The Purpose of a Boom Mic in Audio Recording and Filming
When you watch a film or listen to a concert, you may notice a tall pole with a microphone suspended over the stage. This is often a boom mic stand, which is a versatile tool used in both television and film production. But what is the purpose of a boom mic?
Understanding Boom Mics and Their Uses
A boom mic stand is a microphone stand that allows the microphone to be placed far away. Simply put, it has an extension on it that can move the microphone to a distance from the subject. This type of microphone stand is particularly useful in performances and film shots where the microphone can't be in close proximity to the subject. For instance, you will often see performers using boom mics for vocals on stage. Large boom stands are also used for overhead microphones to capture sounds from instruments like drums or for video production where the microphone needs to be kept out of the frame.
The Role of Shotgun Microphones and Boom Mics
Boom mic stands are commonly used with shotgun microphones, which are highly directional and extremely sensitive. These microphones have a very narrow capture angle, making them perfect for capturing sound from a distance. To ensure the microphone remains pointed at the subject at all times, an operator will mount the shotgun microphone on a boom stand. This ensures that the microphone can move with the subject without the need for physical repositioning. When you say "boom," people immediately think of the shotgun microphone at the end of the arm.
Applications in Filming and Television
Boom mic stands are widely used in television and film productions. They allow the microphone to be lifted above the camera range, allowing the operator to get close enough to the actors to capture their voices. This is particularly useful for maintaining a natural speaking distance while ensuring that the microphone is not visible in the camera shot. Additionally, boom mics can be used to reach out over the space in a way that stays out of the way, helping to avoid picking up noise from objects like the boom pole of a large bass drum.
Utilizing Boom Mics for Distance Recording
In many filming situations, it's important to record someone's voice from a distance. This can be useful for various reasons. During the ongoing pandemic, some people use boom mics to keep distance from the person they are recording, such as a performer or speaker, to ensure safety. In other scenarios, boom mics help maintain a clean image in video productions by keeping the microphone out of the frame.
Other Uses for Boom Mics
Boom mic stands have numerous other applications beyond just film and television. For example, as a musician, you can use a boom mic stand on stage to make room for your instrument. This stand keeps the microphone stand far enough away to avoid accidental damage to your instrument. Similarly, in a studio setting, boom stands are used for hanging microphones, such as condenser or dynamic microphones, to capture vocals. Booms also allow for the mic to be positioned precisely, making it easier to use a music stand for lyric sheets and notes. It's not uncommon for booms to be used by singers with multiple arms, providing them with the extra hand they need to hold additional sheets or instruments.
Conclusion
In summary, boom mic stands are essential tools in audio recording and filming. Their primary purpose is to provide flexibility and control over microphone placement, ensuring high-quality audio capture while keeping the microphone out of the way. Whether you're recording a live event, filming a scene, or working in a studio, boom mic stands are a valuable asset that can enhance your audio recording and filming projects.