Types of Grips
Key Grip: Head of the Grip Department
Best Boy: Foreman of the Grip Department, second in command
Grips: AKA company grips, a team of 6 or more grips working together
Dolly Grip: places and pushes a dolly, which is a track for a smooth, moving camera shot.
Production assistant: an apprentice learning grip skills and assisting on set
Key Grip Responsibilities
Grips manage equipment related to cameras, including cameras, tripods, dollies and lights. They figure out what equipment is needed, and locate each piece to be ready on set for filming days. They’ll unpack it, position it, and work with the director of photography to make sure each shot is well-lit, sharp, and beautiful.
Creativity, responsibility, and teamwork. Grips are the lifeblood of life on set, and no movie would get done without them!