A television director is responsible for the overall visual and sound design of a TV production. They often have extensive knowledge of film theory, history and technique. Television directors use this expertise to direct scenes that accurately convey the content and underlying themes of a script. They may also act as a liaison between producers, showrunners and actors throughout the production process.
A successful TV director must have strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously. They also need to be able to work well under pressure and meet strict deadlines. TV directors often need to travel between different shooting locations, so they must be flexible and adaptable to changing conditions.
Because of the specific requirements of each project, it is important for a TV director to have a wide range of experience in various areas of filmmaking. This includes working on both feature films and TV shows. However, it is also necessary for a TV director to have specialized expertise in a particular genre or type of program, such as drama, comedy, reality, documentary, animated or action/adventure.
During the preproduction phase, a TV director will read and assess the entire script before shooting begins. This allows them to understand what is needed from the actors and to plan out their approach for directing each scene. They will often run ideas and test shots by members of the production team and adjust things like lighting and sound to match the style of the series.
Once shooting is complete, a TV director will supervise the editing of the final episode. This is an opportunity for them to exercise creative control over the footage and to ensure that the final product accurately represents their vision for the show. They may also work closely with the showrunner and producers to help them identify any thematic or stylistic elements that need to be addressed in the editing process.
When directing a TV show, a director must be able to communicate clearly with the actors and crew while remaining open to feedback and adjustments. It is also essential for them to maintain a positive relationship with the showrunner, as this will help them ensure that their directional choices align with the show’s established aesthetic and underlying narrative.
In addition to directing scenes, a TV director may also be responsible for other aspects of production such as telling camera operators where to shoot and which angles to capture each shot. They may also be responsible for cueing presenters and ensuring that all audio is recorded properly. In larger productions, a TV director may also serve as a producer, ensuring that the wider goals of the show are met and that commercial breaks and time targets are met on set.
A career as a TV director can be highly rewarding for those with the right combination of skills and experience. Many of the most famous and pedigreed directors in film got their start by directing episodes of TV shows, including Steven Spielberg and Jane Campion.