How to Start Your Career as a Grip in the Film and TV Industry: Practical Steps and Tips

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 7 min read

Starting a career in the film and TV industry can be exciting, especially if you're interested in working behind the scenes. One such role that you might consider is becoming a grip. In this blog, we'll walk you through the practical steps and tips on how to become a grip, from understanding the role and responsibilities to finding grip jobs and growing your career in the industry.

Understanding the Grip Role

Before diving into the practical steps, it's essential to understand what a grip does and the difference between a grip and a key grip. This knowledge will help you decide if this career path is right for you and give you a better appreciation for the role.

Grip vs. Key Grip

A grip is a technician responsible for setting up and maintaining camera and lighting equipment on a film or TV set. They work closely with the camera and lighting departments to ensure that the director's vision is executed smoothly.

On the other hand, a key grip is the head of the grip department. They oversee and coordinate the work of all grips on the set, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and efficiently. The key grip also works closely with the director of photography to plan and execute the technical aspects of each shot.

Responsibilities of a Grip

As a grip, you'll have various responsibilities on set. Some of the main tasks you'll be involved in include:

Setting up and adjusting camera and lighting equipment, such as dollies, cranes, and tracks.
Maintaining and troubleshooting equipment to ensure it's in good working order.
Assisting camera operators in capturing the best shots possible, by adjusting equipment or offering suggestions.
Ensuring safety on set by securing equipment and creating a stable environment for the cast and crew.

Now that you have a clear understanding of the grip role, let's discuss the skills and qualities required to succeed in this career, and how you can gain experience and start building your grip kit.

Required Skills and Qualities

To become a grip, there are certain skills and qualities that will help you excel in the role. These skills are not only useful on the job but will also make you more attractive to potential employers and increase your chances of finding work in the industry.

Physical Fitness

As a grip, you will often be lifting and moving heavy equipment around the set. It's crucial to be physically fit and able to handle the demands of the job. This will not only make your work easier, but it's also important for your safety and the safety of your fellow crew members.

Problem-solving Skills

Unexpected issues can arise on a film set, and it's the grip's responsibility to find solutions quickly. Being able to think on your feet and come up with creative ways to solve problems is a valuable skill for a grip. Whether it's fixing a piece of broken equipment or figuring out how to get the perfect shot, your problem-solving skills will be put to the test regularly.

Communication and Teamwork

Working on a film set requires excellent communication and teamwork skills. As a grip, you'll be collaborating with various departments, such as the camera, lighting, and art departments. It's essential to be able to clearly and effectively communicate your ideas and listen to others to make sure everything runs smoothly and efficiently on set.

Now that you know the skills and qualities required to become a grip, let's discuss how you can gain experience, network, and join film organizations to help you get started in the industry.

Gaining Experience

Breaking into the film and TV industry can be challenging, but gaining experience is key to starting your career as a grip. Here are some ways you can get the hands-on experience needed to become a grip:

Volunteering and Internships

One of the best ways to learn the ropes and gain experience is by volunteering on film sets or applying for internships. This will allow you to observe how a professional grip works and give you the opportunity to practice your skills in a real-world setting. Plus, it's a great way to make connections with others in the industry who can help you find future job opportunities.

Networking

Networking is vital for anyone looking to break into the film industry. Attend industry events, film festivals, and workshops to meet fellow professionals and start building relationships. Don't be afraid to ask questions and share your passion for becoming a grip. You never know who might be able to introduce you to the right person or recommend you for a job.

Joining Film Organizations

Joining local and national film organizations can also help you gain experience and make valuable connections. These organizations often host events, workshops, and training sessions where you can learn from experienced professionals and network with others who share your passion for the film industry.

With some experience under your belt, it's time to start building your grip kit, which will be an essential part of your career.

