With McCollum shouldering some of the administrative burden, White was free to pursue his first love: directing. He began directing the Columbia shorts in 1938 and would become the department's most prolific director. He directed his sound films as though they were silent comedies: he paced the visual action very fast, and he coached his actors to gesture broadly and react painfully, even demonstrating the movements and grimaces he wanted.
White was able to pursue his passion for directing after McCollum took on some administrative duties. He began directing Columbia shorts in 1938 and became a highly successful director, known for his fast-paced visual style and emphasis on exaggerated acting.