Factual television director[edit]

Factual or documentary TV directors may take any number of roles in the television production process, or combine several roles in one.

Entertainment television director[edit]

In a television show composed of individual episodes, the television director's role may differ from a film director's in that he or she will usually work only on some television episodes instead of being the auteur of the entire production. In an episodic television production, the major creative control will likely reside with the television producer(s) of the show. However, the director has input, whether it be how, if and why something can or cannot be done.

Drama television director[edit]

In a dramatic arts production, the television director's role can be similar to a film director's, including giving cues to actors and directing the camera placement and movement.

Live television director[edit]

Live television shows require a style in which a constant stream of instructions is given by the director as the show progresses, calling for various pre-recorded shots to be played, cueing presenters, communicating with camera and sound operators, and supervising the placement of professional video cameras (camera blocking), lighting equipment, microphones, props, graphics and the overall pacing and feel of the production. Other than quickly calling out commands, the television director liaises with the floor manager.^[2][3]


A news studio might have multiple cameras and few camera movements. In a sports broadcast, the director might have 20 or 30 cameras and must continuously tell each of the camera operators what to focus on.^[3]


While the director is responsible for specific shots and other production elements, the producer (typically seated behind the director in the second row of chairs in the control room) coordinates the "big picture", including commercial breaks and the running length of the show.