recordist

A recordist is a professional who records sound for media, including film, television, music, radio, and field or documentary work. In many productions, the on-set recordist is closely related to the production sound mixer and is responsible for capturing dialogue and ambient sounds during production. In studio and field-recording projects, a recordist operates recording equipment, sets up microphones, and oversees takes to obtain usable audio.

Responsibilities include selecting and placing microphones, setting input levels and gain staging, monitoring with headphones, and adjusting during takes to maintain clean signals with acceptable noise levels. The recordist manages the recording chain, from microphones to preamps, converters, and the recording device; ensures synchronization with video or other audio tracks; and organizes files, logs takes, and maintains backups. They also handle issues such as wind, handling noise, hum, and room tone, and may coordinate with the director, producers, and editors.

Common equipment includes portable field recorders, multi-track recorders, wireless microphone receivers, boom poles and microphone capsules, headphones, and digital audio workstations or external recorders. In on-set work, timecode, slate marking, and metadata are often important for post-production. In the studio, a recordist may operate a DAW, perform basic edits, and prepare stems for mixing, though heavy editing is typically the work of editors or mix engineers.

A recordist typically develops through hands-on experience, supported by formal programs in sound recording, audio engineering, or related fields. Essential skills include microphone technique, critical listening, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure to capture high-quality sound.