What is a Gaffer?
On a film set, every crew member is important and needs to work together to bring the movie to life. These crew members range from producers, directors, gaffers, and key grip to lighting technicians. Another extremely important member of the film production crew is the gaffer. These crew members lead the electrical department and make sure that all the lighting and power are placed in the right locations and are working properly.
Gaffers coordinate with the Key Grip on rigging in the studio and on location. If you are interested in getting into this exciting field, here are some of their responsibilities, and some advice on how to become a gaffer.
What does a Gaffer do?
Gaffers traditionally handle everything that is electrical on set including generators, power distribution, and lighting. A gaffer is essentially the chief lighting and electricity technician on the set. They are responsible for the lighting and must work closely with the director of photography and other crew members to create the desired effect. Gaffers must be skilled in both electrical work and lighting design. They must be able to work quickly and efficiently and must be able to think on their feet.
Essentially, the job of a gaffer is split into two phases- the production and pre-production phase.
Pre-production
Before the filming starts, a gaffer reads the scripts and looks over the storyboard, and takes notes of any lighting needed for the main production. The gaffer then meets up with all of the department heads to discuss the production needs for each location at this time the DP and the gaffer discuss in detail the various lighting scenarios for each location. Typically, the key grip will be involved in these discussions as well and would coordinate with the gaffer on executing the various lighting setups. Together they come up with a plan to execute based on the storyline and production budget.
Now, the gaffer assembles all the lighting crew depending on the size of the shoot. It consists of, best boy electric, and set electricians. The gaffer works with his best boy to develop the lighting package and order all lighting equipment including generators, power distribution, and lighting. Generally, the gaffer will coordinate with the best boy to give him the notes from the scout and discuss the placement of the power distribution and lighting. The best boy will handle securing the lighting crew and the majority of the paperwork.
Production
During the production stage, the gaffer will instruct his crew on the placement of all lighting instruments. They are constantly working the scene to observe how the lighting looks, making adjustments, and communicating exposure readings with the DP. However, it does not stop there. The gaffer monitors the lighting and makes sure everyone is on the same page. Gaffer will continuously communicate with the lighting crew all throughout the shoot.
What Does a Gaffer Bring to a Job?
A gaffer is responsible for the technical aspects of filming. These aspects include managing the lighting, electric rigging, and electrical equipment and ensuring everything is set up properly before and during shooting. They bring management skills and technical know-how to the job. Extensive attention to detail is very important in this job because a gaffer breaks down each scene in the shoot mixing art and science to create the best possible lighting. They also have to ensure that the entire look and feel of the shoot is consistent. Basically, gaffers must be creative and technical. They also need to be able to communicate and coordinate properly.
Set Etiquette
One important aspect of any position on a film set is knowing how to properly present yourself on set. Being professional is an important part of being a gaffer, as a department head, you need to conduct yourself and make sure you and your crew are falling into line as film sets have a hierarchy. You are on the job and need to act accordingly!
How do you get Into Gaffing?
So you want to be a gaffer? You have to work yourself up in the ranks to become a gaffer, often aspiring directors of photography start out as gaffers and then move their way up in the ranks. Having a well round knowledge of all departments is helpful, as a gaffer you start up as an electrician then you work your way up through the electrical department. Working as a grip can also be beneficial when working yourself up in the ranks. It is important to understand how the two teams work together is important and can help you move up and into gaffing.
Go to your local film school or community college and take a course in lighting and cinematography.
Get involved with your local film community and start networking and/or interning on sets.
Research the industry and familiarize yourself with the latest gear and know their common applications.
Start building your portfolio and apply for jobs as an electrician.
Keep learning and expanding your skillset, and progressing through the ranks.
If you are interested in becoming a gaffer, you can choose to first gain experience as a production assistant. There are many ways to do this, including working as a production assistant working on short films or student projects. Becoming a gaffer is serious work, so you need to be ready to put in the work.
How Important Are Gaffers?
Gaffers are important members of a film crew, and they are responsible for a variety of tasks. They work closely with the director of photography to ensure the lighting is just right. Gaffers serve as a bridge between the director of photography and the lighting crew. Without their input, the lighting of the set would not be consistent.
Also, since gaffers are the chief lighting technicians, they have a managerial role on set, making sure all lighting plans are executed accordingly. Without gaffers, a film production would not be able to run smoothly. They are an essential part of any film crew, and their contributions are invaluable.
Conclusion
Gaffers play a vitally important role on set. They are responsible for the look and feel of the finished product and work closely with the director and cinematographer to achieve the desired results.
Gaffing is a highly specialized field, and it takes years of experience to become a master gaffer. If you're serious about entering this field, you need to be willing to put in the time and effort necessary to learn the ropes.
