Gaffer
The Gaffer manages all lighting operations for a production. He/She is responsible for the planning and execution of lighting on set while ensuring the right lighting balance and continuity. He develops creative and innovative solutions and implements lighting plans including all aspects of the rig, scale drawings of all lights and their positions, power supply requirements and the lighting circuits to be used. He oversees the lighting crew's daily activities while keeping track of the budget. He oversees the operation of lights and light consoles and ensures lighting consistency. He conducts regular audits and puts in place risk assessment measures to ensure safety of the production. He is expected to operate in an outdoors environment, if required, and may be required to travel depending on the location of the shoot or production. The work requires awareness of all the workplace safety and health standards and alertness to potential safety hazards. He should be able to work effectively with other crew members and communicate clearly with them. He should also possess knowledge of electrical theories and practice. He has an eye for detail and possesses good color vision.
Skills and Competencies
Technical Skills & Competencies
Generic Skills & Competencies
Critical Work Functions and Key Tasks
• Determine special lighting requirements needed during the shoot by attending pre-production meetings with the creative team
• Analyse production schedule to understand day-wise lighting operations and special equipment requirements
• Identify crew requirements for each day of production based on the lighting equipment list for the day
• Prepare a detailed list of requirements by each day for lighting equipment and crew
• Provide the special mounting requirements for lighting apparatus for specific shots that may not be part of standard equipment by
collaborating with production teams
• Estimate realistic lighting requirements based on logistical and budgetary considerations
• Provide inputs for creative plans by estimating lighting costs, logistical requirements and location-based considerations
• Design the lighting plan for various shots based on the script and brief from the production team by collaborating with the creative
leadership team
• Recommend equipment specifications for the procurement of lighting equipment
Advise the crew on the set-up of lights, lighting fixtures, lighting controls including shapers, cutters, flags and other supporting
infrastructure
• Monitor the set-up of power management systems and wirings
• Manage the operation of lights, lighting consoles and related equipment
• Guide the lighting crew in the operations of lights and lighting consoles to enhance the visual appeal of the content
• Perform safety inspections to ensure that set is cleared and safe
• Enforce compliance to workplace safety and health standards during production
• Investigate root cause of breaches in workplace safety and health
• Oversee the wrap-up for all lighting equipment
• Ensure proper handling and storage of equipment for minimal damage and breakage
• Oversee the dismantling of power management systems and wirings, in compliance with workplace safety and health standards