Music Video Directors and Producers

The work of the music video director can be glamorous and prestigious. But directors work under great stress, meeting deadlines, staying within budgets, and resolving problems among staff members. "Nine-to-five" definitely does not describe a day in the life of a music video director; 16-hour days (and more) are not uncommon. Because directors are ultimately responsible for every aspect of a video, schedules often dictate that they become immersed in their work around the clock, from preproduction to final cut. Nonetheless, those able to make it in the industry find their work to be extremely enjoyable and satisfying.

Music video producers have greater control over their working conditions than most other people working in the music video industry. They may have the autonomy of setting their own hours and delegating duties to others as necessary. The work often brings considerable personal satisfaction, but it is not without constraints. Producers must work within a stressful schedule complicated by competing work pressures and often daily crises. Long hours and weekend work are common.

Music video directors and producers frequently travel to meetings with potential employers and to filming locations. Music videos are made in almost every setting imaginable—from a dark, dingy warehouse to a Caribbean beach to a nondescript sidewalk in a small town. Successful directors and producers enjoy traveling and the demanding aspects of work in this field.