Film grips work on a team that assembles and builds all the equipment necessary to support a camera. This equipment includes tripods, jibs, cranes, and static rigs. Film grip equipment requires a high level of expertise and safety to operate. The equipment used by grips can be as simple as a tripod on a studio floor to as complex as a 100-foot crane suspended from a helicopter. Read this article to learn about different types of film grip equipment.
Gaffer tape
Gaffer tape is a multi-purpose tool essential for film and television productions. It can be used in many different ways on set, including to line the floor for a scene, hold down equipment, or label actors’ marks. Gaffer tape is generally black, but many different colors are available, including neon tape, which is visible under blacklight.
Gaffer tape comes in different colors, which is useful for filming because it can be used for color coding. Various colored tapes help the film crew label gear and containers easily and help them to identify actors’ positions. Additionally, different colored tapes don’t reflect light, making it easier to identify locations.
C-Wrench
A C-Wrench is a handy tool to have on hand for rigging jobs. Film grips often cling to a ladder or other equipment while working. The C-Wrench is necessary for rigging jobs and should be carried with the film grip at all times. Many grips consider it an essential tool that should be carried in their tool belt, as it can be extremely handy while climbing ladders.
Spring “A” clamps
Spring clamps are commonly used in carpentry but can also be used on various projects. They’re useful for holding photographs or fabric and are cheap to purchase. Mini clamps are useful for small projects, and larger clamps are best for larger projects.
C-Stand
The C-Stand is a versatile and indispensable tool for film grips. It can be used for various purposes, such as supporting a heavy gobo. Its use is critical for film productions, especially those shooting in dark locations. It helps keep a crew safe while filming. To use it properly, learn the proper technique and learn on-the-job training. To use it safely, you must set the grip head locking knob to one side, then turn it clockwise until the locking knob turns fully clockwise. It’s very important to follow this rule because failure can cause the gear to fall.
