In the
U.S. and
Canada,
grips are lighting and rigging technicians in the
filmmaking and
video production industries. They constitute their own department on a film set and are directed by a
key grip. Grips have two main functions. The first is to work closely with the camera department to provide camera support, especially if the camera is mounted to a
dolly,
crane, or in an unusual position, such as the top of a ladder. Some grips may specialize in operating
camera dollies or
camera cranes. The second main function of grips is to work closely with the electrical department to create lighting set-ups necessary for a
shot under the direction of the
director of photography.