Directing: What's Up With That?

Directing can mean everything and yet it can also be nothing. It doesn't always have one clear definition and it certainly doesn't have a single job, but the people at Corridror Digital filmed a brief list of all the do's and don'ts that go along with being a director.

Clear direction:
Clear direction is a part of the communication aspect of directing. You have to know what you want and how you're going to get there. After all, if you don't, then how will your actors know?

Don't always follow the script:
Sometimes, some of the best shots can be improved. Don't feel bound and chained to the script. Take some creative liberties and have fun without getting too off track.

Study other directors' styles:
Learn from the people that already know what they're doing. Learn what makes their movies so great and keep that in mind when you're filming your own stuff.

Take your time and be efficient:
Do. Not. Rush. When you rush, you make mistakes. When everyone is bombarding you with questions, take a moment and make a clear decision.

Find a clear way to communicate your goal:
Communication can not be stressed enough. Find out what helps to communicate your vision, be it animation, a storyboard, etc. Either way, a clear direction has to be given.

Call a friend:
Sometimes, being the cameraman and the director isn't a good idea if you're going to get caught up in the shot rather than the goal. Friends can be there to lend a hand when you need it.

Viewfinders are helpful:
Viewfinders are great for helping you set up a shot. You can also use your fingers.

Spend your time wisely:
Find out what works the best and the quickest for you. Time is not on your side, so use that to get the best work done in the shortest amount of time.

 No fighting on the set:
Fighting is unprofessional and there are many better ways of handling the situation. If you have a beef with someone, ask them to step aside and settle it like the mature adults you're expected to be.

Stay hydrated:
Drink lots of fluids because you're going to be busy busy busy on set.

Use what gear you have to its fullest potential:
You don't need any fancy-pants camera equipment to tell a good story. As long as you get your message across without any distractions or disruptions in the shot, why should it matter how amazingly spectacular your gear is or is not?

Take care of your crew and they will take care of you:
Work with your team and help anyone that needs you. Nurture your group and make sure they have everything they need to give you the best quality footage you can get.

Help your actors find their motivation:
Don't tell the actor how to do their job, tell them why they're doing their job, playing that role.

 Respect your actors' processes:
Respect that your actor may need to get into their character's shoes and find their motivation. Let them do whatever they have to do to give you the best performance they can give.

Set a deadline and stick to it:
 Don't goof around. Get your task done and move on to the next task. Be efficient and don't be lazy.

I thought that the article was rather useful. It gave me some advise to be a better director and helped me correct some of the mistakes that I regularly make.

I learned that being a director is a crazy business, not for the faint of heart.

These tips should always be kept in mind, newbie director or not. Communication is key and time is golden.