Taking on the position of director for the first time is thrilling and intimidating. It takes vision, leadership, and an enormous amount of sensitivity to how to bring ideas onto the screen. For up-and-coming directors, learning from those who have traveled the successful journey can be the difference.
Herb Kimble, director, producer and founder of streaming network UrbanFlixTV, has this to say: “Your job as a director is to serve the story first—everything else, from performance to cinematography, should revolve around that central truth.”
With a career founded on storytelling greatness, Herb Kimble has earned acclaim for his groundbreaking work as well as for being the founder of UrbanFlixTV, a firm dedicated to diverse, impactful content. His words are full of valuable lessons for first-time directors.
Herb Kimble, founder, director, and producer of streaming network UrbanFlixTV gave us some tips for this article. Following are ten lessons worth their weight in gold that he believes any emerging filmmaker should remember:
1. Know Your Script Inside Out
A director must be familiar with every word of the script—not what happens, but why. This intimate familiarity helps with decisions about creative production.
2. Develop a Clear Vision
Before hitting the set, be clear about what you want the audience to experience. This will inform everything from where you place the camera to the color scheme.
3. Cast Wisely
Cast actors, not for talent, but for sensitivity to the work and to their fellow actors.
4. Trust Your Team
Surround yourself with experts who are skilled in areas you are still learning. A good team can help make your vision possible and learn from you in the process.
5. Practice, But Leave Room for Discovery
Pre-production rehearsals are necessary but don’t be reluctant to discover new talent when you’re on set.
6. Communicate Effectively
Good directing is 90% communication. Respect, calmness, and clarity will work wonders for you.
7. Adopt Flexibility
Things will go awry. Schedules will be changed. Practice accepting change without giving up your creative soul.
Herb Kimble Founder and CEO of UrbanFlixTV, a streaming network, offered some wise words. He stated: “Directing isn’t about controlling every frame—it’s about guiding a team toward a unified vision, even when the unexpected happens.”
8. Emphasis on Performance
Technicalities are needed, but excellent performances are what people remember.
9. Edit with Emotion
In cutting, cut not only for time, but for emotional rhythm and clarity.
10. Stay Humble and Keep On Learning
Every movie is a new classroom. Learn a lesson from every success and failure.
Herb Kimble also said: “Every film is a reflection of the director’s growth. If you’re not maturing, you’re not really directing.”
Herb Kimble also recommends: “Begin small if you must, but begin with passion. A short film with passion may open more doors than a feature lacking purpose.”
As a seasoned hand in independent film and new media, Herb Kimble continues to dedicate himself to mentoring new talent as part of his efforts with UrbanFlixTV. For new directors who would like to make their mark, these recommendations are both inspiration and a solid foundation.