Sound & Picture
Scenario - You have been comissioned to create a soundtrack for a number of different films being produced by a major film company. You have been asked to create a portfolio of techniques and research to show the film company how you intend to go about creating the soundtracks. You should aim to give a clear and detailed analysis of multiple techniques, as well as including practical examples where possible.
Task 1: - Moving Images
Film:
Movie making is a very profitable business, it is also a form of art that professionals use to make a creative difference in the world and also for education purposes in an informative and moral form.
Television:
Creating a Television programme is very similar too creating a film and follows the same creative process and stages. However it has a shorter time period than a film which in most cases is shown/broadcasted on a weekly basis meaning the cast and crew have to sometimes repeat the stages. A lot of TV is based from Market Research and giving the audience what they are after using statistics of what is performing well or has performed well or gaps within the market. In most cases a PILOT is aired to test the shows statistical performance and more episodes will be produced upon a positive response. Television is produced for three main purposes the same as film.
Web:
Many Websites use videos and they are not necessarily made online however there is possible tools out there that allow you too produce videos without actually using a camera. A major platform popular for this is YouTube. Web videos can be produced for several different purposes such as entertainment, marketing, tutorials, educational, product demonstrations and personal videos. Many Web videos are produced in home based environments which is possible due to the easy access to content creating and editing software.
Hand Held Devices:
Now-a-days there is a wide range of media devices giving you the ability to film, capture and store moments and memories. These Devices possess multiple uses which can be used for a number of different purposes. A typical hand held device is an Iphone which gives several different functions for recording and capturing such as Time-Lapses, slo-mo, panoramic images etc with a high quality camera. The primary purpose of this is too capture moments and memories and share them with others, however with the ability of a good camera it can be used for any use a normal camera holds however may not be as high quality.
Video:
Video Production in a whole is the art and service of content creation and deliverance of a finished video product. This ranges from Television commercials and Programmes, Event videos, Corporate videos, home & Wedding videos etc and can also range in production size. In most cases modern technology/current media products will be used to capture the video with use of an SD card however it was different in the paste using media products such as video tapes and hard disk. It is now digital distributed in several different formats, popular format examples being mp4. or .mpeg.
It is equivalent to film-making however the images are recorded digitally instead of a film stock which is also now being used within the film industry.
Animation:
Animation is the process of producing the illusion of motion and change by the use of several static images, that minimally differ from one another, in a rapid display. The illusion relies on the Phi Phenomenon (The phi phenomenon is the optical illusion of perceiving a series of still images, when viewed in rapid succession, as continuous motion). Animators are artists that specialize in animation creation. It can be recorded in several different way: analogue media, motion picture film, video tape, a flip book, digital media and video and flash animation including formats with animated GIF's. Animation can be displayed with a digital camera, computer, a projector along with new technology being produced. Animation creation methods are both traditional and modern. It can be created using stop motion animation of two and three dimensional products of clay figures, puppets etc. Being displayed in usually 24, 25, 30 or 60 frames per second.
Studio & Location:
There are several different factors to consider when recording sound or dialogue on location & in the studio each having advantages and disadvantages.
On location normally means exactly as it sounds ( diegetic ) and tend to be a location that is is not optimised for sound however tho can be prevented with a 'Deadcat' ( muffle cover for the microphone ) softening out sharp noises such as atmospheric noises, wind, electrics etc. The main disadvantage of location recording is that the audio will never be 100 percent clear as the environment is uncontrolled and unpredictable, so a lot of preparation must be put into this.
When studio recording the sound is more clear and preserved due to the confined space and this also cuts out the equipment use such as 'Deadcats'. This option is often used in TV shows that aren't aired live or Films where the audio can be recorded again for a clearer effect. However when recording in a studio you lose a sense of realism by cancelling out the natural background which is very desirable in productions, this can however sometimes be resolved in post production editing. Recording in a studio often goes for such things like voice overs, game shows, presentations and dialogue scenes.
Interviews:
Taking places in a range of environments this adapts a range of techniques to gather the best outcome, in terms of audio, from the interview. Most interviews take places in unpredictable environments however they can take place in studios, depending on the related factors.
Using mini clip-on Microphones for each of the speakers and more boom pole operators is the most efficient and safest way of gathering audio, this is easily regulated within a studio. However if the e.g. reporter is out in the public normally only one microphone is being used for easy access to most locations ( travelling within two normally unless there is room for a sound crew) which results in factors to consider such as background noise which can be reduced using additional equipment such as a 'deadcat' or 'wind deflector'.
