How to be a Key Grip

Joey Daoud

Joey Daoud is an award-winning documentary filmmaker. His past films have appeared on Netflix, The New York Times, and National Geographic. He is also a YouTube creator across multiple channels with videos garnering millions of views. In his free time, he likes to climb mountains, scuba dive, and brew unique coffees.

Pancakes are for sitting

  1. Before production, oversee checkout and make sure everything is loaded on the truck properly. You’re responsible for its safekeeping.
  2. Pickup truck from the Film School during production. The Key Grip is the driver. Make sure you get to set before call time, because nothing can happen until the truck arrives.
  3. Unload all equipment from the aisle and get the dolly ready.
  4. Attend the New Deal. Find out what is needed for the setup.
  5. If it doesn’t involve electricity or the camera then you’re in charge of it. C-Stands, flags, sandbags, apple boxes, dolly, dolly track, etc.
  6. Hang by the truck to get equipment as needed. Or craft services.
  7. Wrap equipment when it’s finished.
  8. Pack up the truck.
  9. Drive back to the Film School.

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