What is a microphone attached to an adjustable arm appearing just out of frame called?

A microphone attached to an adjustable arm that appears just out of frame is referred to as a boom. This is a crucial element in film and audio production, as it allows for the microphone to be positioned close to the sound source, capturing audio effectively while remaining out of the viewer’s sight. The flexibility of the adjustable arm means that the microphone can easily be moved or adjusted to optimize sound capture without being visible in the final shot. This technique is particularly important in maintaining audio quality in dialogue scenes while preserving the visual integrity of the film.

Using a boom ensures that the microphone can pick up sound from various angles or positions, which is essential for dynamic scenes. The use of a boom is a standard practice in film and television to achieve clear sound without the microphone intruding on the visual composition.