Sound Recordist Rates

The labour rates include a Mixer, Boom, two Wireless Lapel Microphones, and a cable to send audio to the camera. However, it's important to note that the Recorder is not included in the standard labour rate.

For a full day that doesn't require much additional equipment, the cost is typically around $1000. This includes $850 for labour and a standard kit, with an additional fee of $150 for the Recorder.

In addition to the standard equipment covered by the labour rate, there are several essential pieces of equipment required by the sound department for most shoots. Here is a list of additional equipment that may be needed:

Recorder

For most projects, a recorder is essential to record high-quality audio files that include both the audio mixed on set and ISO track recordings of each track, which can be remixed in post-production.

Camera Links

Camera Links are wireless units that send the audio mix to camera. This audio can be sent as a mono or stereo mix and can be used for the main edit or to sync audio and video files from one or more cameras. Camera Links are essential for any shooting using VTR, playback, or live streaming, and they can be very useful on projects with a quick turnaround where syncing audio and files can add time to the editing process. With Camera Links, you can ensure that your audio and video files are synchronized seamlessly, saving you time and streamlining the post-production process.

Timecode Sync

Having timecode synced on both audio and video files is crucial for smooth post-production editing. Timecode synchronization ensures that audio and video files are aligned and can be easily matched in any editing software, saving time and streamlining the editing process. With timecode synced, editors can quickly locate and match audio and video files from multiple cameras and recorders with just a few clicks, ensuring a seamless final product. This feature is particularly useful for large-scale productions with multiple cameras and audio recorders, where manually syncing files can be a time-consuming and error-prone process.

IFB/Headsets

IFBs are wireless headsets that allow members of the production team to listen to what is being recorded in real-time. They are often required on set for directors, producers, clients, and other stakeholders who need to monitor the audio being captured. IFBs are almost always essential on commercial projects where they are used to allow clients to hear what is being shot and provide feedback.

Additional Microphones

The standard labour rate typically includes two wireless lapel microphones and one boom microphone. If additional microphones are required, they will come at an additional cost.

Noise Reduction

In noisy environments, onboard noise reduction can be beneficial in reducing background noise and improving dialogue clarity. With this feature, you will be provided two tracks with noise reduction applied, as well as a version of each track without noise reduction so that they can be adjusted in the edit. This feature can be particularly useful for shoots with a quick turnaround where there is not much time to apply noise reduction in post-production.

While I do have standard commercial rates, I am always happy to discuss rates on a case-by-case basis for the right projects. If you have a non-commercial project such as a film or documentary that you need a Sound Recordist for, please don't hesitate to contact me to talk about the project. I'm open to finding a rate that works for both parties.