What purpose does a dolly serve in production?

A dolly is an essential piece of equipment in film and television production, specifically designed to facilitate the smooth movement of the camera during shots. This tool is mounted on wheels and allows the camera operator to push or pull the camera along a track or on flat surfaces. By providing this mobility, a dolly enables dynamic camera movements such as tracking shots, which enhance storytelling and visual engagement by allowing viewers to follow action or reveal details in a scene fluidly. Through this functionality, the dolly plays a crucial role in achieving professional-quality cinematography, as it helps avoid the shaky or jarring effects that can arise from handheld camera use without stabilization.