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Video Production Glossary
Grip
Grips are lighting and rigging technicians in the film and video production
industries. They make up their own department on a film set and are led by a
key grip. Grips have two main functions. The first is to work closely with
the camera department, especially if the camera is mounted to a dolly, crane
or other unusual position. Some grips may specialize in operating camera
dollies or camera cranes. The second is to work closely with the electrical
department to put in the lighting set-ups necessary for a shot.
The term 'grip' dates back to the early era of the circus. From there it was
used in vaudeville and then in today's film sound stages and sets. Some have
suggested the name comes from the 1930s-40s slang term for a tool bag or
"grip" that these technicians use to carry their tools to work. Another
popular theory states that in the days of hand-cranked cameras, it would be
necessary for a few burly men to hang on to the tripod legs to stop
excessive movement of the camera. These men became known as the 'good
grips'- as they were constantly being instructed to 'keep a good grip on the
tripod'.
U.S. grips may belong to the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage
Employes. Canadian grips may also belong to IATSE or to Canada's other
professional trade unions including Toronto's Nabet 700, or Vancouver's ACFC.
British grips usually belong to BECTU (Broadcasting Entertainment
Cinematograph & Theatre Union).
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