Grip Department

The Grip Department is responsible for mounting, moving, and constructing rigging for production. They work closely with the Camera Department to provide camera support and the Lighting Department to create set-ups necessary for a shot under the direction of the Director of Photography. The Grip Department is responsible for all camera equipment such as tripods, dollies, tracks, jibs, and cranes.

Recommended Skills for working in the Grip Department:

  • Innovative, organized, calm under pressure and able to solve problems

  • Ability to multitask and take instruction

  • Attention to detail and strong communications skills

  • Enjoy working outdoors and be in good physical condition

A combination of demonstrated skills such as carpentry, rigging, mechanics and electrical theory. Knowledge of camera equipment, scaffolding, lighting, tracks, dollies and camera cars.

+ Key Grip

The Key Grip works with the Director of Photography and the Gaffer to determine the equipment needed for purchase or rental for the production. They delegate work within the Grip Department and ensure the safe use of Grip equipment.

+ Dolly Grip/Crane Operator

The Dolly Grip is responsible for the movement of cameras on set, including the safe operation of special equipment like the dolly, jib arm or crane. Tasks include building, maintaining and returning the equipment. The Crane Operator is responsible for the operation of cranes needed for production.

+ Grip Best

The Grip Best is responsible for the administrative work within the department such as completing thedaily and weekly reports, managing petty cash, purchasing materials, assisting with pre-rigging, booking equipment and daily crew, keeping inventory and returning equipment.

+ Lead Grip

The Lead Grip assists the Key Grip on set and should be able to take the place of the Key Grip if needed. The Lead Grip works under the direction of the Key Grip and the Director of Photography. They place and adjust lighting control and reflective materials, rig lighting fixtures that are not on stands and assist the Dolly Grip when needed. The Lead Grip shall have good knowledge of all grip equipment and related materials.

+ Grip Crew

The Grip Crew assists the Key Grip, Grip Best and Lead Grip.

+ Key Rigging Grip

The Key Rigging Grip is responsible for pre-rigging equipment. They work with the Rigging Gaffer to secure lighting fixtures on location and in studios.

+ Rigging Grip Best

The Rigging Grip Best assists in pre-rigging as directed by the Key Rigging Grip.

+ Rigging Grip Crew

The Rigging Grip Crew assist in the rigging of equipment on set as directed by the Key Rigging Grip or Rigging Grip Best.

+ Crane Technician

The Crane Technician is responsible for the assembly and safe operation of the crane.

+ Camera Car Operator

The Camera Car Operator is responsible for safe delivery of the camera car and process trailer to the set. Tasks include rigging safety belts, guard rails, camera, lighting fixtures on the camera car and process trailer. They also place vehicles on the process trailer and drive the camera car.

 

Minimum Qualifications for the Grip Department:

Non-Union Recommendations

For further information:

 

Questions?

Fill out On Screen Manitoba’s Workforce Development Intake Form to schedule a consultation with the Workforce Development Liaison.