By Anna Smith

THE ROLE OF 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.

WHAT IS A SOUND DESIGNER?

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.

WHAT THE JOB ENTAILS

Key Skills include:Excellent aural skills

Creativity and imaginationAbility to work conceptually

Excellent communication skillsAbility to work under pressure to tight, changing deadlines

Organisational and financial skillsKnowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and

Safety legislation and procedures

SKILLS NEEDED FOR THE JOB