FAQ
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What does a Production Sound Mixer do?
The Production Sound Mixer (PSM) is the head of the sound department on Feature Films and Television shows and is responsible for capturing the actors’ performances on set. With a primary focus on recording clean and natural dialogue, the PSM works closely with their sound crew to optimally position various microphones and reduce unwanted noise. Whilst managing wireless systems, timecode and comms, the PSM will mix multiple microphones in real time to deliver a clear and coherent mix that is ready for post-production.
The sound team that work closely with the PSM consists of one or often two 1st Assistant Sound (Boom Operators) and a 2nd Assistant Sound. The Boom Operators carefully and skilfully position microphones above the actors to capture natural sounding dialogue and discreetly rig wireless lavalier mics within their costumes. The 2nd Assistant Sound ensures all equipment is prepped and maintained, and they are integral to the smooth running of the sound department.
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What does a Sound Recordist do?
A Sound Recordist primarily works on commercials, documentaries and corporate shoots. Unlike a Production Sound Mixer who leads a full sound department on larger film and TV sets, a Sound Recordist typically handles all aspects of sound recording on their own.
The Sound Recordist operates field recorders, handles microphone selection and placement (boom and lavalier), will monitor levels, timecode sync cameras and manage wireless frequencies to avoid interference. They effectively handle the on set audio workflow, ensuring every recording is clean, consistent, and ready for post production.
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Do you provide your own sound equipment?
Yes, I provide a fully professional, industry standard production sound kit package that ensures reliable, broadcast standard sound for any type of production. This includes recorders, boom microphones, wireless microphone systems, timecode sync and comms. Check out the full list of production sound recording kit I provide.
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Can you work with both small crews and large productions?
I can easily adapt from smaller indie shoots to larger scale, big budget productions with multiple actors and crew.
I regularly work on feature length productions and high end television as well as independent short films, commercials, branded content and corporates. Have a look through my CV
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What areas do you cover?
I am based in South London and will happily travel to any location accross the UK and around the world.
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How much do you charge?
My rates are based on the industry standard BECTU rate for Sound Recordists and Production Sound Mixers in the UK.
Rates will vary depending on the project, length of shoot and equipment package required, so please get in touch with your project details, and either myself or my agent can provide a tailored quote.
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Do you handle timecode and sync?
Yes I provide timecode boxes for each camera as well as digislates for keeping everything in sync.
‘Time of Day’ timecode at the required frame rate will be synced to all cameras and digislates by the sound department
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Do you also provide post-production sound?
My focus is on location sound, but if there has been any unavoidable, unwanted noise on any of my recordings, I will offer to clean up the tracks in post production using Izotope RX.
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Do you work with radio mics or just boom mics?
I use boom mics whenever possible for capturing natural sounding dialogue and talent will always be rigged with a radio mic for maximum flexibility and reliability.
At times when it’s not possible to use the boom due to the size of the shot or when discretion or mobility is needed, the radio mic will be the primary option. Often in post, the the boom and radio mic will be ‘auto aligned’ and used together.
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What happens if there are sound problems on set?
I am always prepared for potential issues with backup equipment, thorough RF coordination and acoustic treatment. If there is any interference or unexpected noise, I troubleshoot quickly to keep the production moving.