Spider Lifts In The Film Industry: All You Need To Know
It’s a lesser-known fact, but spider lifts are an invaluable part of the film industry worldwide. Yes, the same spider lifts that are used for arboriculture, construction, and more are a staple at sets. Directors, cinematographers, and production crews rely on them for a wide number of tasks – from capturing the perfect angle to installing lights, and more.
Do you know why they are preferred for these tasks? Because scaffolding and large lifts are just not viable on-set. Here, space is limited and time is money, so the tools used have to be both compact and affordable.
Enter spider lifts! The epitome of compact performance, they have become the favorite access solution of filmmakers around the world. Let’s dive deeper!
Why Are Spider Lifts Preferred Over Traditional Lifts In Film-making?
When you picture a film set, you might be able to visualize a space with tons of accessories and heavy equipment. The crowded nature of a film set – whether it’s an outdoors location or inside a soundstage – presents a unique set of challenges, which traditional lifts are not built to handle. However, aerial access is still a must on-set, and the only sensible option for that is spider lifts.
Compact and versatile, they have become the hero of elevated access around the world. While they might not enjoy the spotlight on sets, spider lifts still offer limelight-worthy features such as folding to fit through doorways, unfolding to reach impressive heights, and working in the narrowest of spots.
For a production team, these features equate to uncompromising performance. Since spider lifts can adapt to the environment on-set, crews do not have to spend time rethinking a shot. This adaptability bridges the gap between creative vision and logistical reality.
Why Are On-Set Spider Lifts Black?
One thing that’s common between spider lifts on film sets across the globe? They are all matte black. It is a conscious choice. The reason why they are painted matte black is to prevent unwanted reflections and reduce visibility on camera. They are supposed to blend into the background under stage lights.
Standard bright red, yellow, or green spider lifts that are commonly used on construction sites can cause severe glare from on-set light sources – be it natural sunlight, artificial lighting, or camera flashes. The matte black coat is excellent in absorbing this light, which makes these lifts virtually invisible on-set.
Unique Purposes Spider Lifts Serve On-Set
Spider aerial lifts offer specific advantages that serve the requirements of film crews better than scaffolding or ladders ever could. Let’s explore:
- Precision lighting: Lighting designers on movie sets can use the articulating boom of a spider lift to throw light in all directions and in interesting yet complex angles, which static rigs cannot.
- Camera positioning: Whether it is capturing an unusual perspective or a breathtaking overhead shot, these platforms keep heavy camera equipment safe, stable, and ready for all shooting angles.
- Set construction: Building elaborate sets is a painstaking task that requires elevated access in tight spots. Spider aerial lifts do that without damaging delicate flooring.
- Special effects support: Whether it is suspending safety nets or rigging props, spider lifts are instrumental in handling a lot of behind-the-scenes action and infrastructure.
As height access solutions, these platforms may have primarily catered to construction and utility work, but their inherent design has rendered them capable of fulfilling the flexibility and safety demands of the film industry.
Conclusion
An industry built on attention to detail and the principles of perfection, the film industry demands equipment that can handle its complex requirements with ease. Spider lifts with their innate flexibility, easy height access, and non-intrusive nature check all the right boxes.
Platform Basket Canada provides purpose-built platforms for the Canadian entertainment industry. Whether you are a rental company or a production management firm, our matte black lifts will serve as the perfect addition to your fleet. Contact us for a demo.
FAQs
Can spider lifts be used on uneven outdoor movie sets?
Yes. Platform Basket Canada’s spider lifts feature self-levelling outriggers, which keep the machine stable on all kinds of terrains and shoot locations – from forests to urban sites.
Do spider lifts require special permission to operate on movie sets?
Permits might be required and are dependent on the location of the set or the scene. For example, indoor shoots on closed sets do not require permits, but shoots in public spaces may need prior municipal approval.
Can the noise from a spider lift interfere with sound recording during live filming?
No. Movie sets exclusively use electric spider lifts, which offer relatively quiet operation. They are perfect for sets where audio quality is paramount.
