Early in my career, a director gave me a great compliment. After returning to the room after leaving me editing on my own for a while, and then viewing what I'd done while he was away, he said it was like he was still in the room with me. In other words, I embraced his vision and earned his trust. I've always been served well over the years by adopting the director's vision as my own. I never hesitate to offer my suggestions, but when the director makes a decision, whatever it is, I'm okay with it-no ego. In the end, it's the director's show.

When creative differences arise, I take a deep breath and remember that we're both passionate about telling a great story. I listen attentively to the director's vision, asking questions to understand their perspective. Then, I share my editing insights, explaining why I made certain choices. I offer alternative solutions, finding common ground and compromise. If needed, I suggest testing both approaches to see what works best. By maintaining open communication, respect, and a willingness to collaborate, we can merge our creative visions and craft a video that exceeds our expectations. After all, it's about creating something amazing together!

Here’s a gem of wisdom, or at least how I consider it to be, for any collaborative creative process. In the past 2 decades of collaborative creative processes I’d learned that your north star should guide you to “common/mutual decision”. That means several things: 1. Be very careful not to offhandedly discard others opinions or things they insist on, even if they feel preposterous to you. Be sure that there is some truth in other’s opinion. 2. We usually disagree on external manifestation of the idea, but if you go to the depths of understanding what the other party want, and to the depths of what you want — you will find the mutual decision and it’s appropriate and fitting manifestation. 3. Mutual decision is *always* better!

Divergências de opiniões fazem parte de um trabalho em conjunto. O importante na minha visão são três pontos principais: - Comunicação transparente e clara: coloque suas opiniões de maneira assertiva sem ter uma comunicação agressiva. Explique os pontos de vista e os escute também - Tentem encontrar pontos em comum e trazer exemplos para tornar o produto final mais palpável - Seja maleável, porque a entrega de um trabalho não pode ser uma briga de quem vence, mas sim o resultado final

Creative differences with the director is definitely a delicate situation. After all, a project is usually viewed as the director’s baby and some of these directors out there are very posessive! The key is to listen actively, find common ground, and be willing to compromise. Frame disagreements as constructive feedback, focusing on the project's goals and don’t take anything personal. If tensions rise, consider involving a neutral third party to mediate( i.e: claim it’s what the client wants JK) Always remember, collaboration is key and the sucess of the project lies within both of your hands!

In my experience, navigating creative differences with a director starts with clear communication. I always make an effort to understand their vision and expectations, asking detailed questions to align my editing with their goals. Once, I had a situation where the director and I had contrasting ideas about the pacing of a scene. I suggested creating two versions—one aligned with their vision and another reflecting my perspective. This approach helped us evaluate both ideas objectively and choose the stronger one. Staying open to feedback, being solution-focused, and keeping the project’s overall success as the priority has always helped me collaborate effectively.

Effective communication is key. Clearly articulate your vision, actively listen to their feedback, and find common ground. If differences persist, suggest a compromise or present multiple options. Ultimately, the goal is to create the best possible product, and a collaborative approach is often the most effective.

The most important thing is to understand the vision the director has for the project. This will in turn help you as the editor to apply your skills as needed to ensure oneness in the delivery of the project. However, when it comes to handling your differences, communication needs to happen often and ensure it is effective so as to move forward.