Filmmaker Spotlight - Karl Pepper
Welcome to the Filmmaker Spotlight – this series shines a light on filmmakers, actors, editors, and more, as we ask them a few questions and uncover why they love what they do.
This time - Karl Pepper
Sound Recordist
Tell us a bit about yourself, how did you get into the industry?
My name is Karl Pepper, I am a sound engineer based in Staffordshire. My interest in audio began many years ago, initially inspired by music. During my studies in Sound Design, at Staffordshire University, I developed a strong appreciation for the diverse aspects of the field.
What drew you specifically to on set sound and boom operating?
I originally never thought that I would get into on set sound and boom operating, but after working on many film sets while I was at University, I started to develop an appreciation for how Sound ops and Boom ops worked. I then developed the skills required to be a sound mixer and boom op. I now love being on film sets, usually being the only sound op and boom op combo.
What’s something about being a boom operator that outsiders, even other crew, would never expect?
The main thing that people never expect about being a boom op, is the endurance required to be able to hold a boom steadily in place for long periods of time, and having the ability to track actors while they are performing.
What have you learnt over time that you wish you knew when you started?
I have learnt over time that being a sound mixer and boom op on set, can be very exhausting, and I definitely wish I knew that when I started. As I have been running solo on most of the film sets I have been on.
Sound is often overlooked by audiences. How important is it really to the success of a scene?
Sound makes up 50% of a film, and it is extremely important for any scene, to have clean audio. This will make audiences feel more engaged with the on-screen presence, even if they do not notice the sound at the time of watching the film, but afterwards, they will look back and think, without the sound, the music, the intense moments in long drawn out scene, it would not have been as impactful without good sound.
What’s one project you’re especially proud of, and why?
I am proud to have worked on all the film sets I have been part of, but I am especially proud to be part of my Wife’s film that she made during the final year of University. The film is called Noodles.
Who or what inspires you in your work?
My work is inspired by all the sound designers from the old days. The sound engineers that worked on the original Star Wars films, and even the prequel Star Wars films made in the 2000’s. Sound designers such as Ben Burtt and Walter Murch.
What’s one thing directors or producers could do to make life easier for sound crew?
If they could make it possible for the sound crew to be a 2 person minimum crew, that would make life much easier on every film set, from small indie productions to larger productions. I personally feel that every department should have a minimum of 2 crew members.
Favourite on-set snack?
My favourite snack on set is Custard Creams, I cannot explain why. They are just delicious, and everyone seems to love them.
Any advice for people wanting to do the job that you do?
My advice would be to research how boom ops work, and the level of endurance that is required to be a boom op. There are many factors to being an on set sound mixer and boom op that people overlook.
Currently working on a project or want to plug something?
I am currently working on a feature film called Deadcast, with a few other smaller scale film sets in between the Deadcast shooting blocks. If anyone wants to check out the short film noodles here is the link, Noodles
