How Do I Hire a Professional Boom Operator?

Widely under-recognized and often overlooked until absolutely needed, the boom operator is a vital position in some scenes yet it’s frequently forgotten about. This individual is tasked with appropriately positioning the microphone for sound with ZERO room for error.

They are vastly experienced in the placement of sound equipment in relation to camera angles and know how to produce quality sound capture without obstructing the view of the camera, no matter what the angle is. Not only do they handle all operation of the boom, but they are also tasked with handling various other microphones and cables or cords in connection to sound capture along the way.

Hiring a boom operator requires some careful planning and understanding of the appropriate skills that these individuals should possess. Beginning with qualifications and some questions that you can ask appropriate candidates, we’re showing you just how to hire a professional boom operator for your production.

Boom Operator Qualifications

A great boom operator is going to possess several qualifications above and beyond your typical communication and knowledge of the film set. They actively work in scenes to produce quality sound capture without interrupting the various other working elements of the film crew.

Boom operators are:

• Experienced
• On-Time
• Dedicated
• Prompt
• Strong
• Focused

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Boom Operator

Need to hire a boom operator to work closely with your Production Sound Mixer? Before you set just anyone free with the set’s audio equipment.

Consider asking the following questions:

• What’s the largest crew you’ve ever worked with & what’s the smallest? You’re looking to get an understanding of the Boom Operator’s skill set and ability to work with others. A boom operator that has worked with a large crew in the past may be able to handle more responsibility than someone that is accustomed to small sets.
• What types of microphones are you most fluent with & what do you prefer to work with? You’re looking for information on the boom operator’s working knowledge of sound equipment and to get an idea of how invested they are in the job.
• Do you have experience with professional talent? Have you done interviews? Who else have you worked with? You’re looking to find out whether the boom operator has worked in a professional capacity with professional actors, speakers, or others before to get more knowledge on how effective they will be on the set.

These are just some of the most basic questions that you can ask to get a better idea of the background and understanding that a Boom operator has for the position that you’re hiring for. Consider these and your own personal questions before you make a hiring decision.

For more information, or for help hiring a boom operator, give Beverly Boy Productions a call.