Free Online Filmmaking Courses and Certifications 2024

Filmmaking is the process of making a motion picture, from the conception of the idea to the completion of the finished product. It involves writing, directing, producing, editing, and distributing the film.

Filmmaking Courses

What Are the Best Filmmaking Certifications?

Complete Filmmaker Guide: Become an Incredible Video Creator | Udemy : This course covers everything from pre-production to post-production, including camera settings, lighting, sound, editing, color grading and more. You will learn how to create stunning videos with any camera and budget. The course is suitable for beginners to intermediate learners and costs $79.99.


Hollywood Film School: Filmmaking & TV Directing Masterclass | Udemy: This course teaches you how to direct films and TV shows like a professional. You will learn how to develop your vision, work with actors, plan your shots, edit your footage and more. The course is taught by Gil Bettman, a veteran Hollywood director and professor at Chapman University. The course costs $94.99.


Cinematography Basics: Understanding Filmmaking Style | Zak Mulligan | Skillshare: This course introduces you to the fundamentals of cinematography, such as framing, composition, camera movement, lighting and color. You will learn how to use these elements to create different moods and styles for your films. The course is taught by Zak Mulligan, an award-winning cinematographer and director. The course is free for Skillshare members.


Low Budget Filmmaking — Tips and Tricks for an Indie Look | Skillshare: This course shows you how to make films with a low budget but a high impact. You will learn how to use DIY equipment, natural light, practical effects and creative solutions to achieve a cinematic look for your films. The course is taught by Matty Brown, an indie filmmaker and Vimeo Staff Pick director. The course is free for Skillshare members.


Write A Feature Length Screenplay For Film Or Television | Michigan State University | Coursera: This course guides you through the process of writing a feature-length screenplay for film or television. You will learn how to develop your story idea, structure your plot, create your characters, write dialogue and more. The course is taught by David Wheeler, a screenwriter and professor at Michigan State University. The course is free to audit or $49 for a certificate.


Getting Your Film off the Ground | Michigan State University | Coursera: This course teaches you how to produce your film from start to finish. You will learn how to pitch your film, find funding, hire crew, manage production, distribute your film and more. The course is taught by Bob Albers, a filmmaker and professor at Michigan State University. The course is free to audit or $49 for a certificate.


Martin Scorsese Teaches Filmmaking | MasterClass : This course gives you access to the masterclass of Martin Scorsese, one of the most influential filmmakers of all time. You will learn how to tell stories through film, explore different genres, work with actors, use music and sound, edit your film and more. The course costs $180 for an annual membership that includes access to all MasterClass courses.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Q1: What are the 5 stages of filmmaking?

Film production consists of five distinct phases, namely development, pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution.

Q2: Is 25 too old to start filmmaking?

If you're 25 years old, don't worry about being too old to pursue a career in filmmaking. Age is irrelevant in this field, as what truly matters is your creativity, passion, and storytelling abilities. Many renowned filmmakers didn't even begin their journey until their 30s, 40s, or even later.

Q3: Is filmmaking a good degree?

For individuals aspiring to enter the film industry, opting for a film degree can prove to be a worthwhile venture. Enrolling in a film degree program offers students a chance to cultivate and enhance their abilities across diverse aspects of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, and beyond.

Q4: What Filmmaking courses can I find on AZ Class?

On this page, we have collected free or certified 359 Filmmaking online courses from various platforms. The list currently only displays up to 50 items. If you have other needs, please contact us.

Q5: Can I learn Filmmaking for free?

Yes, If you don’t know Filmmaking, we recommend that you try free online courses, some of which offer certification (please refer to the latest list on the webpage as the standard). Wish you a good online learning experience!

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