I think most people don't know what a Gaffer is, but to the uninitiated, it's the head of the lighting and electrical department. We provide the power, lighting and placement of all of the lighting in a scene. Depending on the relationship with the Director of Photography, you are sometimes deciding all of those things, other times there's a give and take between what is requested, what you have and what the time and budget allows.
Lighting was one of the main reasons I picked up a camera. I still enjoy crafting beautiful light and strategizing on placement, size and modifiers. It's a tricky job, but its usually rewarding.
Here are some of my favorite projects as the Gaffer. And I would be remiss not to shout out to the electrical and grip brothers and sisters who helped make it happen.
Never underestimate the importance of a good Key Grip. The grip department gets a lot of the fun work; they shape the light with diffusion and solids, helping achieve that sweet sweet contrast ratio.
If you see an electric or grip on set, give em a hug. They do some hard shit and it's not always noticed or appreciated.
Make no mistake. They are like the spine of a production. And they are usually the most fun.
Sorry camera people. We get it. You've got a massive camera, fancy glass and a book about hyperfocal lengths. But if you need some levity, it's the G&E department that's got you covered.
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