Career Profile - Sound Recordist

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Sound Recordist - TV
As original sound is vital to the creative media industries, Sound Recordists (also called Production Mixers) play an important role within the production process by ensuring that high quality sound is captured at all times.

Jobs in sound generally fall into two areas: production sound and post-production sound. Sound Recordists/Production Mixers work in production sound. Most Sound Recordists/Production Mixers are freelance, and although some may register with agents and diary services, most work is gained on the basis of their reputation. They are often expected to work long and irregular hours, sometimes on location, which may involve extended periods away from home.

What is the job?

Sound Recordists/Production Mixers record sound on location or in a studio, usually in synchronisation with the camera, to enable the highest quality 'real' sound to be recorded at the time of filming/recording. They monitor the quality of the sound recording through headphones, and work closely with the Director, Boom Operator and sometimes the Sound Editor, often using multiple microphones.

They are also responsible for setting up talkback communication between production staff, presenters and artistes and other communication systems such as 'live' links by land line, microwave link or satellite. They also record sound effects and atmosphere tracks.

Recordists/Production Mixers may work on a wide range of single or multi-camera shoots, and their duties can vary considerably. Depending on the scale of the production they may work closely with the Director and Producer at the planning stage to identify their creative role, and to clarify technical requirements and budgets.

As Sound Recordists are responsible for producing the final sound mix, they directly supervise the Sound Assistants and Boom Operators, and may also manage the rest of the sound crew. They may also occasionally operate the Boom themselves. They are often required to supervise frontline maintenance in order to keep the production on track.

Typical career routes

The most important starting point for a career in Sound is to develop and demonstrate an interest in sound by exploring, experimenting and learning about audio technology and its capabilities, perhaps using the increasingly sophisticated equipment which is available at accessible prices on the high street.

Sound personnel usually start in a trainee role and work their way upwards. On-the-job training or shadowing of more experienced personnel is the best way to learn. Experience of working in theatre or the music industry, hospital or community radio provides a useful background for this role. Working with equipment manufacturers or hire companies can also provide valuable experience and training, and is a good way of learning about sound equipment, making industry contacts, and getting a foot in the door.

Essential knowledge and skills

A major part of the job of a Sound Recordist/Production Mixer is the ability to work as part of a team. Many of the skills needed for this role involve enabling the team to work as efficiently and effectively as possible, and must include the willingness and ability to compromise. Despite the need to record high quality sound in often difficult circumstances, the Sound Recordist/Production Mixer must understand that perfection is not always possible, and that the needs of the team come first.

As much of the job involves solving problems created by particular locations or situations, the ability to think creatively is vital. As microphones pick up every sound, the ability to concentrate and pay close attention to detail is crucial.

Key skills include:

•good knowledge of audio equipment and sound technology;
•knowledge of the television production process, including camera and lighting techniques;
•knowledge of management and licensing of radio transmission systems;
•excellent hearing, concentration and attention to detail;
•excellent balance, agility and good sense of timing;
•good communication, interpersonal and team skills;
•patience, self-discipline and reliability;
•diplomacy and sensitivity when working with artistes and crew members;
•knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health & Safety legislation and procedures.
Training and qualifications

Although there are no formal entry requirements for TV Boom Operators, a demonstrable interest in sound and an understanding of its physical properties is essential. Courses are available throughout the UK, from HND to degree level in Sound Technology, Audio Engineering, Acoustics and Music Recording.

Short courses at various training providers are also available, including those run by the National Film & Television School (NFTS), National Short Course Training Programme.

Industry led new entrant training schemes, such as those run by Cyfle(Wales) and Scottish Screen provide a mixture of attachments and formal training, but competition for places is fierce. Broadcasters also run occasional trainee schemes, and Skillset's regional training partners offer a range of new entrant, freelance and attachment training programmes.

Continual professional development is important for anyone working in TV Sound, in order to keep their skills up-to-date in an industry where technology is continually changing.

Where to go for more information

Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the creative media industries. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is the UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.

– The Broadcasting and Entertainment Trade Union BECTU, offers advice about employment terms and rights and useful information on health and safety.

– The Institute of Broadcast Sound - A forum for broadcast audio professionals and an invaluable resource for interchange of ideas.

– The Association of Motion Picture Sound (AMPS) - a membership organisation for UK sound personnel.

– The Association of Professional Recording Services (APRS) (APRS) is the trade association for all aspects of the sound industry; including events, training, health and safety advice, and a helpline.

– BKSTS: The Moving Image Society - a membership organisation which runs events and training courses, and publishes Image Technology.

– The Audio Engineering Society - an US-based professional society devoted to audio technology which has a thriving UK section.


Source: http://www.skillset.org/tv/jobs/sound/article_2794_1.asp