Importance of Sound Effects

What makes a good film? A good story, yes. Good acting, yes. Good sound, again yes. But what about sound effects? Something that we don’t really think much about at first, but the subtlety of it can make or break a moment on screen. A video’s sound is just as important as its picture. The use of sound effects in any type of video, whether it be instructional or fictional, reinforces the story by enhancing its realism or adding comedic effect.

Horror movies emphasize sound to draw attention. When the audience is attached to the sound, they lean forward and listen more intently. Sudden changes in the score make them jump back and up the scare factor. The sound mixer for I Am Legend, a zombie horror flick, overused sound effects to the point that everything had a definite sound transcending the screen. Clicking on an iPod, rolling up a car window, and tearing down curtains all have distinguished sounds that keep the audience engaged in Will Smith’s everyday actions. By the time the character approaches an intensifying scene, the audience is already so drawn into the sound that its onset scares them. The reality of the film is reinforced with sound by giving the audience the feeling that they are right next to the character, hearing what he hears.

For comedic purposes, sound effects are used to highlight moments on screen which cue the audience to laugh. A good example of this is on the reality TV show Girls Next Door. Kendra, the sporty one, is not as dumb as she sounds, but her sound effects do not do much to disprove it. When she jumbles her words or misuses a phrase, a cartoon “boing” or screeching tires sound effects underscore her mistake. It translates as a cue for the audience to laugh and reflect on what they just heard, aiding the comedic value of the show. Comedies, like horror films, make the most of their sound via underscores and highlights. In this example, the use of sound effects create a more entertaining show for the viewer.

So, how do you use them in a MindBite? Several ways. First, watch Greg Reeses’ intro:

Do you hear the leak in the beginning of the preview? The author added it to underlie the video’s content on how to replace leaky kitchen faucets. The faucet was not leaking, but the sound effect reinforced that this video was going to demonstrate what to do if it was.Watch another example:

Sparky becomes a bigger part of the video’s reality by barking. But Sparky never barked at all during the filming! The bark is an added sound effect intentionally used by the editor to increase Sparky’s presence and add comedic effect.

The importance of sound effects should not be underrated. Even the Academy Awards recognizes it with two awards, Best Sound Effects Editing and Best Sound Effects. Bring a video to life using rich sound effects. Rather than overlooking sound, handle it with the attention and care your video deserves.

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1 Comments

1. Gary's sound effects, October 19, 2008:

   I love soundeffects, and most people really underestimate the importance of good sound effects. You’re so right! I love to digg through sound effects websites to listen to atmospheres and discover new sounds.