Meet Javier Salamanca | Production Sound Mixer
We had the good fortune of connecting with Javier Salamanca and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Javier, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Taking risks is an inherent part of daily life, especially for those who are self-employed or business owners. This principle has been pivotal in my career development. Embracing every opportunity, regardless of less-than-ideal production rates or working hours, was crucial. I always strived to deliver high-quality sound, no matter the circumstances. At the start of my production sound mixing career, the uncertainty of success, the viability of making a living, and the significant initial investment in necessary equipment were significant risks I faced. However, risk-taking has been fundamental to my growth and transformation. There are 3 things to consider.
1. Risk: It’s essential not to shy away from new opportunities that can propel your career or business forward.
2. Sacrifice: The industry demands considerable time and often disrupts work-life balance. Sacrifices include missing family and friends’ events, physical and mental stress, foregoing hobbies, and losing sleep.
3. Investment: Investing in both professional equipment and personal growth is vital. Continuous learning, whether from others or through self-reflection and improvement, is crucial. Never become complacent; always strive to expand your knowledge and skills. Investing in your future involves these steps.
Ultimately, all these aspects stem from taking that initial risk to enter the industry.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart from others in my field is my unwavering commitment to delivering the best possible results for every production, regardless of the circumstances. I always strive to ensure that my clients are satisfied with the outcome of my work.
One of the things I am most proud of is the diverse and enriching experiences I have had on set. Every day brings something new, and working on various sets throughout the month allows me to meet new people and create memorable experiences.
Professionally, my journey has been relatively brief but intense. I’ve been a sound mixer for just four years, yet I have worked extensively, often every single day. This relentless schedule has been challenging, especially since I frequently work as a one-man band, handling both mixing and booming simultaneously. It’s demanding work, and I credit my early commitment to physical fitness for my ability to endure the rigors of carrying heavy gear all day, often in extreme conditions.
What I want the world to know about me is my dedication to helping new sound mixers. I am always open to assisting them in figuring things out and even finding work to get them started. If they have any questions, I am here to help and support them.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I’m being completely honest, I haven’t had the chance to explore the sights in my own city as much as I’d like. My work keeps me incredibly busy, and I don’t often take the time to visit local attractions. Additionally, I’m more of an introvert and tend to be a homebody when I’m not working. So, while I might not have a detailed itinerary of must-visit places, I do appreciate the comfort and relaxation of home life.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I believe my journey’s success is significantly attributed to the unwavering support of my family. From the moment I decided to pursue a career in the film industry, they never questioned or ridiculed my choice. Instead, they stood by me, offering constant encouragement and support.
Early in my Sound career I had the privilege of meeting one of my key mentors, Trent K. As a camera operator who’s been in the industry for an extensive amount of years, Trent provided invaluable guidance. He did something I didn’t realize I needed: he pointed out my mistakes while always offering solutions for improvement. His mentorship greatly influenced my development, shaping my mindset and helping me become a reliable professional sound mixer.
Additionally, I owe much of my motivation to my fellow sound mixer friends. Sharing common experiences with them has been incredibly encouraging. We support each other, and I hope we all achieve success in our respective paths.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/havocjjs.music/?hl=en
Other: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm10687683/
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