DIRECTORS
Collaborate frequently with your sound mixer as you would an editor, composer,
DP or writer. We can also enrich your "vision" through sound images.
Find out what problems and solutions exist. Don't fall for the trap where you
hate to see your mixer coming because you know it's just bad news. Your mixer
will feel that vibe and start telling you less and less until sound is no longer
a vital part of collaboration on your film.
A good rapport with your mixer will allow you to know information about what
was borderline and what you can barely get away with. If you simply trust that
the mixer is getting good sound, you may be mistaken. It is always possible
that the mixer has given up fighting the good sound battle and succumbed to
the lack of any positive response to their efforts.
Many sound problems cannot even be heard until the last moment after the other
departments have done their work and the set is finally quiet for a rehearsal.
Just as for the camera, the shot sometimes evolves into a problem that was unanticipated.
Also, we may need a moment or two to make adjustments when creative changes
have been made on the spot.
Sound is a part of your entire film making process from pre-production through
post production. It needs to be done right the first time. If you convey this
message to your troops ahead of time, you will be freed up to spend more quality
time with other pressing areas of film making.
Remember that the priorities of UPM and ADs compel them to focus their attention
on the production budget. They are not always as concerned about the other costs
of a film through post production.
The difference between good sound and bad sound on many shows is only about
5 minutes a day of doing some added tweaking here, another mic planted, a wireless
changed there, quieting footsteps, siliconing a door squeak, room tone, a well
placed blanket, killing a machine that came on during a take, powder on a dolly
wheel etc. Usually by the time you print a take, the problems have been solved.
If not, do another take to be safe.
ADs or other crafts who stifle this process will cost you dearly later in post.
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