Best Boy Electric

Definition

The best boy electric is the chief assistant to the gaffer on a film set, responsible for managing the electrical department and supporting lighting needs during production. This role involves coordinating the crew, managing equipment, and ensuring safety protocols are followed, all of which are crucial for maintaining a well-organized lighting setup that contributes to the overall cinematographic vision.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The best boy electric typically has a strong background in both electrical knowledge and practical skills in lighting equipment.
2. This role requires excellent communication skills, as the best boy must liaise between the gaffer and the rest of the electrical crew to ensure everyone is on the same page.
3. Best boys electric are often responsible for inventory management, tracking equipment, and ensuring everything is in working order before shooting begins.
4. Safety is a top priority for a best boy electric, who must enforce safety standards regarding electrical hazards and equipment handling on set.
5. Many best boys electric aspire to become gaffers themselves, making this position an important stepping stone in a cinematographer's career path.

Review Questions

• What responsibilities does a best boy electric have in relation to the gaffer and the lighting crew?
  • A best boy electric serves as the right-hand person to the gaffer, taking on significant responsibilities that include managing the electrical crew, coordinating lighting setups, and ensuring that all equipment is functioning properly. They must communicate effectively with the gaffer to implement the lighting design and maintain organization within their team. Additionally, they handle logistical tasks like equipment inventory and scheduling, which are essential for a smooth production process.
• How does the role of best boy electric contribute to the overall success of a film's cinematography?
  • The best boy electric plays a pivotal role in achieving a film's cinematographic vision by ensuring that lighting setups are executed flawlessly. Their expertise in managing both people and equipment allows them to create an efficient workflow that facilitates quick adjustments as needed during shooting. By enforcing safety measures and maintaining equipment readiness, they help prevent delays that could impact production timelines and ultimately contribute to the visual storytelling of the film.
• Evaluate how the position of best boy electric acts as a gateway for advancement within cinematography careers.
  • The position of best boy electric serves as a critical stepping stone for many individuals aspiring to elevate their careers within cinematography. It provides valuable hands-on experience in both technical and managerial aspects of lighting on set. As they develop their skills and build networks within the industry, many move on to become gaffers or even directors of photography. This role not only enhances their understanding of lighting but also sharpens leadership skills that are essential for higher-level positions in film production.

Related terms

Gaffer: The gaffer is the head of the electrical department, responsible for designing and executing the lighting plan for a film or television production.

Grip: A grip is a technician who works on the physical aspects of lighting and rigging, manipulating equipment like flags and diffusers to control light quality and direction.

Electric Department: The electric department is the team responsible for all electrical aspects of lighting on set, including setup, maintenance, and operation of lights and power supplies.