Presentations
Calling the Roll
"Lights, Camera, Action." Maybe in an old Mickey Rooney film, but that's not quite how we do it on a real set. Learn the proper sequence of commands for shooting a scene, whether on sprocketed film or electronic media.
The Priorities of Recording
Production Mixers are responsible for capturing the live sounds on a set, but there are priorities to consider. Not all sounds are equally important. Here is an overview of: dialogue, perspective, sync sound effects, wild lines, wild sound effects, background tracks, and proper room tone/ambiance.
Welcome to Production Sound
Welcome to Production Sound Recording for Film and TV. Why do you think they nicknamed them, "Talking Pictures"? What is Production Sound?
Hierarchy of Microphone Techniques
Sound mixers have a strategy when it comes to deciding how best to mike an actor. Choose from booming from above, booming from below, a fixed or planted microphone, body worn lavalier, or wireless lavalier.
Why Learn Production Sound?
Filmmaking is a collaborative art. If you want to run solo, just be a writer. But if you want to make a movie, it requires a team of highly qualified experts. We learn Production Sound not only in order to learn how to function in that role, but also to understand the capabilities and limitations of that department on a shoot.
Types of Microphones
Sound mixers throw around a lot of jargon when it comes to microphones. Expressions like: podium & desktop, lavaliers, pressure zone or barrier, performance mics, vocal mics, studio/music, studio/narration, boom mics, ENG mics, and surveillance.
What is Production Sound?
Production Sound is the complex craft of recording live dialogue on the set during principal photography. A blend of the creative and technical, the art of problem solving and compromise in an environment not conducive to recording audio.
Microphone Patterns
Microphones are defined, or categorized, by two factors: their pickup pattern; and how far that reach extends. this presentation explains the basic pickup patterns: omnidirectional, cardioid, hyper-cardioid, and ultra-directional.
The Professional Approach
Good sound does not just happen on its own. It requires a dedicated crew and proper equipment. This presentation discusses the roles of mixer, boom and utility; along with equipment packages and dealing with rental houses.
Classes of Microphones
There are three basic classes of microphones that we regularly encounter in film production: Dynamic, Electret Condenser, and True Condenser. Learn what these terms mean, along with practical tips for selecting the right microphone for the right application.
