How to Direct a Video

Directing a video can be as complex or simple as you want to make it. The quality and impact of the video depends on the amount of planning and preparation. Diligent pre-production helps reduce the possibility of problems during production and post-production.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Script
• Storyboard materials
• Video camera
• Editing software or equipment

Pre-production

1. Decide on the concept, and write a script if there is no script written. Read through the script multiple times. The script includes any dialogue and directions for the actors and crew, if applicable.
2. Set the goals of your video. Consider your audience and the intended response. The intended response guides you in the look of the video you direct.
3. Picture in your mind how each scene and shot should look. Consider the location, lighting, camera position and action involved on screen.
4. Storyboard the images you pictured in your mind. Draw pictures for each shot and scene, including descriptions of action, dialogue or any other information that will produce the image and reaction you are looking for.

Production

5. Set up each shot based upon the storyboard. Share the storyboard and explain the image you are looking for to your cameraman if you have one. Explain the action involved in the scene and any special camera movements or settings.
6. Make sure the actors have read and understand the script for the scene you are working on if using actors. Explain the feel of the scene and what mood the scene portrays.
7. Rehearse any actions or camera movements involved in the scene. This step can be repeated until you feel comfortable.
8. Shoot the scene. Make sure you have some lead and tail action to help tie scenes together in the editing process. Shoot multiple takes and angles if necessary.
9. Direct the cameraman and actors in shooting cutaways and reaction shots. Shots like these add emotion and also allow for some wiggle room in editing.
10. Watch the video you have shot to make sure it has the look and feel you want. Consider the continuity of the scenes and how well they will cut together. Catching mistakes during production will save you from having to reshoot at a later date.

Post-production

11. Review the video again and compare it to the storyboard. Make notes or changes to the storyboard if necessary.
12. Work with an editor in cutting video together to give it the look and feel necessary for the desired response. Decide on video effects, music and graphics with the editor if they will add to the video's desired response.
13. View the finished product. Consider your feelings and response. Share the video with others and compare their feelings and reactions.
14. Alter the video to strengthen the intended response. Skip this step if you are happy with the video and the responses.

Tips & Warnings

• Collaborate with the client if you are working with one. The desired feel and reaction to the video you produce should be agreed upon before any production takes place.
• Skipping the pre-production process can cause many problems and increase the time and money needed during production and post-production.