Presentation:
Presentation audio holds similarities to how things are recorded and edited in a studio. When presenting to a large audience, in most cases, a speaker/speakers are often connected to a regulated microphone for a crisp and clear sound around the hall when presenting. This is often a hand held mic or transmitter making it hands free ( more presentable ) which eliminates the need for a sound crew. Often a presentation is supported with content for them to show and explain such as a presentation, video etc. this will usually include sound supporting the content and can also be used to support effects in the presentation which will also be played from the speakers ensuring that the audio levels are correct ( loudness, bass and sound clarity ). Most presentations are a live event so not much editing is included ( if needed ).
Voice-over:
Voice overs for moving images are often easily recorded and added with great effect. Usually taking place in a studio so no background noise will interrupt the audio, voice overs have several different purposes such as narration, dialogue or replacement. The image will be displayed to the actor/voice actor and the script will be read linear to this. Although it may take a few attempts as the voice over must fit to the content ( considering mood and speed ). Can be used for both Diegetic and Non-Diegetic noises and used in all aspects of film and TV.
Drama Dialogue:
When recording Drama Dialogue, in most cases, there is more crew used as dramas are seen as an on screen world and the characters do not have visible microphones to collect the audio. Boom poles are used so this way the audio can be recorded without the needed equipment and crew in the shot.
The boom operators using physical strength to hold the boom pole for a prolonged period of time at a specific angle to gather the audio however staying out of the shot, working very closely with the camera operator to achieve this.
There normally is more than one operator of the Boom Poles based on the number of characters so that the dialogue is of equal sound level and not focused on one character adding a sense of realism within the audio. Sometimes a sound mixer is used on set to regulate the audio levels as the recording continues or can be altered in a studio to avoid background noise and interruptions which must be considered at all times when filming.
Ambient Sound:
Ambient sound is often referred to as atmospheric sound or background noise heard in the background of a scene/location which can be recorded on location or added in the editing process. Recording on locations allows the ambient sound to be recorded in the background of the miss being used for other purposes such as dialogue which can however sometimes by interrupted by the noise of focused character. Another problem to consider is the cuts between the shots that were from two different takes causing the ambient noise to jump or alter in this unpredictable environment which is very noticeable. in order to tackle this a possibility is capturing extra sound after the scene is shot so it can be edited at a later stage.
Sound Effects (sfx):
A sound effect is a sound other than speech or music made artificially for use in a play, film, or other broadcast production. Used mainly to support and express actions within the media product it is recording something to replace a sound for another object. These sounds are normally sounds that aren't often heard or can not be generated unless a sound is manipulated and warped with a number of other sounds.
Stationary and Moving Sound Sources:
Stationary sound sources come from an object or person that is static ( not moving ). This sound usually has a constant quality with the pitch and volume being sustained when picked up by the microphone as it is being sourced from the same spot.
A moving sound source come from a person/object that is moving in any direction from the sound recording source. Due to the Doppler effect, the pitch and volume of the moving sound alters depending on its/their position as when the object/person is moving towards the sound recording source the sound waves, as it gets closer, compress causing a smaller wavelength and therefore a higher frequency. However if the person/object is moving away from the source the sound waves spread out more, creating a longer wavelength meaning a lower frequency.
Use of Presence:
The Use of Presence means how the sounds are mixed so that the viewer/listener has a feeling of proximity from the sound source (near or far) this is often mistaken with atmosphere sound or ambience. This can be achieved in several different ways, the simplest being varying the sound levels based on distance so the further away the sound source the quieter and vice versa.
Diegetic:
Diegetic sound is the audio which can visually be seen in the shot or frame such as dialogue or sound made by objects upon actions. This is the foundation for the sound as it includes all of the audio recorded there and then on the set and can also be seen as the sound that the characters can here within the films world.
Non-Diegetic:
Non-Diegetic sound is the sound created outside of the film world however added in at a later stage for several different purposed. This is something not seen in the shot and can not be heard by the characters ( can be heard sometimes based on the situation ). This tends to be music or soundtracks that the audience can hear but the characters in the shot can not. This is used to add emphasis, mode in the scene and delivering impact within the scene and up port the characters actions.
