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Boom Operator

Positions microphones for best dialogue pickup without entering frame — key partner to the mixer on UK drama.

Duties

• Read the call sheet and sides before arriving
• Maintain radio/set etiquette and H&S
• Hand over notes/kit status at wrap
• Boom mics
• Assist lav placement
• Watch frames and shadows

Reports to

Production Sound Mixer

Works with

Mixer, Sound Assistant, Camera Operator, 1st AD, Costume

Career path

Sound Assistant → Boom Op → Mixer

Day to day

Rehearse with Camera/Operator; fly boom; flag shadows/reflections; second boom when needed; protect continuity of mic perspective.

Call times

Sound generally matches unit call; lav wiring can pull cast (and sound) earlier. Wild tracks and quiet windows often extend past picture wrap.

What to wear

Quiet blacks; soft-soled shoes; radio pouch; weather layers; avoid noisy nylon fabrics.

Tools & kit

Personal boom/headphones soft goods as agreed; mixer kit often package deal — confirm kit fee vs labour.

Tips

Confirm title, agreement, budget band, prep/wrap and kit fee on the deal memo before accepting. We never invent Bectu figures — check bectu.org.uk ratecards / your branch.

Software

• Script apps for cueing
• PDF sides
• Sound Devices / Zaxcom / Lectrosonics ecosystems
• Wave Agent / metadata tools
• MovieSlate where used
• Frame.io notes as issued
• ChatGPT for lav/character planning lists (mixer approves)

Bectu rate cards for this role are in the app.

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Production Sound Mixer

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