How to Collaborate with a Director on Set (Without Losing Your Voice)
When you’re just starting out, walking onto a film set can feel daunting.
You’re surrounded by professionals, there’s expensive equipment everywhere, people are rushing around with headsets — and then there’s the director. The person everyone seems to look to for answers.
It’s easy, in that moment, to shrink a little. To think, “I’ll just do whatever they tell me to do and stay out of the way.”
But here’s the truth: filmmaking is a collaboration.
Every single role on set — from the lead actor to the background extra, from costume to camera — contributes to the story being told. Even if you have just a few lines, you are part of that creative conversation. You do have a say, and your ideas do matter.
Understand the Director’s World
One thing that helps when working with directors is remembering just how much they’re juggling.
While you’re focused on your character and your scene, they’re managing a million moving parts:
The wardrobe department might be asking for last-minute costume approvals.
The DOP could be adjusting lighting setups.
The continuity person might be flagging an editing concern for post-production.
So if your director doesn’t talk much or give you detailed notes — don’t take it personally. Sometimes they’re simply overloaded. That’s why it’s great when an actor comes to set prepared, flexible, and full of ideas.
Offer suggestions. Have thoughts. But also understand — they might take it on board, or they might not. And that’s okay.
Trust Their Vision (Even When You Disagree)
I’ve met actors who refuse to do something because they feel “their character wouldn’t do that.”
And sometimes, they’re right.
But here’s the thing — the director sees the full picture.
They’ve spent months, sometimes years, living with that script. They know the full arc of the story, not just your character’s slice of it. They’re often editing the film in their head as they go.
So yes, I’ve disagreed with directors before — but I never argue with their vision. Because ultimately, it’s their movie.
And filmmaking is alive. The film has three lives:
The script – like a cocoon.
The shoot – the caterpillar, evolving.
The edit – the butterfly, transformed.
What ends up on screen can look completely different from the original script. And that’s part of the magic.
Learn Every Role on Set
If you really want to understand how to collaborate well, try doing every job on set at least once.
Be a runner. Work behind the camera. Help with lighting. Do a bit of editing.
When you understand how each department functions, you start to see why things happen the way they do, and you’ll become a much more empathetic, adaptable actor.
Not All Directors Are the Same
Some directors will talk endlessly about the scene.
Others will say just a few words and expect you to run with it.
Some will nurture, others will challenge.
And yes — you’ll occasionally meet a director who’s new, nervous, or even a little scared of actors. Directing is a muscle. It takes time and practice.
Since I started directing regularly at the Screen Acting GYM and coaching actors on their self-tapes, I’ve noticed just how unique each actor is. Some need tough love; others need warmth and reassurance. Some want to dissect the scene; others just want a few clear words.
So here’s a tip: Tell your director what kind of actor you are.
Say, “I like key words,” or “I love talking about motivation,” or “Just show me what you want — I’ll deliver.”
Personally, I love short, direct direction. I don’t even mind a line read. I know, it’s frowned upon — but I don’t care! We don’t have all day on set. Just tell me what you want, and I’ll get you there.
Final Thoughts: Be Brave, Be Collaborative
Next time you step onto set, remember:
You belong there.
Your ideas matter.
And the best collaborations happen when actors come prepared, open, and humble enough to serve the bigger picture.
Communicate how you like to work. Bring ideas. And be willing to let them go.
That’s true collaboration — and that’s how great performances (and great relationships) are built.
Sending you the biggest hug,
Natalia
If you enjoyed my blog and it resonated with you, I’d be truly grateful if you shared it on your social media so it might support other actors as well. My goal is to create a safe, encouraging space where actors can feel seen and supported.
