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A Grip is a term that dates back to the early days of the circus. It carried on from there to vaudeville and on to today's music and film soundstages and sets. Some have suggested the name comes from the 30's-40's slang term for a tool bag or "grip" that these technicians use to carry their equipment to work.

In the U.S., grips are trained lighting and rigging technicians. They make up their own department on a film set and are led by a key grip. The main responsibilities of a grip are to work closely with the electrical department to put in the lighting set-ups necessary for a shot. They also work closely with the camera department, especially if the camera is mounted to a dolly, crane or other unsual position. Some grips may specialize in operating camera dollies or cranes. U.S. grips may belong to the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees, which is their union.

In the U.K. and Australia, grips mostly work on setting up and taking care of the camera mounting equipment.

There are several kinds of grips:

• key grip - the foreman of the grip department
• best boy grip - assist the key grip in logistical issues (scheduling crew and equipment rental)
• company grip - a soldier, meat popsicle, swinging dick, neck-down, mook
• construction grip - constructs and dismantles the set
• dolly grip - operates the dollies or swings the crane
• gang grip - same as company grip
• grip boss - same as key grip
• second company grip - same as best boy grip

"He's got a good Grip!" (set of hands)

• v
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• Film crew