Profession sound editor

Sound editors create the soundtrack and sound effects for motion pictures, television series or other multimedia productions. They are responsible for all the music and sound featured in the movie, series or videogames. Sound editors use equipment to edit and mix image and sound recordings and make sure that the music, sound and dialogue is synchronised with and fits in the scene. They work closely together with the video and motion picture editor.

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Personality Type

Knowledge

  • Personal directing styles

    Understand and analyse the behaviour of specific directors.

  • Copyright legislation

    Legislation describing the protection of the rights of original authors over their work, and how others can use it.

  • Musical genres

    Different musical styles and genres such as blues, jazz, reggae, rock, or indie.

  • Audio editing software

    The various software for editing and generating audio, such as Adobe Audition, Soundforge, and Power Sound Editor.

  • Film music techniques

    Understand how film music can create desired effects or moods.

  • Musical theory

    The body of interrelated concepts that constitutes the theoretical background of music.

Skills

  • Edit recorded sound

    Edit audio footage using a variety of sofware, tools, and techniques such as crossfading, speed effects, and removing unwanted noises.

  • Follow work schedule

    Manage the sequence of activities in order to deliver completed work on agreed deadlines by following a work schedule.

  • Coordinate music with scenes

    Coordinate the selection of music and sounds so they match the mood of the scene.

  • Search databases

    Search for information or people using databases.

  • Structure soundtrack

    Structure the music and sound of a film to make sure that all components work together.

  • Analyse a script

    Break down a script by analysing the dramaturgy, form, themes and structure of a script. Conduct relevant research if necessary.

  • Consult with production director

    Consult with the director, producer and clients throughout the production and post-production process.

  • Finish project within budget

    Make sure to stay within budget. Adapt work and materials to budget.

  • Attend music recording sessions

    Attend recording sessions in order to make changes or adaptations to the musical score.

  • Follow directions of the artistic director

    Follow the instructions of the director while understanding his creative vision.

  • Synchronise sound with images

    Synchronise recorded sound with footage.

Optional knowledge and skills

purchase music collaborate with music librarians work with composers organise compositions musical instruments draw up artistic production transpose music synchronise with mouth movements file-based workflow musical notation draft music cue breakdown rewrite musical scores archive documentation related to the work transcribe ideas into musical notation engage composers film production process

Source: Sisyphus ODB