Sound
RTS Headquarters
Following a year of change and evolution, what lies next for the TV...
London
Wed, 22/01/2025
Without sound, television would be a very different medium. It transforms moving pictures into a realistic experience. The sound department records and operates the sound equipment, such as microphones and playback equipment, on a production set.
Skills needed
- Knowledge and good operation of sound recording, playback and editing equipment
- Strong communication and aural skills
- Able to move equipment and have physical stamina
- Work well as a team and instruct and accept direction
- Keen attention to detail
- Ability to make quick decisions under pressure
- Sound understanding of other departments including camera, art department and wardrobe
Job roles
- Sound trainee
- Sound assistant
- Boom operator
- Production sound mixer
Duties include
- Set up and take down sound equipment including checking and charging batteries, preparing mics and headphones
- Operating booms, placing radio or clip microphones and laying carpet
- Liaising with producers to discuss creative plans for the production and specific technical requirements
- Ensuring all sound rushes are packaged and labelled
- Looking for any sound faults and fixing them on duty
Useful links
How to get into sound | Tips in 60 seconds
How to break into sound recording | Tips in 60 seconds
How to succeed in sound, with sound supervisor Louise Wilcox
Want to work in sound? Strictly's Sound Supervisor spills the beans