Documentary/Remote Sound Tech

[Nick_1234]

Hello,

I was curious if anyone would know how to get into being a location sound tech for a documentary, things like National Geographic, Animal Planet, Discovery, etc.

I have contact National Geographic once before about this, but was informed they outsource for that, and didn't have specifics.

This is something that I would REALLY REALLY like to get into. Empasize on the really, haha. Being outdoors, traveling and being able to work in this field would be an ideal situation for me.

However I don't really know where to start, being able to at least get in contact with someone or a company that is involved in these types of jobs would be the first step. Just can't seem to get my footing right.

Could any of you remote cats lend some advice to a young guy with open ears? Any advice/suggestions would be greatly appreciated, and will certainly take the swift kick in the rear if that's what comes with it.
Respect.
N.

[Sound Sorcerer]

Hey Nick,
I do work regularly for several companies who produce content for Discovery Networks, NatGeo, History Channel, Sundance, etc... Most of them are based out of New York, LA, San Fran, Washington DC & the UK. Maybe try to get in contact with your local Film Commission and some NY based TV Crewing Companies.
Cheers!

[surflounge]

There are some stories about using Metric Halo gear for what you want:
Metric Halo News

[Nick_1234]

Sound sorcerer,

Thanks for the email. Would you be willing to throw out a few company names? I haven't done this kind of work since college, but have been doing radio, and other audio jobs so I'm sure I will catch on.

If you don't mind me asking, what is your experience like doing things like this? Do you get to travel a fair amount? I have a few questions for you if you'd be willing to answer them.

Surflouge,

Checking it out.

Thanks again for the input!

-N.

[Sound Sorcerer]

Nick, Go to:
www.realitystaff.com
check the job list frequently... You must own the least a broadcast quality ENG kit (2 wireless lavs, boom mic, field mixer & brake-away cable). But there's people who will ask you for 6 wireless mic's & boom, IFB, wireless hop to camera, Cantar or Deva field recorder, etc... Depends on the project.
For production sound equipment vendors try:
Trew Audio
Gotham Sound and Communications
Location Sound Corp

Production Sound Mixer's usenet:
Discussions - rec.arts.movies.production.sound | Google Groups

Cheers!
SS

[Karl_Lohninger]

As always one starts with a first step. If you're new, you're not getting into these kind of shows, why would you? Owning gear or not doesn't make a difference either, you can always rent what you need.
Just start with small shoots and ,yes, they'll be unpaid in the beginning, but you've got to learn your job too. If you're doing good over time you'll meet people that will refer you to real jobs and so on......

does that make sense.....?

good luck, Karl

Karl Lohninger, currently Berlin

talking about jobs:

for a short 3 day shoot for the French/German TV channel ARTE we still need more sound mixers as well as sound equipment. 80 separate crews will document life in the city during 24 hours. If you're not too far away from Berlin (Germany) PM me. 2 prep days, 1 shooting day. Begins 09/03/08.

[Nick_1234]

Karl,

Thanks for the info.

So getting my own gear is something I can wait for (whew!) I would need the work prior before I could purchase anyway.

What would you suggest I do to get into it. I already work full-time M-F so I would need to do it outside of that ( I've got gnarly student loan payments....)?

I would LOVE to help out in Berlin, however I won't be in the area

-N

[Sound Sorcerer]

If you can't afford buying your own gear at this moment or moving to Berlin & work with Karl, maybe try getting on gigs like this:
boom operator Film TV Jobs @ mandy.com
It might be a good start...

[Karl_Lohninger]

As mentioned, check the various lists (craigs, mandy, etc) where lots of smallish shoots are announced. They're probably quite amateur, but that's fine, you are too. Check with whatever film/art/journalism etc school/college is close to where you live. Many of these shoots happen during weekend anyway. And, start getting creative. If you really want to get into this thing, start moving and don't expect any kind of carpets rolled out and waiting for you. After some time you might also find out a funky little secret: that is that the sound mixer is often the only paid person on these no-budget gigs. Of course only if you know what you're doing so start learning - throw yourself in - and make all mistakes there is to make - it's still the only way to learn in my book ;-)

Voila, c'est ca. Good luck, Karl

[Nick_1234]

Sorcerer,

Thanks again, you've been helpful. I will definetly be using this website to get a chance at something. Thinking about getting onto a local tv station here for as a boom op, figure its a start and I can learn the job/responsibilites.

Karl,

Seems like I may ned to start here locally, don't really have the option of just packing up and leaving. I appreciate all the advice as I will keep it in mind while I try and make something of this.

Thanks again guys!

Respect,
Nick

[soundbarnfool]

Originally Posted by Karl_Lohninger

After some time you might also find out a funky little secret: that is that the sound mixer is often the only paid person on these no-budget gigs. ;-)

Voila, c'est ca. Good luck, Karl

That's because it's so glamorous!