Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1487666
28 W I N T E R 2 0 2 3 I C A S Q U A R T E R L Y How does the modern PSM manage the modern film set, and what does that look like? As a relative newbie with only about 10 years in the sound for film world, and under constant self-pressure to be better at the craft that has chosen me, I sometimes wonder how the pros whom I hold in high regard do their jobs. How those in the same strata as I do the job. And how the pros in other fields of specialty, like reality and commercial work, structure and work with their teams across the world. I set about this with a bit of self-examination to recall how my team has changed over the years since becoming a PSM, relative to the years when I was still training as a utility and a boom op. I then connected with PSM's locally, nationally, and internationally to see how team structure and responsibilities change depending on the nature of the job and exactly where the job is happening. For clarity and brevity, I am going to try to stick with terminology from the USA, where I live and work. Our friends and allies across the pond and about the globe may have different terms, so I'll take a moment here to share the meanings as I understand them. Production Sound Mixer (PSM): Also known as Head of Department, HoD, recordist, or mixer. Boom Operator: Also known as boom, boom op, or 1st assistant sound. Utility Sound Technician (UST): Also known as cableman, utility, 3rd, or 2nd assistant sound. I am forever grateful to the people who helped me gather intel and opinions for this article. Covering the vastness of our industry with award winners from CAS, AMPS, the Academy, BAFTA, and accolades from across the globe, to those like me, who are less decorated with awards but no less passionate about the craft. I called several PSM's directly and had good conversations, but also emailed roughly 60 mixers from around the globe and at various craft specialties to get a better handle on things. Below are their responses to my poll: MANAGING SOUND ON SET b y A a r o n " C u j o " C o o l e y C A S