Art direction

The creative process of designing and overseeing all the visual elements in a video, including sets, props, costumes, colour schemes, and overall aesthetic.

Art direction is what stops a video from looking generic. The art director works closely with the director to make sure every visual detail in the frame serves the concept. Even a low-budget shoot benefits enormously from considered art direction.

Art direction in the real world

Hype Williams’ videos for artists like Busta Rhymes and Missy Elliott in the late 1990s were defined by extreme wide-angle lenses, bright saturated palettes, and exaggerated props. That art direction created a distinct visual identity for an entire era of hip-hop videos and made Williams one of the most recognisable directors in the industry.

Related terms

Mood board, Stylist, Colour grade, Treatment, Concept video

Published on

Posted by

Categories:

Tagged: