Film/TV Director Patrick Cady, ASC: Managing the Set

What Will You Learn?

• In this course, students will learn the essential leadership, communication, and storytelling skills required to successfully manage a film or television set. Through Patrick Cady ASC’s real-world experiences as a director and cinematographer, learners will understand how to:
• Build a positive, collaborative atmosphere on set and lead without yelling or fear-based direction.
• Prepare emotionally and technically before stepping onto set to earn the trust of cast and crew.
• Translate emotional beats from the script into blocking, shot choices, and camera movement.
• Conduct efficient rehearsals, read-throughs, blocking sessions, and planning meetings (including tone meetings).
• Work with actors, unlock performances, and give direction concisely – especially under time pressure.
• Collaborate effectively with cinematographers, editors, writers, and department heads.
• Maintain emotional continuity when shooting scenes out of order.
• Solve story problems in prep and adjust blocking or staging to fix narrative issues.
• Navigate real-set challenges such as crew dynamics, technical limitations, tight schedules, and unexpected changes.