Sound assistants generally assist the sound recordist to make sure the whole sound recording process runs smoothly and safely; they also provide general support to the sound crew.
Sound assistants generally assist the sound recordist to make sure the whole sound recording process runs smoothly and safely; they also provide general support to the sound crew. They unload and set up sound equipment and PA systems. They de-rig and reload at the end of the day. They attach mics and run cables in effective, safe positions and often lay carpet to stop unwanted noise being picked up from the floor.
Sound assistant roles can vary in seniority depending on the production. On many productions, this is the entry level role. Sound assistants do jobs like replacing and changing batteries, securing and monitoring cabling and making teas and coffees. On some productions, sound assistants have a little more experience and are required to monitor sound and record background sound with a boom.
If there are any issues with unwanted noise, sound assistants need to deal with these as quickly as possible, communicating tactfully with whoever’s making the noise so the shoot is not disturbed. At the end of the day, they make sure all the sound media has been labelled and any sound paperwork delivered to the production office.
Sound assistants are usually employed as freelancers and are often requested by the same sound recordists after a good working relationship has been established.