity: filming sequences that make sense
Essential editing principles
Choosing equipment
Choose the right camera and other equipment for the films you want to make.
The best cameras for filmmaking
Filmmaking equipment list
iPhones, iPads, accessories and apps
Filmmaking cameras under $300
Video cameras for children and teens
Creative ideas and techniques
If you want to make original, creative films you need to learn from other filmmakers.
Using still images in your film
Film poems and poem films
How great filmmakers use sound
Alternative film storytelling
Learn filmmaking by editing a short movie. EditClass includes over 90 clips of action, dialogue and B-roll, a step-by-step guide, and instructions for Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro and iMovie (Mac and iOS). By editing this movie you’ll explore how to use different shot sizes, camera positions and movement, and learn to create sequences that make sense and seem to ‘flow’. Learn more
“Amazing! Has everything a teacher could want.” Tim McGuire, EdTech teacher, USA
“A quick and easy way to learn film editing.” Daniele, Film student, Canada
“Helps students understand how to film with the edit in mind.” Kerrie Crescione, Film and Media Tech, UK
Education site license $79
My interactive multitouch book Making Movies Make Sense explains film language and filmmaking from first principles for ages 9 and up. Designed for iPad, iPhone and Mac, you can get it from the Apple Books store. Learn more
Training
Looking for online training? I’ve provided a guide to online filmmaking classes and courses. It covers courses by CreativeLive, MasterClass, SkillShare and Udemy – from masterclasses by famous directors to in-depth training in specific cameras and editing programs.
Tom Barrance
I teach all kinds of people to make films. I provide training for businesses, arts organisations, nonprofits and education. I’ve worked on film education projects with Apple Education, the British Film Institute, Film Education, Film: 21st Century Literacy and many more. My publications include Making Movies Make Sense and Editshots.