2. WHAT IS A SOUND DESIGNER?
Sound designers are responsible for providing any required sounds to accompany
screen action/theater. Most sound designers are experienced sound editors who
carry out a managerial roles, steering/providing direction to the work of the
entire sound post production process. As well as creating the sounds for giant
explosions, car crashes and the most common sound ‘rain’ sound design is much
more than just this, it is also the art of creating subtle sounds that enrich the
language and feeling of a film/theoretical production.
3. WHAT THE JOB ENTAILS
Their first task is to identify the three main kinds of sound effects required:
1. Spot effects: gunshots, clocks, doors closing, dog barking, etc.
2. Atmosphere effects: rain, wind, traffic, birdsong, etc.
3. Sound design effects: dinosaurs, aliens, spaceships, computers, etc.
Once this list is complete sound designers source different kinds of sounds,
and often create and record original new material. Time is spent enhancing or
distorting these original recordings to create something new and interesting,
using synthesizers, samplers and audio plug-ins.
4. SKILLS NEEDED FOR THE JOB
Key Skills include:
Excellent aural skills
Creativity and imagination
Ability to work conceptually
Excellent communication skills
Ability to work under pressure to tight, changing deadlines
Organisational and financial skills
Knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation
and procedures
