Sound Mixing and Editing

What is Sound Mixing?

One of the most intrinsic aspects of video production is audio. For a video to be truly successful, the incorporation of clear, cohesive sound is essential. This is an intricate operation, mostly because there are so many options that are available. The most common being that audio is recorded separately with equipment that is meant to pick up what a camera’s internal microphone might miss. This ensures the ability to have options. The dialogue from a different take might be better than another, and can therefore be added to the final sequence of footage. The additional benefit of having audio equipment is being able to record sound effects from the set, which can be modified and properly incorporated in post-production. Sound mixing is the process that takes place during post-production in which the collection of sounds that were obtained during shooting are combined and modified to make a successful video.

What is the Difference between Sound Mixing and Sound Editing?

The process is complex and time consuming, yet there is recommended methodology that ensures a swift editing process. Most editing software provides different channels that allow an editor to separate video from audio, which primarily allows for several layers of audio (or video, for that matter) to be inserted into the final cut. The first step is making sure the video component is finished, and the “picture lock” can be used to disallow any further changes. The editor can then collaborate with the Director & Producer to see what kind of sound, atmosphere, and tone will be needed. Once this is established, the sound components – music, dialogue, SFX – can be added.

What is Sound Editing?

Last October, SVG produced a series of social media videos for a finance company, in which all of the sound was inserted into the footage in the post-production process. The dialogue, Foley, voiceover, sound effects, and music were mixed accordingly, and the most important goal being that it was in sync with the video. Any dialogue that was unclear underwent Automated Dialogue Replacement (ADR), which means that the actors had to rerecord their lines so that the audio became usable. Additionally, audio needed to be leveled to a constant dynamic range, which called for the modification of sound effects and Foley so that their varying levels were changed accordingly. For example, the sound of footsteps should be much lower than the sound of a telephone ringing, or the sound of someone clapping.

When it comes to sound mixing, organization is key. This is why it is important to consider a professional video crew who has the resources to make a video as effective as possible. A video’s audio is just as important as its visuals, and whether the video is for a social media campaign, advertisement, or corporate video, hiring an editor who understands the process is a solid choice for any video marketing strategy.

Skillman Video Group LLC specializes in video production Boston. Call us anytime at 1-800-784-0140.