'10 Golden Rules'

Below is a copy of what I consider to be 10 rules that need to be remembered when being a sound recordist on shoot and/or using a mixer:

1. Check that all of the equipment works before beginning the shoot - This saves time and avoids any problems arising.
2. Bring a torch - It is often found that you will be operating the mixer on a table out of the way of the studio lighting if not in natural daylight.
3. Ensure that you announce what is being recorded before doing so - It helps describe the scene and saves time when editing!
4. If recording two separate actors with two separate microphones, male sire that each mic is on a separate channel so that their recordings don't interfere with one another - It also helps to edit them individually.
5. Every location should have its own atmos track recorded from the appropriate perspective.
6. Ensure that the Marantz is set to Mic/Line.
7. Gain all of the 'wildtracks' that are needed where feasible.
8. Ideally, all atmos tracks should be recorded in stereo.
9. When using a boomed mic, it should be as close to the source as you can get it - face down as opposed to up, as this prevents unwanted sound.
10. Wait before saying 'speed'. Take this time to check that the crew is silent and that the recording sounds as you want it to.