Grip Equipment
Grip Equipment refers to the specialized tools and hardware used to position, mount, and control cameras and lighting equipment on film and television sets. Think of grips as the behind-the-scenes problem solvers who make sure cameras and lights can be placed exactly where directors need them, safely and securely. This equipment includes things like stands, clamps, poles, and rigging systems that help create smooth camera movements or position lights in hard-to-reach places. When you see credits roll and notice terms like "Key Grip" or "Grip Department," these are the professionals who specialize in using this equipment.
Examples in Resumes
Managed and maintained Grip Equipment inventory worth $500,000 for major television network
Supervised Grip department on 12 feature film productions
Operated specialized Grip Equipment including dollies and jibs for reality TV shows
Typical job title: "Grips"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Grips
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle rigging equipment for a complex crane shot in a tight location with safety concerns?
Expected Answer: A senior grip should discuss safety protocols, site survey procedures, weight distribution calculations, and alternative solutions if the original plan isn't feasible. They should mention team coordination and necessary permits/certifications.
Q: Describe your experience managing grip equipment inventory for large productions.
Expected Answer: Should discuss systems for tracking equipment, maintenance schedules, budgeting, rental relationships, and coordination with other departments. Should mention how they handle emergency repairs and replacements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety checks do you perform before setting up grip equipment?
Expected Answer: Should describe inspection routines for different types of equipment, weight capacity verification, proper securing methods, and communication with team members about safety protocols.
Q: How do you determine which grip equipment is needed for different types of shots?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they read shot lists, communicate with cinematographers, and choose appropriate equipment based on location and shooting requirements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you name the basic grip equipment used on a typical shoot?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list common items like C-stands, sandbags, flags, nets, and basic mounting hardware, explaining their basic uses.
Q: How do you properly wrap and store grip equipment after a shoot?
Expected Answer: Should describe proper cleaning, organizing, and storage procedures, including cable wrapping techniques and equipment protection methods.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic equipment identification and handling
- Safety protocols understanding
- Equipment maintenance and storage
- Assist in basic setups
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent equipment operation
- Problem-solving on set
- Equipment selection for different shots
- Team coordination
Senior (5+ years)
- Department management
- Complex rigging solutions
- Budget handling
- Safety supervision
Red Flags to Watch For
- Limited knowledge of safety protocols
- No hands-on experience with basic grip equipment
- Lack of physical capability to handle heavy equipment
- Poor communication skills with crew members
