Sound Design

Definition

Sound Design is the creative and technical process of creating the entire sonic world of a film or video production. The Sound Designer is responsible for all the non-dialogue audio elements of the film, including sound effects (both recorded and synthesized), ambient soundscapes, and the overall sonic aesthetic of the project. Great sound design is often invisible to the audience, seamlessly enhancing the emotional and narrative impact of the visuals.

Contextual Usage

The director briefs the Sound Designer: "I want the sound design for this film to feel very grounded and realistic — no Hollywood-style exaggerated effects. Every sound should feel like it could exist in the real world. The exception is the alien spacecraft, where I want something completely otherworldly and unsettling."