My Directing Philosophy

by Anthony J. Gonzales,

My directing philosophy is always story-first. I begin every project by asking a single question: “What is the tone of this project?” That tone becomes the touchstone from which everything else flows.

From there, I build the style, look, feel, and the rules for filming the show, always collaborating closely with the showrunner, production company, and network. Once we are aligned, I use my style guide to hire the team best suited to execute that vision.

With the team in place, I apply precise planning and visual innovation—whether integrating NeRF to achieve impossible camera moves, leveraging AI tools for smarter prep and visualization, or choosing gear (like a compact HD handycam on Dance Moms) that serves both form and function to best capture the story.

I don’t believe in flash  for the sake of it. My job is to ensure every visual choice heightens emotion, every technical decision supports authenticity, and every team member has what they need to elevate the storytelling. It’s not about style for style’s sake—it’s about clarity in what best serves the show.

The goal is always the same: deliver television that doesn’t just entertain, but resonates visually, emotionally, and memorably.