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Key Grip

Heads the Grips department on UK units: camera support, dollies, cranes, platforms and safe camera rigging — works hand-in-glove with the DoP and Gaffer.

Duties

• Read the call sheet and sides before arriving
• Maintain radio/set etiquette and H&S
• Hand over notes/kit status at wrap
• Plan dollies/cranes/rigs
• Lead grips
• Safety of camera support
• Liaise with DoP and gaffer

Reports to

DoP; production on deal

Works with

Dolly Grip, Best Boy Grip, Gaffer, Camera Operator, 1st AD, Construction

Career path

Trainee Grip → Grip → Best Boy Grip → Key Grip

Day to day

Recce moves; choose track/crane/remote; crew the day; supervise builds; watch safety; sync with lighting for flags/nets; wrap hired grip package.

Call times

Track/crane builds often mean an early grip call. Once rolling, grips match unit; wrap after safe strike of track, platforms and remote heads.

What to wear

Blacks; steel toe-caps; gloves; hard hat on builds; harness at height; weather layers.

Tools & kit

Grip truck knowledge, levels, speed rail, clamps (department kit).

Tips

Confirm title, agreement, budget band, prep/wrap and kit fee on the deal memo before accepting. We never invent Bectu figures — check bectu.org.uk ratecards / your branch.

Software

• Tech charts / manufacturer crane apps
• PDF floorplans
• Call sheets / unit schedules
• Manufacturer docs (Libra, Technocrane, Fisher)
• Excel kit lists
• ChatGPT for packing weight lists (Key Grip verifies)

Related roles

Dolly Grip, Director of Photography

More Grips roles