If you’ve ever read the end credits of a movie, you’ve probably come across terms like “best boys,” “swing gang leaders,” and “gaffers.” These are real jobs done professionals, believe it or not. Many of these perplexing job titles have fallen out of favor, but they can be traced all the way back to the beginnings of filmmaking. Gaffers are professional electricians who are primarily responsible for lighting and electrifying a film set. These days, the term is frequently interchanged with chief lighting technicians, but the practice dates back to the earliest film studios.
The use of ceiling-mounted mirrors to reflect natural light was common when lighting a primitive studio set. Long poles called gaffs were used electricians or other crew members to move these mirrors throughout the day. Although the actual need for reflected sunlight has vanished, the name lives on as an honorary title for skilled electricians. Gaffers frequently collaborate with the director of photography to create special lighting effects or power stage equipment.
In addition, gaffers are in charge of hiring qualified electricians and assistants. They must also know how to simulate conditions such as a moving train or flashing signs in the distance, as well as which filters to use for specific effects. Electricians must also be aware of safety precautions.
Gaffers tape is a type of adhesive that some do-it-yourselfers may be familiar with. This product resembles cloth-backed duct tape in appearance, but it is not as adhesive. This tape is actually used gaffers to connect cable wires and attach lighting fixtures to other surfaces. The less-adhesive quality of the tape allows electricians to remove set-ups without leaving any residue, which is ideal for movie and television sets.
Gaffers frequently advance through the ranks from basic electrician to best boy, the title given to a gaffer’s chief assistant in the film industry. Some people may be hired as electricians a movie studio, but they may not have had any formal training in the field. Basic set electricians may only be required to move electrical cables out of the way of the camera operator or flip switches based on the lighting director’s instructions. Gaffers, on the other hand, are typically electrically trained and have a keen interest in the artistic side of filmmaking.