Cribbing

Technical Details

Professional cribbing is made from knot-free, dried hardwood (residual moisture <12%) and has a compressive strength of at least 45 N/mm². The standard dimensions of 20 x 10 x 5 cm allow for modular stacking in 5 cm increments. Heavy-duty versions for large HMI lights or camera cranes use blocks measuring 30 x 15 x 10 cm with a load capacity of up to 1,000 kg. The surfaces are sanded and partially equipped with non-slip rubber surfacing. Special wedge cribbing with a 2°-5° incline is used for precise angle adjustment.

History & Development

Cribbing established itself as a Hollywood standard in the 1930s when heavy arc lamps required stable support. Standardization to current dimensions occurred in 1952 by the ASC (American Society of Cinematographers). European DIN-standardized variants were added in the 1980s. Modern developments include lightweight versions made of birch plywood for location shoots and interlocking systems with integrated spirit levels.

Practical Use in Film

On "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), cinematographer Roger Deakins supported massive 18K HMI lights with up to 40 cribbing blocks to achieve the low camera position in the replicant scenes. Typical workflow: Gaffers and lighting technicians use cribbing for millimeter-precise height adjustment of lights to camera height or architecture. Advantages include quick adjustability and cost-effectiveness. Disadvantages: Time expenditure for exact alignment and risk of slipping on smooth floors.

Comparison & Alternatives

Cribbing differs from wedges by its right-angled shape and higher stability. Modern alternatives include hydraulic tripod legs with height adjustment (standard since the 2010s) and pneumatic lift systems for heavy lights. However, cribbing remains unbeatable for extreme precision and in inaccessible locations where technical aids fail. Plastic variants made of ABS are 60% lighter but only suitable for loads up to 200 kg.