Boom Operator

Julian Özkur
 Despite the title, a Boom operator does more than simply operate a boom. A Boom Operator

manages placement and handling of all the microphones on set and has to improvise with a variety of

unexpected situations. A Boom Operator must also be familiar with the technical aspects of most of the

sound equipment. Boom Operators require a considerable amount of education to be successful in their

industry and must continue their education throughout their career.

A boom is a long stick with a microphone on the end that allows a microphone to be placed

close to the person speaking without the microphone being in shot. The Boom Operator holds the

opposite end of the stick while maneuvering it into the ideal position for sound recording. Because the

speaker’s movements may be unpredictable, the boom operator must be adaptable and quick-thinking.

The Operator must also have considerable upper body strength due to the strain of holding a heavy

boom above his or her head for long periods of time.

There is an enormous variety of sound equipment that is used on a film set, both during

production and in post-production. A boom operator must have an extensive knowledge of all of this

equipment and be able to deal with minor repairs in a real-time situation. The Boom Operator also

works together with a Head Sound Engineer in post-production to edit the recordings for the best result.

Although there is no formal education that deals specifically with boom operation, there are

many courses that one should have taken when becoming a boom operator. A degree in sound

production and design is a plus and is usually the basis for any audio related job. Also, because sound

technology is advancing so quickly, a Boom Operator must have continuing education in order to keep

up with a high-technology profession.

A Boom Operator usually works on a freelance basis but occasionally they may be hired by a

company to work on a series of projects or as a regular operator on a television series. These projects
may include news reporting, film sets or recording studios. Because of this variety, an Operator must

have good interpersonal skills and be able to articulate aspects of his or her job to the rest of the crew.

Because of the diverse range of skills a Boom Operator must have, there is generally good compensation

for their services.

According to simplyhired.com, an average Boom Operator earns approximately $38, 000 per

annum. This average is expected to increase by 11 percent between 2010 and 2016 says the United

States Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, it is possible to earn upwards of $60, 000 a year as a boom

operator. On top of dollar earnings, a Boom Operator has opportunities to meet interesting people and

be a part of some very rewarding projects.

As a Boom Operator, one has an interesting and diverse job. Moderate education is required to

be successful as an Operator and the job can be very rewarding both financially and socially.