In television production, a gaffer is the chief lighting technician or head electrician on the set. This crucial role involves overseeing all lighting aspects for a production, ensuring that the visual aesthetic aligns with the director's vision.
The Gaffer's Core Responsibilities
The gaffer's primary responsibility is the execution of the lighting plan. While they are sometimes involved in the design of this plan, their main focus is bringing it to life on set. This includes:
- Setting Up Lights: Arranging and positioning various types of lighting fixtures to achieve the desired illumination for each scene.
- Power Distribution: Managing the electrical power supply for all lighting equipment, ensuring safe and efficient distribution.
- Cable Management: Routing and securing cables to prevent hazards and maintain a tidy set.
- Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving any technical issues with lighting equipment.
- Safety: Ensuring all lighting setups and electrical work adhere to strict safety standards.
Their work is essential for creating the appropriate mood, highlighting subjects, and ensuring that the footage is well-exposed and visually appealing. They work closely with the director of photography (cinematographer) to translate the artistic vision into practical lighting setups.
The Gaffer's Team
To manage the complex electrical and lighting demands of a TV production, the gaffer leads a team of electricians. The most prominent member of this team is their direct assistant:
| Role | Primary Duty |
|---|---|
| Gaffer | Head electrician; responsible for the overall execution of the lighting plan. |
| Best Boy Electric | The gaffer's assistant; helps manage the electrical department and lighting setup. |
The best boy electric acts as the gaffer's right-hand person, managing equipment, supervising other electricians, and ensuring that the gaffer's instructions are carried out effectively.
