Steve Finn session 1:

If you don't do pre-preparation, you may not have everything you need when shooting the footage.

The Role of the Director:

Pre-preparation-
-Understand the script.
-Have a creative vison of the script.
-Try to solve any problems at this stage in liaison with the producer and script editor.
-Prepare ideas in advance of rehearsing with the cast- motivations, characterisations, blocking and camera scripting.

Rehearsals-
-Working with the cast to achieve a mutual vision of how the scene is to be played and staged.

After rehearsals-
-Create floor plans, camera plans and shot lists in the light of rehearsals.

At the start of the shoot-
-Inform the crew of the shooting plan.
-Create a good working atmosphere.

During the shoot-
-Be in charge.
-Allow all the cast and crew to have a creative input.
-Manage the time available.
-Finishing too early is a sign that you haven't used all your resources- you have no excuses if the end result is poor.
-Finishing too late is a sign of not being properly prepared or not being flexible when problems occur.

After the shoot-
-Brief your editor of your overall vision.
-Ensure that the best material is used wherever possible.
-Step back from the scene and take an objective view of your work.

At all times-
-Take a responsible attitude to the safety of those around you.

Most of the time, directors do not have their final say; the producers who are giving their money to the production have the final say and would often contradict the director's vision.