Film Directing 126: The Director's Playbook

/
Film Directing 126: The Director's Playbook

Directors need a strong idea for what they’re looking for in every scene

After all the planning, preparation, meetings, auditions, rehearsals, location scouts, etc. – the first day of principle photography is what all the work has been about.

Your script analysis, thumbnail frames, shotlist, schematics, and meetings with your creative keys have helped build the plan for the production.

Pre-thinking performance notes and details are a vital part of the playbook.

Read More

Film Directing 125: The Production Meeting

/
Film Directing 125: The Production Meeting

Gather round, everybody! We are ready to roll!

The production meeting is a review of all the details and moving parts of the production with all of the people involved in the shoot.

There are different ways to approach the meeting but the goal is always the same: to ensure that all departments and all personnel are in the know and ready to go.

This is a leadership moment for the directing team. Make it count!

Read More

Film Directing 117: The Director's Schedule

/
Film Directing 117: The Director's Schedule

The schedule runs the engine of production

Films are rarely shot in chronological order. Creating the production plan, crafting an efficient schedule, and deciding on the best order for shooting your film is done with your assistant director.

There are many puzzle pieces to a shooting schedule. Weather forecasts, location access, equipment availability, and actor availability can all create logistical challenges. A well-organized schedule lets you get the work for the day done in the allotted time with strong performances and a sense that everyone is pleased with their efforts.

Take care when building your schedule. It will pay off with a good directing experience.

Read More

Film Directing 113: The Director's Focus

/
Film Directing 113: The Director's Focus

The mind of your audience is the main concern

As a film director, the focus in your shot is either something that you want and can use, or it’s something that you don’t want and can’t use.

Be happy with your shots and takes. Make them the best they can be. Once you’re in post-production, focus issues cannot be resolved.

Read More

Film Directing 110: The Director's Camera

/
Film Directing 110: The Director's Camera

The most powerful storytelling tool is the camera

Creating strong images that are carefully designed with intentional storytelling details is the director’s job. The power and effectiveness of the storytelling lies in the director’s camera choices.

The beginning director must have an understanding of how camera placement and movement can convey the narrative purpose of a shot or a scene.

Read More

Film Directing 109: The Director's Eye

/
Film Directing 109: The Director's Eye

Develop an eye for visual possibilities

We know that filmmaking is a collaborative art and that the cast and crew work together to support the best possible storytelling. However, the director is ultimately responsible for building a strong, cinematic story.

Developing your eye as a film director is an ongoing process of understanding, observation, and patience. Every day and every film is full of opportunities to learn.

Read More

Film Directing 107: Introduction to Shotlists

/
Film Directing 107: Introduction to Shotlists

Shotlists help you plan your film

As the production moves from pre-production into principle photography, the shotlist is tremendously helpful. It shapes the schedule, clarifies the equipment that is needed, and many other important details that contribute to managing a smooth-running show.

Every director has their own process for pre-visualizing their story, but creating a written plan helps build confidence in the decision-making that happens on set.

Read More

Film Directing 102: Role of the Director

/
Film Directing 102: Role of the Director

Managing Creative People

Most film production students are interested in directing, yet there are popular misconceptions about the role of the director.

It appears to many that directors are at the top of the pyramid in the filmmaking process, however, directors are actually employees of the producer. There are professional guidelines and contractual expectations for the job.

The director needs to have a solid understanding of the entire filmmaking process. Are you ready for the challenge?

Read More

Film Directing 100: LEVEL 100 Introduction

/
Film Directing 100: LEVEL 100 Introduction

Directing Fundamentals

Without a strong vision behind a story, a film will lose its focus. A film director needs to have an understanding of how each department contributes to the making of a film and how to best utilize the talents of all team members.

The following 100 LEVEL blogs cover the role and responsibilities of a director in the director’s prep, pre-production, and production. Read along to learn how to tell a story cinematically, use the camera as a tool, prepare a script analysis and engage in the casting and rehearsal process with actors.

Read More