grip
grip
/ɡrɪp/
A technician on a film set who supervises all camera-mounting and support equipment, as well as non-electrical lighting modifiers.
Focuses on the physical rigging, safety, and mechanical support of cameras and light-shaping tools, distinct from electrical work.
The story behind the word. The term comes from the physical act of gripping. In the early days of cinema, camera operators needed strong assistants to physically hold, move, and secure the heavy camera equipment and wooden stands, leading to the designation of these crew members as 'grips'.
Word relationships
- rigging technician: A broader term that can apply to theater or construction, whereas 'grip' is highly specific to film and television.
Commonly confused with
- gaffer: A gaffer manages the electrical lights, while a grip manages the physical stands, flags, and camera mounts.
Word family
- gripping (verb): The work of setting up camera supports and light modifiers on a set.
Collocations
- key grip
- best boy grip
- dolly grip
Example sentences
- "The key grip supervised the installation of the dolly tracks to ensure the camera glided smoothly during the long tracking shot." An account of a complex camera movement during a movie shoot.
Memory hook
The 'grip' is the person who physically 'grips' and secures the heavy camera gear and stands so nothing falls. Grip: Gripping the gear to keep the camera steady.
When not to use
Do not confuse with the physical act of holding something, though the name derives from it; on set, 'grip' is a specific professional title.
Fun facts
- The assistant to the key grip is called the 'best boy grip', a term originating from old English apprentice systems where the chief's top assistant was called his 'best boy'.
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