Building Your Grip Kit

As you gain experience and start working on different projects, you'll need to have your own grip kit. This is a collection of tools and equipment that you'll use on set to perform your duties as a grip. Let's take a look at the essential tools and some recommended brands to consider when building your grip kit:

Essential Tools

Every grip kit should include the following tools:

Adjustable wrenches: These will be useful for tightening and loosening bolts on various equipment.
Pliers: Needle-nose and slip-joint pliers are a must for any grip kit.
Wire cutters: You may need to cut or trim wires on set, so be sure to have a pair of wire cutters handy.
Measuring tape: Accurate measurements are crucial on a film set, so a good measuring tape is a must-have.
Gloves: Protect your hands from the various equipment and materials you'll be handling.
Leatherman or multi-tool: A versatile tool that includes a knife, screwdriver, and other functions will come in handy in many situations.
Flashlight or headlamp: Lighting conditions on set can vary, so having a reliable light source is essential.
Gaffer's tape: This versatile tape is used for everything from securing cables to marking positions on set.

Recommended Brands

While there are many brands that offer quality tools for grips, some are more popular and trusted within the industry. Consider these well-known brands when building your grip kit:

Channellock: Known for their pliers and adjustable wrenches.
Klein Tools: Offers a wide range of tools, including wire cutters and multi-tools.
Stanley: A reliable brand for measuring tapes and other hand tools.
Mechanix Wear: Popular for their durable and comfortable gloves.
Leatherman: A trusted brand for versatile multi-tools.
Maglite: A go-to brand for flashlights and headlamps.
Pro Gaff: A favorite among grips for their high-quality gaffer's tape.

Now that you have your grip kit ready, it's time to learn how to find grip jobs and continue your journey to become a grip in the film and TV industry.

Finding Grip Jobs

With your grip kit ready and some experience under your belt, it's time to start looking for grip jobs. Here are some methods to help you find work in the film and TV industry:

Job Websites

Several websites are dedicated to listing job opportunities in the film and TV industry. These sites can be an excellent starting point for finding grip jobs. Examples of popular job sites include:

Mandy.com: Offers a wide range of film and TV job listings, including grip positions.
ProductionHUB: A go-to resource for professionals seeking work in the film, video, and live event industries.
Staff Me Up: Another popular site for finding film and TV production jobs across various departments.

Local Film Commissions

Local film commissions often have job listings and resources for film professionals. Reach out to your nearest film commission to find out about upcoming productions and potential grip job openings.

Word of Mouth

Don't underestimate the power of networking and word of mouth in the film and TV industry. Many grip jobs are filled through personal recommendations and connections. Make sure to attend industry events, workshops, and film festivals to network with other professionals and potentially land your next grip job.

With these resources, you'll be well on your way to finding grip jobs and continuing to grow your career. But remember, learning never stops—let's explore some ways to continue your education and expand your skill set in the film and TV industry.

Continuing Education and Career Growth

As you progress in your career as a grip, it's important to stay updated on industry trends, techniques, and technology. Here are some ways to continue your education and advance your career in the film and TV industry:

Workshops and Seminars

Attend workshops and seminars focused on grip work or related fields. These events are a great opportunity to learn new skills, network with other professionals, and discover the latest tools and equipment. Keep an eye out for workshops conducted by established grips or industry organizations to get the most value.

Industry Certifications

Earning industry certifications helps demonstrate your expertise and commitment to your craft. Some certifications to consider pursuing include:

Rigging: Acquiring rigging certification will make you a valuable asset on set and open up new job opportunities.
Equipment-specific certifications: Some manufacturers offer certification courses on their products, which can help you stand out as a grip with specialized knowledge.

Diversifying Your Skills

The more versatile your skill set, the more opportunities you'll have to find work in the film and TV industry. Consider learning related skills, such as:

Lighting: Understanding the basics of lighting can make you a more valuable grip, as you'll be able to work closely with the lighting department.
Camera work: Familiarizing yourself with camera operation and techniques can help you collaborate more effectively with the camera department.
Set construction: Gaining experience in set construction can broaden your job prospects and provide a better understanding of the overall production process.

By following these steps and tips on how to become a grip, you'll be well-equipped to start your career in the film and TV industry. Remember, practice makes perfect, and the more experience you gain, the more skilled and valuable you'll become. Best of luck on your gripping journey!

If you're just beginning your journey as a creative and looking for some guidance on how to get started and take off, don't miss Adrian Valencia's workshop, 'Getting Started and Taking Off as a Creative.' This workshop provides invaluable advice and tips for those who want to launch their creative careers successfully and make their mark in the industry.