The Key Grip

The key grip is chief of the grip department on a film set and manages a team of grips. The grip department is responsible for setting up, maintaining and/or operating production equipment such as:

• Scaffolding
• Cranes and platforms
• Dolly tracks
• Cameras cars
• Lighting equipment (USA & Canada)

Note: In Britain the term grip applies specifically to camera-mounting equipment, not lighting.

The key grip often acts as construction coordinator, and works closely with the gaffer and cinematographer on tasks such as creating lighting effects.

The key grip also often acts as the set safety monitor.