The Importance of Different Sound Techniques

Sound is one of the four key areas of filming - it is a vital part of any film. Without it, the film becomes unrealistic and uninteresting. For example, if somebody watches a horror on mute, they will not become scared; if someone watched an emotional film on mute, they would not cry.

So I felt it was important to know and use the correct techniques when it came to sound editing as I recognised their importance. I decided to research the different types of sounds, why they are effective and when they are used:

1) A Diegetic sound (audible/recorded when filming) would be used to allow the audience to hear realistic sounds and to make the film more authentic.

2) A Non diegetic sound (added in after filming) helps create realism; the use of music can also create feelings such as atmosphere or excitement.

3) A director would predominately use synchronous sound to allow the audience to view the film as authentic with the sounds matching the on screen action of the thriller.

4) Sound effects are used to create a sense of reality in the film (e.g. the sound of an explosion or punch).

5) Sound motifs may be used to allow the audience to expect a significant character/event is about to appear or reappear/occur.

6) A sound bridge is used to create a confortable transition between two (visually unrelated) scenes without jarring.

7) Dialogue is used to allow the audience to understand what is happening in the narrative as well as a deeper insight in to the character speaking. Recently (2011) and for the first time in many years, a silent film called "The Artist" was made which has no dialogue in the film whatsoever. However, it still won many awards.

8) Voiceovers are used in films to gain insight regarding the characters thoughts. It can help create a bond between the audience and the character.

9) Ambient sound informs the audience of the films authenticity with its use of natural background sound.

10) A score/ soundtrack is used in films to understand the tone or mood of the film when it is used.