Key Grip
The Key Grip oversees the execution of camera positioning, mounting, movements and manoeuvers for all cameras in order to achieve the production requirements. He/She is responsible for supervising the installation of structures and equipment that will help achieve the special camera movements required. He also executes the camera positioning, mounting, movements and manoeuvers for the main camera. During rehearsals, he is required to monitor the camera movements and propose changes that will enhance the quality of the shoot. He needs to be creative and inventive in order to manage the mounting of equipment and camera for difficult shots. The work involves physically demanding tasks especially the handling of the heavy equipment used in the construction of the structures. He may be required to work outdoors and may be required to travel depending on the location of the shoot or production. He should possess knowledge of the camera and mounting equipment construction structures as well as the camera effects from the different construction structures. He is required to possess effective teamwork, be diplomatic and tactful when working with the crew to achieve the creative vision. He is also required to have strong people management capabilities in order to lead the grip team and provide additional coaching when required.
Skills and Competencies
Technical Skills & Competencies
Generic Skills & Competencies
Critical Work Functions and Key Tasks
• Attend pre-production meetings with the creative team to determine the special equipment needed during the shoot
• Analyse production schedule to understand day-wise grip operations and special equipment requirements
• Identify crew requirements for each day of production using the camera and grip equipment list for the day
• Prepare a detailed list of requirements for each day including special equipment and crew
• Understand the special apparatus required for mounting cameras for specific shots that may not be part of standard equipment by
collaborating with production teams
• Oversee the installation of structures required for grip operations as per production requirements
• Devise specialised apparatus for holding camera or enabling camera movements for special camera shots as per the production
requirements
• Prepare motion sequences for dollies, cranes and other apparatus involved in camera motion
• Brief grip crew regarding roles and responsibilities as well as motion sequences for allocated equipment
• Supervise the positioning of equipment such as scrims, reflectors and flags that are used for creating light and shadow effects for
production by collaborating with the lighting team on-set
• Refine camera positioning and movement during rehearsals to achieve the exact framing requirements for the scene by collaborating
with the camera team
• Communicate camera choreography to production crew who are directly involved in shoot
• Oversee grip operations by monitoring movements and functionality of cameras mounted on cranes, dollies and other specialist
apparatus
• Supervise the positioning of scrims, reflectors and flags that diffuse light, create shadow and other lighting effects by collaborating with
the lighting and camera team leaders on-set
• Oversee adherence of safety and health norms on-set during production