Filmmaking is an art that you’re not going to master quickly. If you want to get better, you’ll need to study, practice, and work diligently. Simultaneously, it is wise to rely on advice from masters. One way to do that is by reading the best books on filmmaking. Books are written by intelligent individuals who have experience in the field. They understand the industry and equipment better than anyone else. Therefore, you can gain a lot of knowledge by relying on filmmaking books.
I love listening to books on Audible. You can set the speed to 2x and let them flow through your brain while driving or doing chores. Or you can snag them on Kindle and carry them around with you anywhere!
But you’ll need to find the right ones. What are the best books on filmmaking? You’ll find out in the guide below.
Different Books for Different Filmmakers
You’ll agree that there are numerous ways to enhance your filmmaking skills. You can experiment on your own, find a mentoring opportunity, or attend a class. Alternatively, you should try reading books. There are countless books that will prove to be beneficial to your pursuit. However, you should realize that some books are written for certain types of filmmakers. If you’re trying to shoot a documentary, you may want to read books that are geared to this genre and vice versa.
Furthermore, you should try reading about the essentials such as screenwriting, directing, and cinematography. By studying up on these subjects, you’ll be ready to perfect your craft and stun audiences with your new films.
Breaking Down the Best Books on Filmmaking
Again, you’re going to find out that some books are better than others. So, you need to go above and beyond to choose books that are going to be worth your time. Below, you’ll find out which books you should add to your reading list.
Cinematography: Theory And Practice by Blain Brown
Cinematography has changed significantly over the years and Blain Brown understands the industry better than anyone else. In this book, you’re going to learn a lot about these changes as well as the tools and technology that have brought about the revolution. You’ll also learn more about visual language, color, and lighting. The book is a bit expensive but it’ll prove to be well worth it. The 2016 edition will make a great tool for any new or veteran filmmaker.
Master Shots By Christopher Kenworthy
Next, you’ll want to consider reading Master Shots Volume 2. This book focuses on shooting dialogue scenes. Suffice to say, it’ll prove to be helpful for any modern filmmaker. You can’t have a good movie without powerful and captivating dialogue scenes. This is why you’ll want to take advantage of this book. Once you’ve read it, you’ll know how to block your scene and capture the emotion and drama of the event. The span spans over 240 pages so you can guarantee that it is going to teach you something new and interesting.
Screenplay By Syd Field
To be a good filmmaker, you need to start with a good script. Therefore, you should take the time to read Syd Field’s Screenplay. This book covers the basics of screenwriting. And, it will provide you with a step-by-step tutorial for creating your next screenplay. The book takes the reader from the first step to the finished script. It is comprehensive and insightful so it’ll make your screenplays significantly better. In this book, you’ll find tips for making your first ten pages perfect. You’ll also discover ways to collaborate with others. This book will keep you engaged for more than 300 pages and you’ll be glad that you read it.
The Filmmaker’s Eye By Gustavo Mercado
When it comes to cinema, the composition is vitally important. If you don’t get that right, your video is going to be unwatchable. The good news is that improving your composition won’t be too difficult but you’ll need to learn from a master. This is why you’ll want to take the time to read Gustavo Mercado’s The Filmmaker’s Eye. This book will teach you the rules of cinematic composition so you’ll be ready to conquer the filmmaking world. Many books can teach you the techniques.
However, few will teach you how to incorporate and use them. This is where this book knocks it out of the park. It takes things one step further so you can achieve the best compositions in your pieces.
Film Directing Shot By Shot By Steven D. Katz
Film Directing Shot By Shot is an older book since it was released in late 1991. Nevertheless, it remains one of the most helpful filmmaking books on the market. When you sit down and read this book, you’re going to learn a lot about the techniques professional filmmakers use. You’ll find out why motion pictures are so successful. More importantly, you should know that this book places significant emphasis on storytelling. If you’re interested in expanding your techniques, this book is a must.
This book will prove to be helpful for any director or filmmaker. You’ll want to check it out.
In The Blink Of An Eye By Walter Murch
You cannot deny the fact that Walter Murch stands alone. He is on a level by himself and you’ll want to learn as much as you can about his filmmaking techniques. With that being said, you’ll want to take the time to read In The Blink of an Eye. This book will provide you with insight into the way Murch edits his films. Since he is an Oscar winner, you can guarantee that it is going to make your work better. It is a good idea to read this book since it’ll provide you with advice from a master of the art.
Sight, Sound, Motion By Herbert Zetti
If you speak with aspiring filmmakers, you’ll find that a lot of them are going to recommend this book. It is one of the best books for all skill levels. This book is going to cover a variety of topics including aesthetic theory. Simultaneously, it provides insight into the reasons audiences tend to respond to certain visual stimuli. So, you can use this book to learn how to pull a few strings. The book is very informative and well-written. You won’t have any trouble reading or understanding the information and it’ll make your work so much better.
Projected Fears By Kendall R. Philips
There are many excellent movie genres to choose from. However, you’re going to find out that some genres are better than others. For instance, you’ll likely enjoy watching horror movies. If you’re a fan and you want to create horror movies, you’ll want to read Project Fears. This book is going to teach you about the history of horror movies and so much more. The book tries to find out why the horror genre has become so popular. When you read it, you’re going to learn more about filmmaking, the genre, and techniques.
You’ll be able to take these things and add them to your film. Do that and you can guarantee that you’ll have a hit on your hands before you know it.
Sculpting In Time By Andrei Tarkovsky
(one of the best books on filmmaking)
There are many great directors out there but most will agree that Tarkovsky is one of the best. Wouldn’t you like to learn more about his style and filmmaking techniques? You can. All you have to do is read Sculpting In Time. This book will tell you about this Russian cinema legend and his life. Simultaneously, you’ll learn more about his techniques and prior works. This book can indeed make your filmmaking projects so much better. If you’re trying to find ways to improve your skills, you’ll want to learn from this master. It spans more than 250 pages and you’ll find yourself amazed from start to finish.
Hitchcock By Francois Truffaut
Alfred Hitchcock and Francois Truffaut are cinematic legends. If you were able to follow in their shoes, you would become one of the best filmmakers in the land. With that being said, it is a good idea to take their techniques and make them yours. To do that, you’ll learn to learn about Hitchcock’s technique and go from there. Starting with this book is a good idea. This book covers filmmaking and the history of cinema. Plus, it’ll help you gain more insight into the mind of Hitchcock.
You’ll find out why he did things the way he did and so much more. Anyone who wants to become a good filmmaker should think about reading this comprehensive books.
Summarizing the Best Books On Filmmakinng
There are many excellent filmmaking books out there but they’re not equal. Therefore, you need to choose the ones that suit your needs the best. Simultaneously, you should try to find books that hold your attention. By doing this, you can guarantee that you’ll benefit greatly from the subject material. And, you’ll be able to use the information obtained to enhance your filmmaking skills while improving your projects. Snag a Kindle Unlimited account and you can start reading a lot of these books right away!
If you’re getting started or have been filming for a while, you’ll want to read the books mentioned above. Books like these have shaped how I approach filmmaking and write treatments.
They’re good for all skill levels so they’re going to work great for you. Be sure to check out these books before moving on to others. Continue expanding your skills and you could become a legend of the industry with time.
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