No Film School is a leading online resource and community hub for independent filmmakers, offering thousands of free articles, gear reviews, tutorials, podcasts, and filmmaking guides. The platform doesn’t offer a traditional course structure but instead provides ongoing education through blog content, videos, and newsletters. Topics include directing, editing, cinematography, screenwriting, production tips, and how to make and market films on a tight budget. Its content is tailored for creators outside the traditional film school system, empowering self-taught filmmakers to learn by doing, reading, and engaging with a like-minded community.

StudioBinder provides 100% free video master classes designed for directors, screenwriters, and producers. This comprehensive platform offers an ever-expanding series of practical filmmaking and cinematography techniques across multiple disciplines including directing, producing, scriptwriting, and post-production. The courses integrate seamlessly with StudioBinder's production management tools, providing practical application opportunities.

Coursera partners with top universities and companies to offer academic-level courses, including in screenwriting, video production, and cinematic storytelling. Courses often include peer-reviewed assignments and optional certification. Some are part of larger degrees or specialisations.

Udemy is one of the largest course marketplaces, offering thousands of filmmaking and video editing courses. Content ranges from smartphone cinematography to professional editing suites and business-side skills. Courses are sold individually with lifetime access.

Skillshare is a membership-based platform offering creative classes including film production, editing, and animation. Its community-style learning includes class projects, feedback, and user interaction. Lessons are short and accessible, ideal for learners who prefer casual, hands-on discovery over formal study.

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) offers thousands of video courses, including filmmaking, editing, motion graphics, and business skills. Lessons are modular, allowing users to learn on their own time, and cover tools like Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Final Cut Pro.

Film Riot is a long-running YouTube channel and website that teaches filmmaking through tutorials, short films, gear reviews, and behind-the-scenes breakdowns. Hosted by Ryan Connolly, the content is fast-paced, humorous, and DIY-focused, with an emphasis on creative problem-solving and low-budget tricks.

DSLR Guide began as a YouTube channel by Simon Cade and evolved into a filmmaking education hub offering tutorials, courses, and gear reviews focused on low-budget and DSLR filmmaking. Topics include lighting, storytelling, editing, and sound design. The approach is minimal, thoughtful, and grounded in accessible techniques.

Filmmaker IQ offers a unique mix of film history, science, and practical tutorials. It dives into topics such as frame rates, lens theory, editing styles, and the evolution of cinematic language. Courses are available on its website and YouTube, and the tone is educational, witty, and deep.

CreativeLive is an online education platform designed for creatives, including photographers, designers, musicians, and filmmakers. Its Free On-Air model allows users to watch select classes for free in real-time, while also offering paid access to a vast library of on-demand courses. For filmmakers, CreativeLive features lessons on storytelling, cinematography, editing, lighting, and building a video business, all taught by industry experts. The platform emphasises project-based learning and real-world application, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate creators looking to upskill from home. With a focus on visual and practical teaching, its content is optimised for hands-on learners.