Grip Equipment
Grip Equipment refers to the specialized tools and equipment used to position, mount, and control cameras and lighting equipment on film and television sets. Think of grips as the professionals who make sure cameras and lights can be placed exactly where the cinematographer needs them, safely and securely. This includes everything from simple stands and clamps to complex rigging systems that allow cameras to move smoothly through the air or be mounted on vehicles. It's like a sophisticated system of support tools that helps create those amazing camera angles and movements you see in movies and TV shows.
Examples in Resumes
Managed and maintained Grip Equipment inventory worth $500,000 for major studio productions
Supervised Grip Gear setup and operation for 20+ commercial shoots
Led a team of 5 grip technicians handling Grip Equipment and Grip Hardware for feature film production
Typical job title: "Grip Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Grip Technicians
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you plan grip equipment needs for a complex action sequence?
Expected Answer: A senior grip should discuss budget considerations, safety requirements, equipment inventory assessment, team coordination, and backup plans. They should mention how they would work with the cinematographer and director to understand the creative vision.
Q: What's your experience managing grip teams on large productions?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience, ability to coordinate with other departments, scheduling knowledge, and problem-solving skills in high-pressure situations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure safety when rigging equipment overhead?
Expected Answer: Should explain proper safety protocols, weight calculations, securing methods, and importance of safety checks. Should mention communication with team members and documentation procedures.
Q: What factors do you consider when selecting equipment for outdoor shoots?
Expected Answer: Should discuss weather considerations, terrain assessment, power requirements, and backup equipment needs. Should demonstrate knowledge of various equipment options for different situations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you name basic grip equipment and their uses?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify common items like C-stands, sandbags, apple boxes, and basic clamps, explaining their basic functions on set.
Q: What's the proper way to wrap and store grip equipment?
Expected Answer: Should know basic maintenance procedures, proper storage methods, and how to organize equipment for transport.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic equipment identification and handling
- Safety awareness and protocols
- Equipment maintenance and storage
- Following instructions from senior grips
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex rigging setups
- Equipment problem-solving
- Team coordination
- Budget awareness
Senior (5+ years)
- Department management
- Advanced safety oversight
- Equipment logistics planning
- Mentoring junior team members
Red Flags to Watch For
- Limited knowledge of basic safety protocols
- No experience with industry-standard equipment
- Poor understanding of on-set communication
- Lack of physical capability to handle equipment
- No awareness of union regulations
