When you think of a director, what comes to mind? It’s likely a canvas chair and the phrase “Lights, camera, action!” That’s a fair assessment. A big part of a director’s job is indeed calling the shots and fulfilling their creative vision for the film.

But that is only part of what the directing discipline oversees. Given the sheer number of details to manage, assistant directors support the director.

The first assistant director (1st AD) plans the filming schedule and manages the set so the director can work with actors and set up shots. Most of the crew reports to the 1st AD.

Second assistant directors (2nd AD) support the 1st AD. They oversee the daily schedule and communicate with the production office to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Third assistant directors (3rd AD) are used on larger productions to organize background actors and to ensure security and crowd control when the film is shooting on location.

The directing department is represented by DGC.

Decision-making

Directors at all levels make countless decisions during a production.

Communication

The cast and crew need to buy into the director’s vision and have a clear understanding of where they’re supposed to be at any given moment..

Multi-tasking

Between consulting people and making decisions, directors must keep many balls in the air.

Stamina

Directors work long, mentally-taxing days.

Creativity

This skill influences the look and feel of the production and the ability to solve problems in novel ways.

Directors have a reputation for being single-minded and even dictatorial. But collaboration is really the key to success in the discipline.

Working with actors and shooting the film only scratches the surface of a director’s duties.

Much of their work takes place off set. They work closely with the casting director, cinematographer, art director, production designer, costume designer—you name it. Just about everyone needs the director’s input. In turn, the director needs their help to create a successful production.