A boom pole is a long, adjustable pole used in film and audio production to hold a microphone close to the sound source while keeping it out of the camera's view. It allows sound engineers to capture clear audio without intruding on the visual composition of a scene. Typically made of lightweight materials like aluminum or carbon fiber, boom poles can extend several feet in length. They are often used in conjunction with a shotgun microphone, which is designed to pick up sound from a specific direction, enhancing audio quality during filming or recording sessions.