A gaffer, or chief lighting technician, can be thought of as the maestro of light, orchestrating the illumination of the director’s vision. This role is not just about ensuring visibility; it’s about setting the mood, creating the atmosphere, and enhancing the narrative through the strategic use of light. The gaffer works in close collaboration with the director of photography, ensuring that each frame captures the intended emotion and storytelling elements. It’s a role that combines technical mastery with artistic sensibility, making the gaffer an indispensable asset to any production team.

Today, we shine the spotlight on Victoria McGraw, a dedicated gaffer at Lemonlight, who brings her unique blend of skills and passion to every project. With a year under her belt, Victoria has already made a significant impact on our production team. Let’s dive into her experiences and insights:

How many years have you worked with Lemonlight?
I’ve been part of the Lemonlight family for one year now.

Whats’s the best part about working with Lemonlight:
The regular 9-5 workdays, which is quite a departure from the norm in this industry.

Why do you love the video production industry?
My love for video production stems from my time at Miami Dade College, a technical film school. We learned everything from theory to hands-on experience in pre-production and post. I’m happy to have the opportunity to bring all those years of training and work experience on location with me at Lemonlight.

What’s your favorite crew meal/snack?
Definitely almonds paired with apricots!

How has working at Lemonlight influenced or shaped your approach to video production overall?
Having worked on features, commercials, and music videos with intense 15-18 hour days, I find the 9-5 schedule at Lemonlight refreshing. This change is crucial for discussing and improving work-life quality in our industry.

What’s a behind-the-scenes story or anecdote from a project that you think best represents the video production process at Lemonlight?
Each location or crew call starts with us being on the same page, thanks to detailed call sheets, client information, and technical briefs provided beforehand. This level of organization ensures efficient, productive days and the best conditions to fulfill a client’s vision.