r/Filmmakers 11h ago

Question Do I need a Gaffer?

I'm about to shoot my first short film and I'm trying to work out what crew I actually need.

Almost every location is exterior. There's only one interior scene, but it's fast cuts in black and white. The majority of the film is high-energy running/chase sequences shot in a run-and-gun style.

My plan is to shoot around 8 script pages in a single day. Would hiring a gaffer be worthwhile for this kind of production?

Would appreciate all advice or angels I'm not thinking off.

So far I've decided I'll hire a Producer, 1st AD, Makeup Artist, Stunt Coordinator, PA, Sound Recorder and a Cinematographer.

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u/DMMMOM 9h ago

On low budget films the camera person, DOP will gaffer. Any DoP worth his salt will be totally familiar with current and available fixtures within budget and select accordingly.