What is the function of a gaffer?

• A. To operate the camera
• B. To design production schedule
• C. To manage lighting on set
• D. To record sound

Answer: (C)

The gaffer is the head of the lighting department, responsible for turning the director of photography’s lighting plan into real illumination on set. They rig and position lights, adjust brightness and color temperature, apply diffusion or gels, and manage power distribution and safety, all while supervising the electricians and lighting crew. This role is dedicated to lighting, not to operating the camera, designing the schedule, or recording sound—the camera is operated by the camera operator, the schedule is set by the production manager or line producer, and sound is recorded by the sound crew. So, the gaffer’s function is to manage lighting on set.