How do you distinguish between a video director and producer?

A Video Director is the Creative head that turns the story on paper into a visual story interpreting it using other elements of story telling to achieve the goal of the story. A Producer is the Administrative Head making sure all the elements are available on time and deliverables are done as at when due working hand in hand with Video Director and other members of the team to achieve the goal of the story.

The roles are VERY genre dependent. Network television for example has different roles for producers vs directors depending on type of show: live sports, entertainment events, newscasts, reality TV, documentaries, independent film, studio film, episodic TV, one time specials. Often the director is the primary person for storytelling and content/vision but don’t tell that to a news producer - that’s their job! And at most major broadcast networks and studios, the hiring of lead actors or talent can be at the producer/director level or as high as studio/corporate CEO or Division President (think Johnny Depp, Joe Buck). For every Spielberg or Lucas working as an “auteur” (vision) there’s a Bob Iger (DIS) or Sean McManus (CBS Sports).

On a playful note - It’s a bit like the producer finds the rabbit and the hat and the director pulls it out perfectly - magic!

The video director is the person telling everyone what to do. The producer is the person whispering with the director. The director is the captain of the production and makes sure the production is directed properly. The producer makes sure the director has all the tools, personnel and financing to make that happen. They work hand in hand.

The director is the creative force visualizing the script or event. They instruct camera operators, choose shots, and oversee the production. Directors effectively communicate their vision, build and lead the crew, and coordinate various team members. This involves advising and approving the treatment from scenic and lighting to sound and cameras. Directors may also handle casting, plan camera treatments and editing, and direct performers during rehearsals. It's recommended to collaborate with a carefully evaluated video production house to ensure the right director is chosen for the desired output.

Depending on the on the size (budget) of a project, one person can be both Producer and Director. Although it could be very difficult for certains projects even though it was the smallest project. Having experiences in Video Directing and Video Directing can be very useful for anyone to be both Producer and Director for they own little projects.

A director’s primary role is to set the vision of a project and bring it to life, in the most creative way possible. The producer’s role is to figure out how to make all of that possible and solve all the problems that arise along the way.

The video producer plays a pivotal role in bringing a project to life. They oversee the entire video production process, from conceptualization to execution. Producers coordinate with different departments, ensuring a cohesive vision is maintained. They handle budgeting, scheduling, and logistics, ensuring the smooth operation of the production. Collaborating with a reputable video production house is advised, as they can connect you with a skilled video producer tailored to your project's needs.

The work of a producer is to own a business, own a team at the same time. The challenge is mostly the consistency to make an impact due to attention diversion, when working on multiple projects together.