Sound

Film is both an aural and a visual experience. However, if the visuals constitute 50 percent of that experience, sound might be said to equal 60 percent. The math may not make sense, but if a film doesn’t sound right, the visuals won’t work either.

Consider this: As you move through the world, you are only ever able to see what is directly in front of you. This limits you to a visual perspective of about 180 degrees. In contrast, your aural perception of the world isn’t subject to such limits. You hear not only everything that is in front of and behind you, but also everything that is above and below you.

If you can translate that onto the screen, you are guaranteed to create a rich and believable experience for the audience.

This happens in two steps.

As much as a picture is designed to create emotion, it is the sound that underscores every emotional beat that you experience.

Just try turning off the sound of your favorite horror movie. What do you feel?

As with everything, it is important to understand some of the technical side of sound.

Let’s look at the following concepts:

• • • • • • • • defining sound
              • measuring sound
              • how microphones work
              • pickup patterns
              • digital sound