top of page
(Mostly) Free Video Editing
Programs & Resources
​Filmora - A free editing software with a lot of great presets. This program is perfect for new editors but even a savvy editor can have fun and elevated projects with this software. There is a text, animation and sound package included and an option to upgrade.
​iMovie - A free editing software available on iphones and Mac computers. Great for beginners and for making simple quick edits. There is a text, animation and sound package included.
​WeVideo - A free editing app available on phones, PC and Mac computers. This program is cloud based. You shoot video on your phone and upload the footage into your WeVideo App. When you open the project on your computer it is there waiting for you. Does not have reverse or a proper cropping tool. Upgrade option available.
​CapCut - A free editing app available on phones, PC and Mac computers. Great for editing on the run. If you like fan edits this program is loaded with great animated text and powerful preset transitions making beginners look like pros.
​Final Cut Pro - Is NOT a free editing software but has nearly all of the capabilities as pro editing software. The interface is very user friendly and as easy to use as a basic editing program.
Premiere Pro - Is NOT a free editing program. This is a professional level program. Premiere is a part of the Adobe Suite and works via "Dynamic Link" with other programs like After Effects. The user interface is complicated and you will need a teacher and tutorials to navigate the program.
DaVinci Resolve - Is a free editing program. This is a professional level program. The cool part is the option to make the interface look like Final Cut or Premiere. There is a learning curve to the program but it is free. Also known for its color grading capabilities.
Film and Television Lessons
After Effects - Is NOT a free editing program. This is a professional level program. It can work with Premiere Pro via "Dynamic Link" as well as with other Adobe programs. The user interface is extremely complicated and you will need tutorials to navigate the program. Also, you should go in with a plan of what effect you would like to try, then practice executing that effect.
Scripts, Storyboards, Writing, Camera, Shots, Lessons, Editing Exercises and Film Projects.
Screengoat builds your skills as a filmmaker with tools and resources to help you become a GOAT.
Animoto - Is a free editing program but is more like an animated PowerPoint program. This is what we love about it. You can create animated title graphics over chroma key green or animated backgrounds for titles or bumpers in seconds. Super easy to use. The program leaves a watermark but it is easy to crop out. The program also has a lot of public domain images and music. Kicks Presentation up a knotch.
Storytelling Exercises
Pre-Production
Choose an image to inspire your story.
Dog
Toe Tag
fall
Dog
1/70
​Film and TV Prompts - Are you stuck? Do you need some inspiration? This might help you get going?
​Story Structure 101 - A complete guide to assist you in creating characters, worlds and a compelling story.
​Periodic Table of Storytelling - is a interactive chart that explores story types, characters, plots, etc. It is a very interesting tool.
​Pixar in a Box - is a course on Khan Academy. Pixar uses films and professional storytellers to introduce us to the storytelling process. This short course is free and highlights: Storytelling, Character, Story structure, Visual language, Film grammar and Pitching. Some of the best elements are: the "What if" exercise, the "Story Spine" tool, and the "Once Upon A Time" exercise.
​Pixar's 22 Rules - is a slide show / PDF that goes through some basic and interesting tips on storytelling.
​Movie Themes is article from Master Class is a good tool to use when trying to organize your thoughts and writing.
bottom of page