ABSTRACT
This is a balancing act that the lighting crew faces every single day of production. Often the DP will be the lead person to negotiate the equipment list, but eventually the gaffer or whoever is supplying the lighting will need to weigh in. Often it is easier to start with a hard budget number, which can quickly suggest the scope of work. During the first conversation with the production person I will ask many questions to try to determine the scope, size of crew, and general ambitions. Crew rates always play a role in what is possible. Scouts are a great idea, but on many corporate shoots only the DP and director will scout. As the gaffer I will prepare an estimate of the equipment needed, itemized and priced per item. The second phone conversation should lock in the expectations, goals, and general scope of the work as well as crew size. Occasionally you may need to scale up way beyond the production company’s initial plans. Despite all the equipment trends and buzzwords, it is still possible to light simply and cheaply when necessary. I believe the production company will remember your attitude and ability to pitch in more than any particular lighting you did during the day of production.
