Film and Television Directors

"Lights! Camera! Action!" aptly summarizes the major responsibilities of the film and television director. In ultimate control of the decisions that shape a film or television production, the director is an artist who coordinates the elements of a film or television show and is responsible for its overall style and quality.

Directors are well known for their part in guiding actors, but they are involved in much more—casting, costuming, cinematography, editing, and sound recording. Directors must have insight into the many tasks that go into the creation of a film, and they must have a broad vision of how each part will contribute to the big picture. Approximately 152,400 directors and producers are employed in the United States. They are also known as filmmakers. 

Salary Range

Below $25,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

High School Diploma

Certification/License

None

Outlook

About as Fast as the Average

Personality Traits

Artistic

Creative

Organized

Career Ladder

Producer, or Director of Award-Winning Projects, or Studio Head

Director

First Assistant Director or Unit Production Manager