What does a TV Director do ?

Directors are responsible for the look and sound of a production and its technical standards. They work closely with Producers and/or Writers, enhancing, refining and realising original ideas into finished programmes. They are responsible for ensuring that the final programme is faithful to the original concept. They must be able to push boundaries while remaining in total control of their material. They work across all genres.

The Role

To do this role, you will need to:

... be able to translate creatively a writer’s, Producer’s and other originators' vision into a coherent, marketable, entertaining or informative programme

... understand all aspects of television production and post production processes

... be aware of and value the contribution of all crew members to the creation of the final programme, and be able to work with them effectively

... be able to lead a team and to motivate actors and crew members

... show diplomacy and sensitivity when working with Writers, Producers, Actors and crew members

... be able to conceptualise ideas and to think visually

... be able to decide about the appropriate graphic style and the music for the production

... pay precise attention to detail

... have a methodical approach to work, along with a high stress tolerance and stamina
have budgeting and financial skills

... understand when it is appropriate to use visual and sound effects, and how to use them effectively

... understand the difference between multi- and single camera shooting

... know when to use different technical and creative techniques

... have excellent communication skills
understand the requirements of the relevant health and safety legislation and procedures.

Technical Facilities

Directors liaise with crew members about all technical requirements, e.g. lighting and camera movements, sound recording requirements, set dressing, vision effects, graphics and transitions. While the crew prepare the sets and set up the equipment, Directors may work with individual actors on specific scenes which require particularly sensitive, dramatic or comedy performances.

Crew

The Director read through scripts before their first meeting with Producers, Script Editors, Story Editors, Series Editors, Script Supervisors, and/or 1st Assistant Directors. The other heads of department may draw attention to potential technical, logistical or creative problems with scripted scenes, and suggest alternative arrangements. Once all these factors have been taken into account and changes approved, scripts are returned to Writers and changes negotiated. Final scripts are delivered to the Director so that marked-up camera scripts and/or running orders can be prepared for cast and crew members.

Creative - Concept

The Director's marked studio script is the blueprint from which all crew members draw their requirements. Once all changes have been approved and implemented, Directors are responsible for the creative and technical aspects of producing finished programmes, working to the Producer's budget.

Qualification

You won’t need a specific qualification to become a TV Director. However, a degree in a media-related, drama or specialist subject may give you a good grounding.

You will need wide experience in and knowledge of the production process. You will need to complete specialist training in single and multi-camera directing.