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What is a Boom Microphone?

Jennifer Fenn
Jennifer Fenn

A boom microphone is a directional microphone mounted or attached to a pole or arm. Primarily used in film and television, this type of microphone frees the hands of actors or reporters while allowing them to enjoy the amplified audio of a traditional microphone. Boom mics can also be used to amplify a group conversation, as they can be positioned so that everyone's voice can be heard.

A boom mic is simple enough to fashion for amateur productions. A broomstick, microphone stand, or fishing pole can be used to hold the microphone aloft. In fact, on-set, this pole is often called a fish pole. One concern with this type of microphone is vibrations that could mar audio quality. Boom microphones are sensitive enough to pick up such unwanted vibrations as unsteady hands, for example. To prevent this, the microphone should include some type of isolating mechanism, such as foam padding or elastic suspensions.

A boom microphone is mounted or attached to a pole or arm.
A boom microphone is mounted or attached to a pole or arm.

There are some issues to consider while working with a boom microphone. Those operating the mic must be careful that it doesn't creep into the shot, which distracts the audience and looks unprofessional. For optimal audio, it should be kept as close to those speaking as possible without it being visible on film. As some boom microphones are battery-powered, it is important to make sure the batteries are charged before beginning to film. Sometimes one requires a team to properly operate. For example, when filming a subject walking forward, the person holding the boom microphone has to walk backward. To avoid falling or ending up with the microphone in the shot, the operator might require an assistant to guide him.

A boom operator is responsible for deciding where a microphone should be placed in order to capture the best sound.
A boom operator is responsible for deciding where a microphone should be placed in order to capture the best sound.

On professional film and television productions, a boom operator is primarily responsible for handling a boom microphone. A boom operator decides where the microphone should be placed in order to capture the best sound, for example. A boom operator might also decide to augment the sound recorded by the boom microphone with small lapel microphones or other types of microphones. Making sure the microphone is steadily positioned is another job of the boom operator. This requires a steady hand and arm strength.

Boom mics may be used to amplify a group conversation.
Boom mics may be used to amplify a group conversation.

The boom operator must also review and remember a production's script, as he must be able to follow the dialogue and action with the microphone. Other important skills for boom operators include being a team player, technological savvy, and patience, as working on a set might include long hours with lots of delays. Though there is not a particular degree that qualifies one to work as a boom operator, many boom operators obtain a film degree to increase their knowledge of movie and television production in general. Internships provide potential boom operators with valuable experience and training.

Discussion Comments

Albona

@GrassyKnoll - Yeah, I've had that problem. It's hard to make films seem "well-done" with poor quality of audio. I can't tell you how many times I've had to work with source audio that seems fuzzy and obscured because I just simply can't afford a better microphone. I wonder where one can find budget film equipment.

GrassyKnoll

Another issue that filmmakers run into when using boom microphones is the presence of ambient noise. This is an especially significant problem for amateur filmmakers, as cheaper boom microphones aren't as well equipped to filter out the ambient noise. With lower quality boom mics, the quality of the source audio is compromised by this ambient noise, thus making for a lower quality of film all around. With lower quality boom mics, some locations just simply be captured well because of he excessive ambient noise, such as near freeways and in busy public spaces.

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    • A boom microphone is mounted or attached to a pole or arm.
      By: soundsnaps
      A boom microphone is mounted or attached to a pole or arm.
    • A boom operator is responsible for deciding where a microphone should be placed in order to capture the best sound.
      By: antbphotos
      A boom operator is responsible for deciding where a microphone should be placed in order to capture the best sound.
    • Boom mics may be used to amplify a group conversation.
      By: TOM ANG
      Boom mics may be used to amplify a group conversation.
    • A boom microphone may be used on film and television sets.
      By: bruno135_406
      A boom microphone may be used on film and television sets.