Top 30 YouTube Channels and Educational Videos For The Aspiring Cinematographer
Welcome back to the third installment in my series on Essential Resources for Aspiring Cinematographers! In the previous segments, we looked at 25 Books and Magazines, and 30 podcasts for cinematographers. In this segment, I’ve put together a comprehensive list of educational video resources, including documentaries, interviews, YouTube channels, and more, all dedicated to the art and craft of cinematography.
To understand the job of a cinematographer fully, you have to combine theory and practice. While hands-on experience on set is incredibly important and should come first, watching how professionals work, listening to their ideas, and analyzing their approaches and techniques is a great way to learn more during your free time.
Whether you're just starting and looking to learn the basics or you’re an experienced cinematographer looking for inspiration, these resources will give you great tips and insights from some of the industry's top cinematographers, as well as others in various stages of their careers and areas of expertise.
Documentaries on cinematography
Cinematographer Style
An essential watch for any cinematographer. Cinematographer Style is a feature documentary all about the art of cinematography. The film interviews 110 leading cinematographers from around the world, asking them about their influences and the origins of the style of their films.
Visions of Light
This documentary from 1992 includes interviews with many directors of photography including Néstor Almendros, John Bailey, Conrad Hall, Michael Chapman, and László Kovács, who give examples of their best work and the scenes from films that influenced them to pursue the art.
Who Needs Sleep?
While not related to the technical craft of cinematography, this documentary from acclaimed cinematographer Haskell Wexler focuses on raising awareness of sleep deprivation and long hours in the film industry by examining the routine overworking of Hollywood film crews. This is an essential watch for anyone in the film industry, highlighting the often brutal reality of working hours on a film set.
Discussions and Interviews
Collider Interview with Roger Deakins
Acclaimed cinematographer Roger Deakins shares insights into his creative process, how he collaborates with directors, and his philosophy on cinematography.
BSC: A Retrospective with Roger Deakins CBE ASC BSC
Roger Deakins explores his collaboration with directors, his technical approach to lighting and camera work, and the evolution of his craft across various iconic films
Master of Light - Robby Müller
Master of Light offers a rare glimpse into the personal archive of the renowned Dutch cinematographer Robby Müller, showcasing his collaborations with directors like Wim Wenders and Jim Jarmusch. This documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in the art of cinematography, highlighting Müller's mastery of lighting techniques that have shaped some of cinema's most visually stunning films.
Living The Light - Robby Müller
A 2018 documentary from director Claire Pijman on cinematographer Robby Müller. The documentary used Müller’s personal archive to make a unique film essay that combines archival footage with excerpts of his work to give the viewer a unique insight into the mind of the acclaimed cinematographer.
The Hollywood Reporter Roundtables
Roundtable conversations between top industry creatives from producers, directors, actors, writers, cinematographers, and more.
Film Round Table
Round table discussions between top industry filmmakers. Be sure to sign up for their mailing list to get access to "The Vault" - the archive of all their past conversations.
American Society of Cinematographers Clubhouse Conversations
Conversations between members of the American Society of Cinematographers that involve detailed discussions breaking down their work on a specific project. These insightful dialogues offer a glimpse into the creative processes and technical decisions that shape the project’s look.
CineGuide
A great resource of interviews on a large variety of topics from lighting to camera movement and more.
Cooke Optics
The Cooke Optics channel shares in-depth discussions and interviews with renowned cinematographers, showcasing their films shot with Cooke lenses, and explores the "Cooke Look"— their signature visual aesthetic.
Lighting Breakdowns & Educational Channels
These channels offer a mix of tutorials, breakdowns, and practical advice on various aspects of cinematography. From lighting techniques to camera movement, these resources are perfect for hands-on learners.
Litegear Live
Great lighting breakdowns with industry-leading Chief Lighting Technicians.
British Society of Cinematographers
Explore conversations and insights with leading cinematographers from the British Society of Cinematographers.
The Wandering DP
From the podcast of the same name, Cinematographer Patrick O’Sullivan breaks down the lighting and techniques used in various commercials.
Every Frame a Painting
This channel analyzes filmmaking techniques used in popular films, breaking down the art of visual storytelling.
Meet the Gaffer
”Meet the Gaffer” host Luke Seerveld, dives into practical lighting setups and on-set experiences from a working gaffer.
Gaffer & Gear
A comprehensive guide to lighting equipment used on set and how to effectively utilize them.
Cinematographers on Cinematography
Features interviews with experienced cinematographers sharing insights on their craft.
In Depth Cine
A resource offering deep dives into cinematography techniques and the philosophy behind shot composition.
DP/30
Interviews with filmmakers and creatives in the industry, offering an insider perspective on filmmaking.
The Martini with Arri Rental
An incredible resource featuring interviews with some of the top cinematographers in the world.
Rob Ellis
UK-based cinematographer Rob Ellis shares his lighting breakdowns and cinematography tips.
Color Grading
This is the crucial final stage of the cinematographer’s image-making process. Learn more tips and techniques with these channels dedicated to color grading.
Darren Mostyn
A channel focused on post-production and color grading tips for filmmakers.
Cullen Kelly
Insights and tips from a professional colorist.
Technical Insights and Equipment Reviews
Staying up-to-date with the latest trends and tools in camera and lighting technology is crucial for even the most experienced cinematographers. These channels focus on equipment reviews, technical breakdowns, and practical demonstrations of cameras, lenses, and lighting gear.
ZEISS Cinematography
Zeiss provides in-depth discussions with filmmakers and technical breakdowns of camera lenses.
ARRI Channel
Learn about camera technology, lighting solutions, and interviews with professionals from ARRI.
Lux Lighting
Lux Lighting shares behind-the-scenes looks at professional lighting setups and how to use them effectively.
Complementary Learning
While not strictly about cinematography, these channels offer valuable insights into related aspects of filmmaking that can enhance your understanding of visual storytelling.
Lessons from the Screenplay
This channel focuses on the craft of screenwriting, analyzing famous scripts to show how story structures work.
Corridor Crew
This channel focuses on Visual Effects with insightful breakdowns from a variety of projects.
Watching these videos and channels is just the beginning. The best learning experience comes from applying what you've learned to your own work, experimenting with different techniques, and developing your unique visual style.
Are there any channels or videos you recommend? Let me know in the comments!
In the next installment of this series, we’ll look at resources for in-person training and workshops! Be sure to check back next week, and subscribe to the blog’s RSS Feed, add me on Substack, and follow me on Instagram and Threads for regular updates on projects and behind-the-scenes content!