Gaffer for Supernatural Short Film

A dark, atmospheric supernatural short film about a young woman confronting a family curse is looking for a Gaffer. This independent production explores themes of inherited trauma and psychological unease, relying heavily on evocative lighting to build tension and define character states. We're aiming for a moody, painterly aesthetic with strong shadows and selective practicals. We need a skilled Gaffer to lead our lighting team and execute the Director of Photography's vision. Key responsibilities include: collaborating on lighting setups, managing and organizing all lighting equipment, ensuring safety protocols are met, and helping to achieve the desired cinematic look within practical constraints. You'll be responsible for power distribution, fixture placement, and working closely with the Grip team. Applicants should have some experience in film or commercial lighting, ideally having previously gaffed at least one short film or similar project. Please provide a reel or examples of your previous work that demonstrate your understanding of cinematic lighting. While we have a basic lighting package, ownership of additional gear like specialized fixtures or diffusion is a plus, but not strictly required. Shoot dates are anticipated to be 2-3 days in late October 2026, primarily in and around Auckland. Each shoot day will be approximately 10-12 hours, including breaks. We will provide catering, transportation to and from locations, and any specialized equipment not covered by the Gaffer's kit. This is a paid position, offering $150-300 per day depending on experience and any provided gear.