The Art Behind The Shot

Intro to Camera, Electrical, and Grip

TIE STORY TELLERS TOGETHER

STORY SCRIPT -

COMMON CONNECTION

a. 8th breakdown

b. 1 page ~ 1 minute screen time

c. 120 page ~ 120 minute movie

d. 55 lines per page, about 1 second per line plus pauses

e. EXT/INT - LOCATION - DAY/NIGHT

STORY TELLING

a. Writer

b. Director

c. Prod Designer

d. ATL Actors

e. Editor

SETTING OF STORY'S SET

PRODUCER AND PRODUCTION CO.

a. Funding and financing - Producer

b. Hiring and acquiring - Production Manager

c. Scheduling and coordinating - Production Coordinator

d. Movement - Teamster Captain

1AD "ON-SET" -

SETUP OF THE SCENE

a. 1st Team Rehearsal

b. 2nd Team Blocking

c. Lighting

d. Picture Up

e. Rolling

f. Review

2AD "OFF-SET"

The setup to the setup of the scene.

THE CAPTURE OF

THE STORY

a. Directing Photographer

b. Operators

c. 1AC

d. 2AC

e. DIT

f. VTR

g. DM/Loader

h. Still Photographer

i. Audio Mixer (M1)/ Audio Assitant (M2)

THE LIGHTING TEAM (ELECTRIC)

a. Gaffer

b. Gaffer’s Best Boy

c. Electrical Techs

THE SUPPORTERS

(GRIPS)

a. Key Grip

b. Key Grip’s Best Boy

c. Grips

THE POST, DEALING WITH WHAT'S BEEN CAPTURED

a. Editor

i. Asst Editor

ii. Script Supervisor

b. Scorer

c. Colorist

d. Conformist

What Jobs are in this Department?

  • Director of Photography - (DP) or "Cinematographer" works closely with the director to establish the overall visual style and aesthetic of the film. As the chief of the camera and lighting crew, the cinematographer oversees the camera operator, camera assistants, and lighting technicians to ensure that the equipment and lighting are properly used to achieve the desired visual effect.

  • Camera Operator - Physically controlling and moving the camera to capture each shot, working closely with the DP and Director for executing the creative vision through the lens. Ensuring each shot is captured with the right technique, composition, and movement. Responsible for the technical operation of the camera.

  • 1st Assistant Camera - (1st AC), also known as a Focus Puller in charge of keeping a subject in focus for a shot’s duration or racking focus mid-shot. Assisting the Camera Operator and DP with setting up and maintaining camera equipment, including loading/unloading gear. Updating the camera report (dope sheet) to track scenes shot, film stock used, and reels exposed.

  • Gaffer - Runs the Grip/Electric crew and supervises lighting technicians, best boys, set electricians, and lamp operators. Works closely with the Director and DP to achieve the desired lighting look and feel for each scene. Develops a plan for lighting every scene, requiring strong technical knowledge and creative insight.

  • Best Boy Electric - Works closely with the Gaffer to implement the lighting plan and coordinate the setup of lights and equipment. Responsible for hiring and supervising the electrical crew, including electricians and lighting technicians. They ensure that all necessary equipment is available, functioning properly, and safely deployed on set.

  • Key Grip - Works with DP to determine the necessary equipment and personnel for each scene. Conducts site visits to assess the location’s suitability and identifying potential challenges for camera placement and movement. Hires and coordinates the transportation of necessary equipment, as well as arranging its setup and positioning on set.

  • Best Boy Grip - Reports to the Key Grip and assists in planning and executing camera movements and lighting setups. Manages the grip inventory, coordinates equipment loading and unloading, and schedules grip personnel for each shot. Resolves technical issues that arise on set, ensuring the safe operation of cranes, dollies, and other equipment.

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