4 Key Things to Know About Studio Directing

4 Key Things to Know About Studio Directing

Each person on set has a certain responsibility, but the director is the person that must ensure all aspects of filming go smoothly. Directors often wear many hats since they have to watch pacing, shot selection, transitions, and more. If you’re interested in studio directing, then read on to learn four things you need to know before you begin.

1. Always have a Plan

Directors should have a plan in place before they arrive on set. Directors should have a shot list ready so that the team can get enough coverage of the subject of that day; this means getting enough wide shots, close ups, etc. Directors need to plan in what order to film the shots and how the scene will play out that day. Additionally, the director disseminates the plan to the rest of the team so they know what is expected of them each day on set.

2. Shoot Enough for the Editor

The editor should always have extra footage available just in case of an unforeseen error. Always keep in mind that more is better for the editor and shoot extra in case something in the background looks wrong or needs editing.

3. Start with Master Shots

Typically, directors should start with master shots (which contains the entire scene and all objects, subjects, etc.) and then move to medium close-ups and then close-up shots. Since the master shot is usually wide, you’ll want medium close-ups and close-up shots to fill in the scene to convey the story.

4. Use Clear Communication

Directors are usually giving cues to people handing the cameras, sound, lighting, etc., so it’s very important everyone understands the verbal and nonverbal cues. These cues could be hand signals or industry terms, but it’s important that everyone on the team knows them and can be directed by them. The director holds the entire team together, so without clear communication, the shot can easily fall apart. And this is a two-way street. The director should listen to his or her crew, keeping the lines of communication open on both sides.

If you want to learn more about the art of direction, including learning about pacing, shot selection, transition, and the integration of multiple media sources during a production, then check out Manhattan Neighborhood Network’s course Directing for the Studio.