Duration:
15m
PROFESSIONAL SOUND RECORDING FOR FILM
So you're making a movie. This probably means you'll need sound. For beginning filmmakers, sound can mistakenly be an afterthought, a task to give a generous friend. But recording great sound is vital to the success of a movie, whether it be a no-budget short or a blockbuster movie. In this episode of The Shot List, we look at how a production sound mixer operates on set to get the best audio possible.
HOW TO RECORD SOUND FOR FILM
The production sound mixer works closely with the director and other departments to ensure that the audio quality matches the visual production. This means often being present on tech scouts and being vocal about any potential sound issues that may arrise. The job requires a keen ear, technical expertise, and the ability to adapt to various on-set challenges, such as background noise or difficult acoustic environments. The production sound mixer typically uses high-quality microphones, a mixing console, and recording devices to capture the sound directly during filming.
INTERIOR FILM SET SOUND RECORDING
Interiors often present challenges such as echoes, reverb, or unwanted noise from HVAC systems. To mitigate these issues, sound mixers may use directional microphones like shotgun mics to focus on the audio source while minimizing ambient noise. Placing sound blankets or foam around the set can help absorb excess sound, creating a cleaner recording environment. Boom operators need to carefully position microphones to capture clear dialogue without picking up noise from the set. Often, lav microphones might be used to ensure consistent audio quality.
HOW TO RECORD SOUND FOR EXTERIORS
Recording sound outdoors introduces a different set of challenges, such as wind, traffic, and other environmental noises. To combat these (and other) issues, sound mixers often use windshields or “dead cats” on microphones to reduce wind noise. Directional microphones are once again crucial in exterior settings to isolate dialogue from background noise. Planning is key when recording outside—choosing the right time of day or scouting quieter locations can significantly improve sound quality.
Sound is one-half of a movie. That can often be easy to forget– but a great filmmaker always keeps that in mind. Save money in the budget for a sound pro.