External Diegetic:
External Diegetic Sound holds similar properties to non-diegetic sounds however holding a very different purpose. This is added into the scene from outside of the shot however heard by both the characters and audience. This includes foley sound effects, background noise and ambient sounds which are added into the scene during the editing stage. This is used when the scene lacks specific audio then this method can be used to create depth and support the shot. Another example of this would be Narration that can interact with bot the audience and the characters ( if intended ) so that the audience feel included within the story or helps express the story.
Mood:
Mood will be considered at all times to get the audience to react in the way the producer and director intend. This can be supported with diegetic, non-diegetic and external diegetic sounds all used for different purposes to set the mood. Diegetic adding a realism effect and supporting the shot and scene, however this is not always used, in specific times it creates more of an effect and relation to the character. Non-diegetic sounds can be added to support the actions of the characters/objects or to achieve a different reaction the audience have with use of soundtracks/music etc. External Diegetic sound can add depth and more meaning to the shot/scene when a specific audio is lacked to create and effect.
There are many factors to consider in terms of audio when it comes to the 'Mood' all with different purposes to achieve the desired audience reaction. A great example of this would be music/sound tempo displaying the intensity or emotional aroma of the scene/shot.
Meaning:
Meaning goes hand in hand with mood, its all based on how the audience reacts to a specific action/object within the scene. This can be supported will all types of audio and character actions etc all of the factors building up to a specific meaning within the story.
Illusion:
Illusion is a misconception which can perceive the audience into believing something is there or something is happening when actually when being filmed/produced it is all a matter of making things seem a certain way to the shot when physically it is far from this. This can be produced with audio for a specific effect and also support actions and adding realism to the illusion.
Task 2: - Audio Components
Studio & Location:
There are several different factors to consider when recording sound or dialogue on location & in the studio each having advantages and disadvantages.
On location normally means exactly as it sounds ( diegetic ) and tend to be a location that is is not optimised for sound however tho can be prevented with a 'Deadcat' ( muffle cover for the microphone ) softening out sharp noises such as atmospheric noises, wind, electrics etc. The main disadvantage of location recording is that the audio will never be 100 percent clear as the environment is uncontrolled and unpredictable, so a lot of preparation must be put into this.
When studio recording the sound is more clear and preserved due to the confined space and this also cuts out the equipment use such as 'Deadcats'. This option is often used in TV shows that aren't aired live or Films where the audio can be recorded again for a clearer effect. However when recording in a studio you lose a sense of realism by cancelling out the natural background which is very desirable in productions, this can however sometimes be resolved in post production editing. Recording in a studio often goes for such things like voice overs, game shows, presentations and dialogue scenes.
Interviews:
Taking places in a range of environments this adapts a range of techniques to gather the best outcome, in terms of audio, from the interview. Most interviews take places in unpredictable environments however they can take place in studios, depending on the related factors.
Using mini clip-on Microphones for each of the speakers and more boom pole operators is the most efficient and safest way of gathering audio, this is easily regulated within a studio. However if the e.g. reporter is out in the public normally only one microphone is being used for easy access to most locations ( travelling within two normally unless there is room for a sound crew) which results in factors to consider such as background noise which can be reduced using additional equipment such as a 'deadcat' or 'wind deflector'.
Presentation:
Presentation audio holds similarities to how things are recorded and edited in a studio. When presenting to a large audience, in most cases, a speaker/speakers are often connected to a regulated microphone for a crisp and clear sound around the hall when presenting. This is often a hand held mic or transmitter making it hands free ( more presentable ) which eliminates the need for a sound crew. Often a presentation is supported with content for them to show and explain such as a presentation, video etc. this will usually include sound supporting the content and can also be used to support effects in the presentation which will also be played from the speakers ensuring that the audio levels are correct ( loudness, bass and sound clarity ). Most presentations are a live event so not much editing is included ( if needed ).
Voice-over:
Voice overs for moving images are often easily recorded and added with great effect. Usually taking place in a studio so no background noise will interrupt the audio, voice overs have several different purposes such as narration, dialogue or replacement. The image will be displayed to the actor/voice actor and the script will be read linear to this. Although it may take a few attempts as the voice over must fit to the content ( considering mood and speed ). Can be used for both Diegetic and Non-Diegetic noises and used in all aspects of film and TV.
Drama Dialogue:
When recording Drama Dialogue, in most cases, there is more crew used as dramas are seen as an on screen world and the characters do not have visible microphones to collect the audio. Boom poles are used so this way the audio can be recorded without the needed equipment and crew in the shot.
The boom operators using physical strength to hold the boom pole for a prolonged period of time at a specific angle to gather the audio however staying out of the shot, working very closely with the camera operator to achieve this.
