A gaffer is responsible for lighting on a movie set, managing the lighting crew, setting up and operating all lighting equipment, as well as adjusting light levels and color temperatures.
In the world of filmmaking, there are numerous roles that contribute to the final product. Two key positions that play significant roles in the production process are the Gaffer and the Dolly Grip.
The Gaffer, as listed in the movie credits, is the head electrician on a film set. This individual is responsible for the lighting aspects of a production, working closely with the Director of Photography (DP) or cinematographer. The Gaffer goes through the script and makes notes of possible special lighting situations and what equipment might be needed. They are also in charge of writing up and sticking to a budget for the electric department.
The Gaffer's crew, including the second-in-command known as the Best Boy, handles the physical and technical labor that makes the DP's vision into reality. The Gaffer usually gets to pick his or her own crew.
On the other hand, the Dolly Grip is a crew member responsible for operating a camera dolly, which moves the camera along a track or on wheels. The Dolly Grip's main responsibility is to smoothly move the camera in various positions as directed by the director or the cinematographer. Unlike the Gaffer, the Dolly Grip is not mentioned as having a budgeting responsibility.
The positions of both the Gaffer and Dolly Grip have their roots in the early days of cinema, around the 1910s to 1920s, as film production grew and the need for specialized lighting professionals and camera operators became necessary. In British theater, the term 'Gaffer' was used to describe the man who adjusted the lighting.
The salaries for both positions can vary significantly depending on the scale of the production. For a 12-week shoot on a big-budget film, a Gaffer can earn anywhere from $35,000 to $45,000. The salary of a Dolly Grip is not provided in the current paragraph.
For a more in-depth look at the roles of these crew members, you may find the following articles helpful: 'How Becoming a Movie Director Works', 'How Cinematographers Work', 'What does a Best Boy do?', 'What does a Film Editor do?'. Understanding these roles can provide valuable insight into the complex process of filmmaking.
