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Occupation Information

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Film and Television Lighting Operator
( Operator (Film and Television Lighting), Lighting Designer, Gaffer )

Duties and Tasks
Quick Facts
Work Conditions
Personal Requirements
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	Adjusting the position of television lighting for news broadcasting

Lighting operators position, set up and operate lighting equipment to light sets or studios during stage performances, television broadcasts or film productions.

Lighting operators are responsible, both creatively and technically, for lighting interior and outside scenes and must achieve the desired effects through the placement, intensity and colour of lighting.

Duties and Tasks

Lighting operators may perform the following tasks:

study scripts and discuss lighting effects with production staff
coordinate activities with electrical crew when putting up metal scaffolding to support lighting equipment
select and position equipment such as spotlights and floodlights
arrange and connect cables to electrical supply using portable junction boxes
operate lights during filming or broadcasting and vary intensity of light using various filters and reflective screens
maintain and repair lighting equipment
arrange for transportation of equipment to remote locations.

Quick Facts

Learning Area	Art Computing Studies Performing Arts Physics
Work Demand	Including good vision for detail Including reading or writing
Work Field	Art, Design, Music and Entertainment
Work Interest	Creative or Artistic Practical or Mechanical
Skill Level	Professional Jobs

Work Conditions

In film production, lighting operators are called gaffers and their assistants are known as best boys.

Lighting operators may be required to travel to remote locations. They usually work irregular hours or shifts.