2. Director of Photography (DP)
The person-in-charge of the technical crew.
The DP makes decisions on lighting and framing of scenes
in conjunction with the film's director.
Typically, the director tells the DP how they want a shot to
look, and the DP chooses the correct aperture, filter, and
lighting to achieve the desired effect.
3. Camera Operator
He uses the camera at the direction of the DP or director to
capture the scenes on film.
Depending on the size and budget of the production, the
DP may also be the camera operator, which is usually the
case on TV and video projects.
4. 1st Camera Assistant (Focus Puller)
He is responsible for keeping the camera in focus
as it is shooting.
5. 2nd Camera Assistant (Clapper Loader)
He operates the clapperboard at the beginning of each
take and loads the raw film stock into the camera
magazines between takes.
This role does not exist on video shoots. The 1st Camera
Assistant will operate the clapperboard.
6. Gaffer
He is the Chief Lighting Technician, responsible for execution
of the lighting plan for the production.
Gaffers are responsible for knowing the appropriate color of
gel (plastic sheeting) to put on the lights or windows to
achieve a variety of effects, such as transforming midday into
a beautiful sunset. They can re-create the flicker of lights in a
subway car, the motion of light inside a turning airplane, or
the passage of night into day.
Many gaffers are expected to own a truck complete with most
basic lighting equipment and then rent extra lighting
equipment as needed.
7. Key Grip
He is the Chief Grip on the set, and works with the DP to
set up the set and achieve the correct lighting and
blocking.
He will direct a crew of grips, numbering ranging from 2
grips for small shoots up to 10-15 grips for big budget
productions.
8. Dolly Grip / Crane Operator
These specialized grips are trained to operate these
camera rigs used to perform complex camera
movements.
They work closely with the camera crew to perfect these
complex movements during rehearsals. Focusing the
lens is critical to capturing a sharp image, so a dolly grip
must hit his/her mark in sync with a camera assistant
who pulls focus.
The best dolly grips are known for their "touch" and that
makes them highly sought-after talents.
