Where Should The Director Sit in a TV or Video Control Room?
I’ve visited several TV and video control rooms at various churches lately and noticed something unusual – the director isn’t sitting next to the technical director; they are often sitting behind the TD in another row.
I’ve spent a significant part of my career as a multi-camera television director, and I can’t imagine sitting anywhere but right next to the person running the switcher. I like to be in conversation with the TD, point at things, and see precisely what that TD is doing.
However, I receive pushback from those who argue that the director is on a headset with everyone, allowing them to sit anywhere.
Poppycock.
But just to make sure I’m not crazy, I asked other director friends who are doing very high-level work. Here’s what they said:
“Any director out of the TD’s peripheral vision is not directing well, I can promise you that. I want the TD on my right-hand side, the AD, and the Script supervisor on my left. Always.”
– Micah Bickham, Live Director – Lady Gaga, The Weeknd, Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish.
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“I want to be right next to the TD! I’ve never been in a truck or a professional setting where I’m not next to them. I’ve never heard of a director not wanting to be next to the TD and AD if possible.”
– Steve Lester, Director – Elevation Worship, Jesus Culture, Hillson United at Madison Square Garden, Kari Jobe, Vertical Worship
“Absolutely – I need to be by the Technical Director. I’d rather TD myself than be separated.”
– Clay Jacobson, Director – The Jerry Lewis Telethon, Prime Time Country, American Idol Extra, Jeopardy!, The All-New Dating Game.
So I’m not nuts. If you’re the media director at any video facility, ensure the room is configured so that the director is seated directly next to the technical director operating the switcher. It will make a massive difference.
Phil Cooke, PhD. has been called “one of the most innovative communicators of our generation.” As a media producer, writer, speaker, and consultant, his client list includes major film studios and TV networks as well as major Christian organizations like Voice of the Martyrs, The Museum of the Bible, The Salvation Army, and others. He’s also coached and consulted with many of the most influential churches and nonprofit organizations in the world, helping them use media to tell their story. You can hear his podcast here.
