ABSTRACT
This chapter covers the tools and equipment of grip work, standard methods, and general set operating methods. Grip effects units modify the character or quantity of light—blocking, redirecting, feathering, and wrapping the light—in a word, control. The basic rule of thumb is that when the control is attached to a light, it is an electric department deal; if it is separate from the light it becomes a grip thing and, for the most part, different equipment is used to deal with it. A big part of a grip’s job is making things stay where they should. C-stands, camera mounts, large rigs, sometimes lights if they are mounted on something other than a light stand or the grid. Sandbags are absolutely essential for film production. Most often used to weigh down light stands, C-stands, and highboys to make them more safe, they have multiple other uses from holding doors open to helping an actor sit higher in a chair.
