When is a Video/Film Director Needed?
Before diving into this topic, I want to be upfront: my perspective might ruffle some feathers, but it comes from a place of honesty. Every industry has its upsells. Fast food chains push desserts, car dealerships and phone providers push extended warranties, and in the video production world, one of the biggest upsells is the Director. While the title “Director” may sound impressive, it’s important to ask: what does a Director actually contribute to a video shoot?
To answer this, let’s start by understanding the auteur theory—the idea that the Director is the creative visionary behind a film or video. For feature films, documentaries, and artistic shorts, I fully support the need for a Director. Their vision shapes the final product. However, when it comes to corporate videos or simple film shorts, the client essentially takes on the role of Director. The production company’s responsibility is to interpret and execute the client’s vision, so why are you paying extra for a Director?
A Brief History of the Director’s Role
Back in the days of film, there was typically one person operating the camera: the Cinematographer. This individual was responsible not just for filming but for the entire visual composition of the project, including lighting and other technical details. Over time, as the industry evolved and grew more profit-driven, the role of the Director was split into multiple positions: Cinematographers, Camera Operators, and Directors of Photography (DPs). The Director, instead of being hands-on with the camera, now often oversees the shoot by watching video feeds on a monitor.
This decentralization diluted efficiency. Tasks that were once handled by one person became segmented, requiring more time and resources to accomplish the same goals. It’s a classic case of “profits over people,” as described in economic theories like the Theory of the Firm.
The Reality of the Director’s Role Today
While Episode 11 Productions is a business that aims to profit, we focus on doing so through mutual benefit—not by charging clients for unnecessary roles. In many cases, a Director on a corporate video set adds little value, particularly when there’s only one camera in use. A Director often demands additional takes to justify their presence, leading to wasted time and higher costs for the client.
Consider Stanley Kubrick’s legendary work on The Shining. The iconic staircase scene where Jack Nicholson chases Shelley Duvall required a staggering 100 takes to satisfy Kubrick’s vision. While his auteur-driven approach is respected in cinematic art, this level of excess is neither practical nor necessary for corporate video production.
When Do You Actually Need a Director?
For corporate shoots—whether it’s a commercial for a local beer bistro or a global candy brand—a Director is rarely needed unless there are multiple cameras filming simultaneously. On single-camera shoots, the Camera Operator should have the skills and artistic sensibility to capture the client’s vision without requiring oversight from a Director. If they can’t, it’s a sign you might not be working with the right production company.
Shows like My Name Is Earl, which ran for four successful seasons, were shot with a single camera, proving that excellent storytelling and visuals don’t require a Director’s constant presence. Unfortunately, some companies will argue otherwise, often because they’ve been charging clients for a Director’s unnecessary services on one-camera shoots.
The Bottom Line
The decision to use a Director should depend entirely on the complexity of the project. For multi-camera shoots or highly creative productions, a Director can be invaluable. But for most corporate video projects, the additional cost and time a Director adds aren’t justified. A skilled Camera Operator should be capable of delivering a visually stunning video that aligns with your vision.
At Episode 11 Productions, we prioritize efficiency, creativity, and ethical practices. We work to interpret and execute your vision without unnecessary expenses, ensuring you get the best value for your investment. When you work with us, you can trust that every role on set is essential—and every dollar you spend is well worth it.
