Duration:
16m
FILM SOUND RECORDING FOR BEGINNERS
Pretty much every live action movie made today requires sound to be recorded on set. Sound, after all, is one half of the film experience. And yet, sound is often undervalued and under-considered when beginning filmmakers are on set. In this episode of the Shot List, we dive into the extremely important, and complex, world of production sound.
WHAT IS SOUND?
To understand how to record sound, you need to know the physics of how sound is made and captured. Sound is a vibration that travels through air or another medium and can be heard when it reaches a person's or animal's ear. It is produced by vibrating objects, creating pressure waves in the surrounding medium. Recording sound involves capturing these vibrations using a microphone, which converts them into electrical signals. These signals are then processed and stored in a digital or analog format.
RECORDING SOUND FOR FILM
There are a plethora of terms you need to know if you want to work in the sound department on a film. There's the single system vs. the double system, the sound cart, polar patterns, pre-amps...The list goes on and on. And this isn't to mention the different types of mics, like the lavalier, the shotgun, dynamic mics, compressor mics, and much more.
PRODUCTION SOUND MIXERS AND MORE
So who exactly is a part of the sound department? The production sound mixer oversees the department, ensuring all sound is recorded clearly. The boom operator manages the boom microphone, positioning it to capture dialogue without being visible in the shot. Sound utility technicians assist with setting up equipment, managing cables, and handling additional microphones. They also troubleshoot technical issues.
HOW TO RECORD SOUND
Recording good sound on a film set is crucial as it enhances the overall quality and realism of the film. Clear, well-captured audio ensures that dialogue is intelligible and immersive, directly affecting audience engagement. Poor sound quality can distract viewers, undermining the film's impact. So the next time you're on set, make sure your sound guy is a pro.
