Fisrt time on a Creditable Production as a Grip

Donald Harvey

Donald Harvey

Active member
Hello,

I wanted to ask everyone if they could give me some advice as to being a grip. As you read from the title, it is my first time on a Crediable Film. I have been a grip before but not for a film production. I have been a Grip for sports productions, watching the camera operators cables, as well as everything going on around him. From setting up lighting for interviews, on the sideline to in studio sets.

But I know that a grip on a TV/Sports/Interviews is similar to a Grip on a Film production, however it is different in ways also. In any event, I want to do a well as possible, so some advice to make sure that goal is achieved would be fantastic!!!

Thank you for the help!

DH
 
Look busy. Keep the set tidy. Dress cables, make safety checks, keep the C-stands nested, etc. Don't wait for something to happen, anticipate it.
 
Always think of the best way to rig something with the least equipment. As Key Grip, which I assume you are, you are in charge of safety on the set. Rig everything so that it couldn't possibly hurt someone.

Do you have your own grip equipment?

You'll need clamps, studs, flags, silks, C stands, ect.

Gripping is like playing with legos you're always building things. I love it.
 
1. Show up a bit early for the call.

2. Be polite. Use please and thanks.

3. Let people do their job.

4. Be humble.

5. Ask questions about assignments if in doubt.

6. Watch what's going on in YOUR department.

7. Make your superior look good.

8. Don't embarrass anyone.

9. Don't be a "hero".

10.Listen very carefully before you leap.

11.Learn and use peoples names.

12.Work hard and willingly.
 
Don't piss off the producer, director, DP or Keys.

Be resourceful, and most of all INTELLIGENT. Some of the smartest people I know are grips, it really drives me insane when people buy into the false stereotype about grips and what kind of people they are and what they can bring to a production. To be a great grip, you had better be really smart and really innovative. You have to look at problems and challenges in rigging, moving lights and cameras and be able to solve those issues with a clever solution that nobody else would have ever thought of.

Dan
 
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