KEY GRIP

KEY GRIP

• The famous film director of the fifties Douglas Sirk, author of probably some of the best melodramas in the history of cinema used to say that in film language there is a very close relationship between movement and emotion and we couldn't agree more. In this way, the figure of the machinist becomes extremely important in the film industry. The key grip is the person in charge of building and maintaining all the equipment to support and move the camera, making sure that the camera and accessories are fully secured to avoid any possible falls. Another of his duties is to push dollies and sliders, plus he and his team will also assemble the dolly tracks, so he is responsible for the camera movements on set. At Camaleón Rental we can offer qualified machinists who will move and secure your camera in all kinds of situations.

• The Chief Rigger (also known as Key Grip) is the leader of the grip or rigging department. This department is responsible for all the equipment that supports and modifies lighting, as well as camera movements. The chief rigger works closely with the director of photography (DP) and the gaffer to create and maintain the visual vision of the film. Here are the main functions of a chief cinematographer:

• Lead the team: The chief machinist leads the crew of grips, assigning tasks and overseeing their work to ensure that all the technical needs of the production are met.

• Assign responsibilities: Distributes specific responsibilities to the machinists, such as setting up cranes, dollies, tripods, and other camera and lighting support equipment.

• Coordination with Best Boy Grip: Works with the bestboy grip to manage day-to-day operations, including schedules, task assignments, and logistics.

• Camera equipment setup and operation: Oversees the setup and operation of camera support equipment such as dollies, cranes, rails, tripods and steadicams, to enable smooth and controlled camera movements.

• Camera move design: Works with the cinematographer and camera operator to plan and execute complex camera moves, such as dolly, crane, dolly and tracking shots, ensuring they are performed safely and efficiently.

• Camera rigging: Set up cameras in difficult or unusual locations, such as on moving vehicles, rooftops, or elevated platforms.

• Structure construction: The chief rigger is responsible for the construction of support structures, such as platforms, scaffolding and custom rigs, which are used to support camera equipment.

• Rigging safety: Ensures that all structures and equipment are properly set up and secured to prevent accidents, complying with safety regulations on set.

• Working with the DP and gaffer: Works closely with the DP to understand and execute the visual vision of the film. Also coordinates with the gaffer to integrate rigging and lighting structures on set.

• Coordination with the art department and direction: May collaborate with the art department to ensure that equipment and structures do not interfere with the aesthetics of the set or the action of the actors

• Equipment maintenance and organisation: Responsible for the inventory, maintenance and transportation of all grip equipment, ensuring that everything is in good working order and ready for use on set.

• Equipment rental and return: Manages the rental of additional equipment if required, ensuring timely delivery, use and return, and handling associated documentation.

• Troubleshooting on set: Quickly addresses any technical issues related to grip equipment that may arise during filming, offering efficient and creative solutions.

• Ensuring safety: O versees the safety of all operations related to grip equipment, ensuring that all structures and supports are secure and comply with safety protocols, to protect the cast and crew.

• Pre-production: Participates in planning during pre-production, working with the DP and production team to identify equipment and logistical needs for planned scenes.

• Location coordination: Evaluates filming locations to identify logistical and technical challenges, planning how equipment will be set up and operated in those environments.

• Equipment dismantling: Oversees the dismantling of grip equipment after filming, ensuring that all equipment is properly uninstalled and packed.

• Transport Organisation: Coordinates the transport of grip equipment to the next set or location in a safe and efficient manner.

• The Chief Rigger is a pivotal role in the grip department, responsible for the safety, technical execution and logistics of all camera movements and rigging on set. Their work is vital to the creation of the visually stunning images that film productions require.