FILMMAKING CREW & STAFF: BOOM OPERATOR

The Boom Operator is essentially the microphone guy or girl on a production set. Working with the filmmaking sound team, the Boom Operator will make sure all microphones are in place – whether that means wireless ones being attached to the actors or holding a pole to which a microphone is attached.

In addition to ensuring the best possible sound quality when filming dialogue and sound effects, the Boom Operator also handles the equipment – unloading, moving the equipment around as filming proceeds and keeping track of everything from cables to boom arms. In some cases, the Boom Operator also fixes minor problems with the sound equipment.

As you can imagine, it helps for a Boom Operator to know the script – the lines, the camera movement, the action, and its sound effects. It helps to know when and where to position and move microphones booms and cables. The Boom Operator usually pays a lot of attention during rehearsals to make sure all movement is taking the sound equipment into account – and to stay on top of his or her own actions of course, when actual shooting starts.

The Boom Operator, as with many other physically active members of a filmmaking crew, needs to be on top of what the safety measures and requirements are on any particular set.

Good skills to have if you are considering a career as a Boom Operator:

Sound equipment skills (knowing everything there is to know about different cables, microphones and other sound stuff is the only way to stay on your feet)

Lighting and camera skills (understanding how the other components of a set works, how the camera operator needs to position himself etc will help you find your own best maneuvers as part of the filmmaking team)

Memory skills (you will need to memorize screenplays, especially dialogue)

Physical skills (this work can take quite a lot out of your physical strength, knowing how to stay energized, agile and keep your balance is a huge plus)

Ways to become a Boom Operator:

There are courses and diplomas that will give you a good handle on all the equipment - check them out.

Work or intern anywhere you can get hands on experience with sound equipment – a sound stage or a sound equipment specialty store.

Take Production Assistant jobs that put you closer to the sound team.