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Have you heard of the Russos of Marvel fame or Kathryn Bigelow?

How about the Duffer brothers, who directed Stranger Things?

What do they all have in common? They're big names in Hollywood!

Director calling for action with his clapperboard.

Do you, too, dream of becoming a director, but you're not really sure what's involved?

Find out if being a film and TV director is the career for you!

What Do Directors REALLY Do?

Do they just roam around on set yelling, "ACTION?"

Meme: 'you are a director and you just don't yell action'

Directors basically run the whole show!

Film and TV directors manage and direct all the creative elements and components of a film or TV show.

Their day-to-day responsibilities include:

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  • Read and edit scripts

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  • Consult with the producers and writers regarding vision, locations, crew, casting, and storyboarding

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  • Advise actors throughout the filming process

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  • Decide if any scenes need to be reshot

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  • Manage a film crew,for example, instruct camera operators on angles and shots

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  • Ensure the vision for the film or show is executed

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  • Collaborate with editors on post-production revisions

Quiz

Sam is a TV director. What are some of their responsibilities? Select all that apply.

Qualities Needed

What makes a GOOD director?

1. Vision — have a clear and distinct vision for the production and be able to articulate this vision to your cast and crew to make sure everyone is on the same page.

Leo Decaprio smiling & holding champagne,saying My doc said I have perfect vision. Let's go make some blockbuster shows now.

2. Communication — communicate and collaborate with everyone involved in the making of the film or show, including actors, crew, producers, and studio executives.

3. Leadership — lead and motivate your team, inspiring the cast and crew to give their best performance, and work efficiently and effectively.

Team hoisting a championship trophy.

4. Creativity and imagination — to bring your vision to life.

Quiz

How would you describe a good director?

Education

Steven Spielberg receiving an Oscar in 1994

You're probably wondering, "Do I need a degree to become a director?"

The simple answer is no. Some directors begin their careers by creating their own films or getting entry-level work at studios.

While not required, it can be helpful to get a bachelor's degree in film or cinema in order to learn the fine details of filmmaking.

Did you know?

Steven Spielberg was rejected from film school 3 times! (psychologytoday.com, "Why Spielberg, a Film School Reject, Was Successful Anyway", 2019)

Pros and Cons of the Job

Pros

  • Income is potentially high

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  • Time to work on your own film projects

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  • Freedom to explore your creative ideas

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  • Interesting work and lifestyle

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Laughing leo dicarprio meme saying When you thought it was all golden stars reality be like:

Cons

  • No guarantees of a steady paycheck, health insurance, or retirement plan

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  • You're responsible and accountable for the success or failure of a project

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  • You must be disciplined enough to work both autonomously and collaboratively

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  • Competition is fiercea human figure with a checklist Icon

Did you know?

The average salary for a director is $71, 857 in the US and $70,254 in Canada (payscale.com).

Take Action

A young person in their bedroom behind a video camera, saying 'Rolling!'

How do you break into film directing?

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This Byte has been authored by

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