The simple act of turning off a light on a film set is laden with unspoken rules and potential pitfalls. While seemingly straightforward, knowing precisely what to say—and, crucially, what not to say—can prevent accidents, maintain safety, and uphold professional etiquette. The phrase of choice is overwhelmingly, and almost universally, “Strike it.” This signals to everyone involved, from the gaffer and best boy to the actors and director, that a specific light is about to be powered down and may no longer be needed.
Understanding the Power of “Strike It”
The film set is a meticulously orchestrated environment where communication is paramount. A seemingly innocuous action like turning off a light requires a specific verbal cue to ensure everyone is on the same page. Why “Strike it,” specifically? Its origins are somewhat murky, likely rooted in theatrical tradition, but its meaning is crystal clear. It’s a concise, universally understood directive.
Why “Strike It” Works
- Conciseness: In the fast-paced, often chaotic atmosphere of a film set, brevity is crucial. “Strike it” is short, to the point, and easily understood.
- Clarity: There’s no room for ambiguity. “Strike it” unambiguously means to turn off a specific light.
- Universality: It’s the standard phrase used across film sets, regardless of location or production size. This eliminates confusion and promotes efficient communication.
- Safety Implication: It implicitly warns those nearby that the light source is about to change, potentially impacting their safety or the visual aesthetic.
Alternatives (and Why They Are Less Effective)
While you might hear other phrases used occasionally, “Strike it” remains the gold standard. Alternatives, such as “Turn it off,” “Kill the light,” or “Lights out,” are generally discouraged due to their potential for misinterpretation or lack of clarity. For example, “Turn it off” could be interpreted as referring to something other than the light in question, while “Lights out” is too general and doesn’t specify which light should be switched off. Precision is key on a film set.
The Nuances of “Strike It”
Simply saying “Strike it” isn’t always enough. Context and clarity are essential.
Identifying the Light
It’s crucial to specify which light you are referring to. If there’s only one light in the immediate vicinity, “Strike it” alone might suffice. However, in most cases, you’ll need to be more precise. Use the light’s commonly known name or a descriptive identifier.
Examples:
- “Strike the key light.”
- “Strike the Kino on the right.”
- “Strike the #2 Arri.”
Confirming Understanding
After issuing the “Strike it” command, it’s good practice to ensure that someone acknowledges your instruction, especially if you’re not the one physically turning off the light. This is often done with a simple “Copy” or “Roger.”
Example:
- You: “Strike the key light.”
- Grip: “Copy.”
Addressing Complex Lighting Setups
In situations involving complex lighting setups, clear and concise communication is even more critical. Use specific terminology and avoid ambiguity. If multiple lights need to be struck in a particular order, communicate that order clearly.
Example:
- “Strike the fill, then the kicker, then the back light.”
FAQ: Lighting the Way to Understanding
Frequently Asked Questions about using “Strike it” on a film set.
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What if I’m unsure which light to strike? If you’re uncertain, ask for clarification. “Which light are we striking?” is a perfectly acceptable question. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Never assume.
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Who is typically responsible for turning off lights? Usually, it’s a grip or electrician (the gaffer or best boy) who physically turns off the lights. However, the director or director of photography (DP) will often give the “Strike it” command.
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Should I use “Strike it” if I’m just dimming a light? No. “Strike it” specifically means turning the light off entirely. Dimming requires a different command, such as “Dim the key light” or “Bring down the fill.”
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What if I accidentally strike the wrong light? Immediately announce your mistake. “Sorry, wrong light! Re-lighting!” Honesty and quick correction are crucial.
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Is “Strike it” appropriate on a student film set? Absolutely. Even on student sets, adhering to professional terminology and practices is beneficial for building good habits and fostering a professional environment.
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Are there any regional variations in the phrase? While minor variations might exist, “Strike it” is the most widely accepted and understood phrase. It’s best to stick with the standard.
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What should I say if I need a light to be turned on? Use phrases like “Bring up the key light” or “Light it up.” Be specific about which light you need illuminated.
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Is it okay to say “Strike it” around actors? Yes, actors are accustomed to hearing film set terminology. However, always be mindful of the context and ensure that the command doesn’t disrupt their performance or concentration.
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What if the light doesn’t turn off after I say “Strike it”? Report the issue immediately. “The light’s not striking!” This indicates a potential electrical problem or a malfunctioning switch.
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Can I use “Strike it” in other contexts, like theater? Yes, “Strike it” is also commonly used in theater to indicate that a set piece or prop should be removed or taken down.
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How important is it to pronounce “Strike it” clearly? Pronunciation is paramount. Mumbling or slurring the phrase can lead to miscommunication and potential accidents. Enunciate clearly and confidently.
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What is the best way to learn film set etiquette beyond lighting commands? Shadowing experienced professionals, taking film production courses, and observing experienced crews on set are invaluable ways to learn the nuances of film set etiquette. Respect and clear communication are always essential.
Beyond the Words: The Culture of the Set
Ultimately, knowing what to say when turning off a light is only one aspect of being a responsible and respectful member of a film crew. Understanding the overall culture of the set, observing established protocols, and prioritizing safety are equally important. A collaborative and communicative environment ensures a smoother production and a better final product. Mastering the language of the set, starting with a simple phrase like “Strike it,” is a crucial step towards professional success. It demonstrates not only technical competence but also a commitment to teamwork and safety. Embrace the language, learn the nuances, and contribute to a well-lit and well-run film set.