There normally is more than one operator of the Boom Poles based on the number of characters so that the dialogue is of equal sound level and not focused on one character adding a sense of realism within the audio. Sometimes a sound mixer is used on set to regulate the audio levels as the recording continues or can be altered in a studio to avoid background noise and interruptions which must be considered at all times when filming.
Ambient Sound:
Ambient sound is often referred to as atmospheric sound or background noise heard in the background of a scene/location which can be recorded on location or added in the editing process. Recording on locations allows the ambient sound to be recorded in the background of the miss being used for other purposes such as dialogue which can however sometimes by interrupted by the noise of focused character. Another problem to consider is the cuts between the shots that were from two different takes causing the ambient noise to jump or alter in this unpredictable environment which is very noticeable. in order to tackle this a possibility is capturing extra sound after the scene is shot so it can be edited at a later stage.
Sound Effects (sfx):
A sound effect is a sound other than speech or music made artificially for use in a play, film, or other broadcast production. Used mainly to support and express actions within the media product it is recording something to replace a sound for another object. These sounds are normally sounds that aren't often heard or can not be generated unless a sound is manipulated and warped with a number of other sounds.
Stationary and Moving Sound Sources:
Stationary sound sources come from an object or person that is static ( not moving ). This sound usually has a constant quality with the pitch and volume being sustained when picked up by the microphone as it is being sourced from the same spot.
A moving sound source come from a person/object that is moving in any direction from the sound recording source. Due to the Doppler effect, the pitch and volume of the moving sound alters depending on its/their position as when the object/person is moving towards the sound recording source the sound waves, as it gets closer, compress causing a smaller wavelength and therefore a higher frequency. However if the person/object is moving away from the source the sound waves spread out more, creating a longer wavelength meaning a lower frequency.
Use of Presence:
The Use of Presence means how the sounds are mixed so that the viewer/listener has a feeling of proximity from the sound source (near or far) this is often mistaken with atmosphere sound or ambience. This can be achieved in several different ways, the simplest being varying the sound levels based on distance so the further away the sound source the quieter and vice versa.
Task 3: - Relationship between Sound and Picture
Diegetic:
Diegetic sound is the audio which can visually be seen in the shot or frame such as dialogue or sound made by objects upon actions. This is the foundation for the sound as it includes all of the audio recorded there and then on the set and can also be seen as the sound that the characters can here within the films world.
Non-Diegetic:
Non-Diegetic sound is the sound created outside of the film world however added in at a later stage for several different purposed. This is something not seen in the shot and can not be heard by the characters ( can be heard sometimes based on the situation ). This tends to be music or soundtracks that the audience can hear but the characters in the shot can not. This is used to add emphasis, mode in the scene and delivering impact within the scene and up port the characters actions.
External Diegetic:
External Diegetic Sound holds similar properties to non-diegetic sounds however holding a very different purpose. This is added into the scene from outside of the shot however heard by both the characters and audience. This includes foley sound effects, background noise and ambient sounds which are added into the scene during the editing stage. This is used when the scene lacks specific audio then this method can be used to create depth and support the shot. Another example of this would be Narration that can interact with bot the audience and the characters ( if intended ) so that the audience feel included within the story or helps express the story.
Mood:
Mood will be considered at all times to get the audience to react in the way the producer and director intend. This can be supported with diegetic, non-diegetic and external diegetic sounds all used for different purposes to set the mood. Diegetic adding a realism effect and supporting the shot and scene, however this is not always used, in specific times it creates more of an effect and relation to the character. Non-diegetic sounds can be added to support the actions of the characters/objects or to achieve a different reaction the audience have with use of soundtracks/music etc. External Diegetic sound can add depth and more meaning to the shot/scene when a specific audio is lacked to create and effect.
There are many factors to consider in terms of audio when it comes to the 'Mood' all with different purposes to achieve the desired audience reaction. A great example of this would be music/sound tempo displaying the intensity or emotional aroma of the scene/shot.
Meaning:
Meaning goes hand in hand with mood, its all based on how the audience reacts to a specific action/object within the scene. This can be supported will all types of audio and character actions etc all of the factors building up to a specific meaning within the story.
Illusion:
Illusion is a misconception which can perceive the audience into believing something is there or something is happening when actually when being filmed/produced it is all a matter of making things seem a certain way to the shot when physically it is far from this. This can be produced with audio for a specific effect and also support actions and adding realism to the illusion.
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