Wanna Be a Multimedia Director?

Have you ever watched a church service, sports show, or news cast? Sure you have, but do you what it takes to get everything right? This article is for those people working hard to be a director of multimedia. And we are not talking about a management position only. This is the top man other than a producer in a show or movie.

First thing I would say is be friendly and approachable. I have been working at my church for a year as a director in a month or two. Getting to know your crew is a very important part of being a good director. You have to understand what each person's limits are so you don't overwork them. There are times when a director must ask his or her team to step up to a new level of performance. Usually the scheduled crew is capable of stepping up. But just be aware of each crew member you will be working with.

When you are behind the director's chair everything on the screen is your fault. Even though someone may mess up their part, mostly everything comes to you. If you watch a TV drama and something looks funny or you notice a mistake, usually people will blame the director when the mistake could have nothing to do with the director's position. On the flip side if there is an amazing shot, or show people think the director has done an amazing job. So both the good and bad come together at the director's chair. No pressure if you are looking into this job.

But be aware, if you are directing you have to keep a cool and composed head. Directors that get mad and/or frustrated quickly lose crew members. You do not want to make your crew mad for two reasons. One they will not work with you very well. And sometimes a crew member will quit and leave the production. I have never had either happen to me, but I know one time a camera operator just decided to quit because the director was getting hot and anxious very quickly.

This caused the director to get on the camera op's case for no real reason. So the operator left the show, and the director was in desperate need of another operator on the spot. So be aware of personalities and what you are saying to them. But if you can keep focused and calm everything should go smooth.

One of the biggest mistakes a director can make is getting comfortable. I have done this and so has everyone else. As a director you are the man in the lead of the production. The show will be good or bad based on the director's job. Anticipate, that is the one word that solves the problem.

Be prepared for anything. If you have a newscaster that has a cough, make sure the audio department knows he might cough loudly into the mic. Have them be ready to mute the mic if the scenario should occur. Little things like that can be a major problem to a production. Read the pre production schedule and be aware of your crew, actors/talent and sets. Have everything pertaining to your job in front of you. Either on paper or your own notes, just be prepared and anticipate anything and life will be much easier.

Have fun and be relaxed will make this job much easier. Don't be lazy, but have fun with your crew, laugh and smile. This will alleviate most stress and makes the crew feel more comfortable. Tell people when they do a good job, and talk to those who make a mistake. Pull them to the side and explain what happened and how to fix the problem. Be respectful and yet laid back about mistakes. Try not to tell someone their mistake over the intercom system. Just use the tips mentioned above and keep your head above the water and the show should go smoothly.