Boom operator (media)

All you want to know about Boom operator (media)

Boom operator

A boom operator is an assistant of the production sound mixer. The principal responsibility of the boom operator is microphone placement, sometimes using a "fishpole" with a microphone attached to the end and sometimes, when the situation permits, using a "boom" (often a "fisher boom") which is a special piece of equipment that the operator stands on and that allows precise control of the microphone at a much greater distance away from the actors. He or she will also place wireless microphones on actors when it is necessary.

The boom operator must decide where to place the boom microphone based on a combination of factors, including the location and projection of any dialogue, the frame position of the camera, and any unwanted noise sources.

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Film crew

Pre-production and production

Producer · Production manager · Production coordinator · Director · First assistant director · Second assistant director · Casting director · Production assistant · Script supervisor · Script coordinator · Location manager

Production design

Production designer

Art	Art director · Set designer · Illustrator

Hair and make-up	Make-up artist · Hairdresser

Wardrobe	Costume designer

Sets	Set decorator

Props	Props master

Photography

Cinematographer / Director of photography

Camera	Camera operator · First assistant camera · Second assistant camera · Steadicam operator

Lighting	Gaffer · Best boy (electrical) · Lighting technician

Grip	Key grip · Best boy (grip) · Dolly grip · Grip

Sound and music

Sound designer

Production sound	Production sound mixer · Boom operator · Utility sound technician

Sound editing	Dialogue editor · Sound editor · Foley artist

Music	Sound editor · Re-recording mixer · Music supervisor · Composer