BEST BOY

BEST BOY

• People that are not familiar with “The gaffer’s handbook” may not know where the name of this particular position comes from.

• Back in the days there was an electrician, usually the older and/or the more experienced one (eventually then the “best boy”), who was in charge of coordinating the team of lighting technicians, deal with logistics and rental houses, liaise with those and the film production company and so on.

• To make the long story short, as he was also known, he would be the assistant chief lighting technician, the gaffer’s right hand.

• At Camaleón Rental we know and trust several best boys who works with gaffers on regular basis, so you can be one hundred percent positive that their team-work and mutual understanding in bulletproof. Hiring a reliable best boy is an insurance policy for the production company, because he is also in charge to take care of the gear and keep it in order.

• Aside of that they also liaise with people responsible for the buildings on locations, the first assistant director on schedule and timing, special effects director for stunt scenes and art director for… everything else! So, if you want our two cents, on this too, rely on Camaleón Rental!

• The Best Boy is the second-in-command in the lighting department on a film set, reporting directly to the gaffer (chief lighting technician). The Best Boy’s primary role is to assist in the management of the electrical crew and equipment, ensuring that all aspects of lighting are executed smoothly and efficiently. Here are the main functions of a Best Boy:

• Supervise the lighting crew: The Best Boy oversees the daily tasks of the lighting crew, making sure everyone is clear on their assignments and working efficiently.

• Coordinate schedules: This includes managing shift schedules, breaks, and ensuring that enough crew members are on set to handle the lighting setup or changes throughout the shoot.

• Assign tasks: They allocate specific jobs to electricians based on the needs of the production and the gaffer’s instructions.

• Manage lighting equipment: The Best Boy is responsible for organizing, maintaining, and deploying all lighting equipment on set. This includes setting up lights, managing dimmers, and adjusting lighting positions as needed.

• Oversee equipment rentals and returns: They ensure that all lighting equipment is properly ordered, delivered, and returned after the production. This includes tracking inventory and handling rental paperwork.

• Maintenance of equipment: They ensure all lighting gear is functional, performing routine checks and organizing repairs or replacements as necessary.

• Power management on set: The Best Boy is responsible for setting up and distributing electrical power to all lighting and electrical equipment on set. They ensure that power needs are met without overloading circuits or causing safety issues.

• Cable management: Oversee the safe routing of cables and ensure that electrical wiring is organized and doesn’t create hazards on set.

• Generator management: If the production uses generators, the Best Boy manages their setup and ensures they run properly to provide the necessary power for lights and other equipment.

• Ensure electrical safety: The Best Boy is responsible for making sure all electrical setups meet safety standards, ensuring that the set is free from electrical hazards like exposed wires or overloaded circuits.

• Adhere to regulations: They ensure that all electrical equipment is set up in accordance with local electrical codes and union regulations, keeping the production safe and compliant with industry standards.

• Coordinate with the gaffer: The Best Boy acts as the gaffer’s right-hand person, ensuring that the lighting plan is executed as envisioned. They communicate any changes or challenges that may arise with lighting setups.

• Collaborate with other departments: They work closely with the camera department, grip department, and other teams to ensure the lighting integrates seamlessly into the overall production setup.

• Track expenses and manage the lighting budget: The Best Boy helps the gaffer manage the lighting department’s budget,ensuring that all equipment and crew expenses are within financial limits.

• Manage paperwork: This includes handling time sheets, rental agreements, inventory logs, and any necessary forms related to the lighting department’s operations.

• Resolve technical issues: The Best Boy is often called upon to troubleshoot problems with lighting setups, power issues, or equipment malfunctions on set.

• Adapt lighting plans: They must quickly adapt to changes in the production, whether it’s due to a change in the director’s vision or an unforeseen technical issue.

• Assist with pre-production planning: The Best Boy works with the gaffer during pre-production to assess lighting needs, plan power distribution, and order the necessary equipment.

• Scout locations: They may visit shooting locations in advance to evaluate power availability and the logistical challenges of setting up lighting in different environments.

• In summary, the Best Boy is a crucial role within the lighting department, responsible for managing the lighting crew, handling equipment logistics, ensuring safe and effective power distribution, and maintaining the smooth operation of all lighting-related activities on a film set. They are a key link between the gaffer and the lighting team, ensuring that the director of photography's vision is realized while maintaining technical efficiency and safety.