What does a Music Video Director do?
Since MTV launched in 1981, music videos have become a respected and distinctive form of artistic expression as well as an essential marketing tool for popular music. At the head of every music video is a director: the experienced professional who supervises the production team, oversees filming and editing, and, in some cases, provides a guiding creative vision. Although over the last two decades music videos have shifted away from their television origins, finding a larger audience on websites like YouTube, the music video production process has remained mostly the same—and it all begins with finding a director.
At a Glance
There's no degree requirement to work as a music video director. Many start out making student and independent films and may also work as volunteers, interns, or production assistants (PAs) on video shoots in order to learn the ropes. When it comes to acquiring their first music video directing credits, some befriend musicians in the local scene and make low-budget videos that demonstrate their creativity, while others slowly work their way into the director's chair by assisting established directors. Successful music video directors might become filmmakers or television directors, or develop close creative partnerships with famous recording artists.
Build relevant samples or case studies, pursue internships and assistant roles, and use professional associations, employer career sites, and Berklee Career Manager to find opportunities.
- Film production
- Film editing
- Writing (treatments and scripts)
- Storyboarding
- Hiring and managing a production team
- Working within a budget
- Time management
- Networking
Music video directors walk a fine line between expressing their artistic vision and satisfying clients, which requires a nuanced blend of conviction and adaptability. As leaders, they must be at ease with and confidently give direction to all kinds of people—including stars—and must possess the discipline and time management skills to shepherd a project to completion, even while working under a tight deadline. Knowledge of and passion for music are essential not only for directing videos, but for connecting with artists and finding work.
Like many in the film industry, music video directors are freelancers who spend a good amount of time hustling for gigs and likely work side jobs until they get their big break. Planning a music video shoot and hiring the production team can take anywhere from a couple of days to a month, while shooting usually takes only two to three days and editing about two weeks. In between projects, music video directors likely work on television and film shoots and spend a lot of time networking at music, television, and film industry events.
