Sound designers

Sound designers previously know an sound effects editors or special effects editors (SFX). They are responsible for providing sound for the screen action. They tend to have been experienced supervising sound editors who carry manager level roles. The will steer the entire post sound production team and as well as creating sound for giant explosions, they will make subtle sound effects that the audience may never notice though it enriches which ever part of the film its used in.

Sound effects are added to the film after production and during editing so the film is able to achieve its wanted identity, location, mood etc. Creating, transforming and positioning. You may be employed by post audio houses, or freelance work and hire a room next to the film production and may even provide their own digital equipment. This job can involve designers working long hours to meet demanding deadlines and schedules.

Job roles?

All depends of the film budget but sound designers usually start work at the same time as other sound editors. It may be before the shooting begins or straight after a scene has been shot and finalized.

You must identify and list the sounds need, they are three categories real Foley, atmospheric sound, and sound effects. After the list is finalized the sounds are the hunted down and recorded of made in the studio.

Typical career routes

All Sound designers ten to be sound enthusiasts having spent years recording and experimenting with sound before breaking into the industry. Sound design is a highly competitive area, so even the most highly qualified new comers must be prepare to start at the bottom. They usually progress from being Runners in Picture or Sound cutting rooms, or in Audio Post Production Facilities houses, to becoming Assistant Re-Recording Mixers or Assistant Sound Editors providing back-up to experienced Sound Editors.

Sound designers tend to have spent a considerable amount of time learning there craft, by working for tv productions or by having a background in music. Many Sound Designers are also Supervising Sound Editors, or Re-Recording Mixers.

Knowledge and skills

As well as a love of sound you must have a great knowledge and past experience in sound both acoustic and digital.

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

Training and qualifications

Competition to become a Sound Designer is increasingly high and even those entering the film industry at junior levels have a B.Mus (Tonmeister) or similar qualification. Many Sound Designers have also specialised in Film and Television Sound at post-graduate level. Sound is one of the best served areas for film and television training in the UK with provision ranging from specialised short courses, to qualifications at HND, BA and post graduate levels.

Income

·         Starting salaries can be from £13,000 a year full-time equivalent

·         With experience, salaries can rise to between £20,000 and £40,000

·         Freelance earnings can be higher or lower, depending on reputation and how much work is available.

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(http://www.creativeskillset.org/film/jobs/post_production_sound/article_4771_1.asp)