What Does a Gaffer Do?

Here at Aura Casting we support all aspects of filmmaking in our series “What does a…” we’ll be breaking down the basics of different elements of film production. 

So today, we’re breaking down the basics of what a Gaffer does.

A gaffer is the head of the lighting department on film sets.

A gaffer’s main job is the design and carry out lighting setup according to the director’s vision. Gaffers work the closet with directors and the director of photography to create the mood, look, and atmosphere of the project. 

Listed below are a few of the responsibilities of gaffers. 

• Lighting Design.

• Planning and carrying out the lighting scheme for each scene and planning around the time of day, mood, and camera angles. 

• Equipment Management.

• Gaffers oversee the setting up, operating and maintenance of lighting equipment. 

• Teamwork.

• Working closely with the director, director of photography is a large role of the gaffer but they also work closely with production assistants, sound operators and camera operators to ensure smooth set days. 

• Problem-Solving.

• A large part of a gaffers job on the set is to  address any lighting issues that arise during filming.

• Safety.

• Some say that a gaffer’s most important job is to ensure and maintain safety with working with the lighting equipment. 

Overall, a gaffer plays a crucial role in shaping visual elements of a production while also ensuring safety on set. 

Ready to take your production to the next level? While we aren’t on set for your shoot, we can ensure that the cast is right. Reach out to us today to learn more.

Written by Lauren Ulveling