Duties of a Dolly Grip: A dolly grip is primarily responsible for operating portable camera platforms such as dollies and crane arms during film production, coordinating movement with the camera operator and ensuring smooth camera movements.
In the fast-paced world of film production, the role of the dolly grip is crucial. This unsung hero works alongside the cameraman and assistant, forming a tight-knit team that instantly adapts to each new camera setup.
The best dolly grips are known for their "good touch," a skill that allows them to react rapidly to unexpected changes and navigate through difficult situations with ease. This ability is vital, as the timing of a dolly grip is crucial. A misplaced dolly can ruin a scene, even if other aspects are perfect.
The dolly grip's primary responsibility is operating a 500-pound (227-kilogram) wheeled contraption called a dolly, mounted with a camera, which slides on a track for moving shots. This job is physically and mentally demanding, requiring constant securing of cameras, building and disassembling tracks, and moving equipment.
In addition to their main duty, dolly grips also serve as the safety spotter for the camera operator, even when a scene doesn't require a dolly. An experienced dolly grip may own about 100 feet (30 meters) of track, tools, ropes, harnesses, and skateboard wheels, ensuring they are always prepared for any situation.
Dolly grips typically learn the ropes as unspecialized grips or production assistants before working their way into the dolly position. There is no specific information available about film productions with the best dolly grips in recent years, but their contributions are undeniably essential to the success of a film.
According to industry insider Brian Dzyak, a dolly grip can make approximately $35,000 for a 12-week shoot, which is about the same pay grade as a best boy (the second-in-command to the key grip). This salary reflects the importance of the dolly grip's role and the high level of skill and experience required to excel in this position.
For those interested in learning more about the dolly grip's world, related articles include "10 Highest-Paying Jobs in the Film Industry," "How Cinematographers Work," "How Becoming a Movie Director Works," "How Steadicams Work," "What does a best boy do?", and "Hollywood Hard Hats." These articles provide valuable insights into the various aspects of the film industry and the roles that make a movie come to life.
