Job Description
One of the lesser-known film professions are those of the variety technicians who work on set. As Grip, for example, you are in charge of building heavy constructions, rigging and securing the equipment behind the scenes. It is a very important and difficult job, which requires a lot of physical strength.
Rigging on film production means any equipment that helps lift or hoist other equipment. As a grip you specialize in: 1. camera rigs in order to stabilize camera movement and achieve specific angles as well as 2. lighting rigs in order to achieve specific lighting techniques and effects.
The grip crew is led by the key grip and the ‘best boy’, who is second-in-command.
A key grip works with the cinematographer to determine the camera set-ups and lighting equipment that are required to bring the film to life.
As a film technician you might also work as a Gaffer. In this role you will be the head of the electrical department and will take care of all the lighting on set. In this case you work closely with the Cinematographer to understand the desired light effects and to make a plan how to achieve them.
The gaffer’s second-in-command is the best boy electric, who helps the gaffer lead the lighting technicians.
Grip:
- Setting up any moving camera equipment and rigs that the cinematographer needs
- Operating camera dollies or cranes
- Setting up any lighting rigs the lighting technicians need
- Setting up and operating any other non-electrical lighting equipment, for example diffusing materials
- Securing the Cinematographer during filming with any moving camera equipment
Gaffer :
- Reading the script and make notes of any special lighting needs
- Meeting with the Director and the Director of photography to determine their vision for the lighting
- Creating an electrical and lighting plan
- in-depth understanding of circuits, power supplies, cables, fuses, heating, lighting etc
- Setting up and controlling the lights on set and figuring out the fastest way to change their positions between the shots
- taking care of electrical safety on set
- Communication skills
- Creative problem-solving abilities
- Ability to work under pressure
- conflict management
- Self-discipline
- Film terminology and commands on set
- Basic camera and lighting equipment knowledge
Cinematographer, 1 AC, 2 AC, Director, 1 AD, Producer and other heads of departments
Set up Situation
Fellow electrician starts working at a big movie studio as a lighting technician. He soon finds out that the studio is recruiting lighting and rigging technicians for the next big film project and offers to recommend you. The job is not easy but is well paid and it’s possible to grow in hierarchy.