Video Editing · Advanced level

Advanced level · Module 3: Sound Design and Mixing · Lesson 1 of 4

Sound Design

Build layers of sound that make scenes believable.

In this lesson you will

  • Layer ambience, effects and foley
  • Use sound to direct attention

Key concepts

ambiencesound effectsfoleylayering

The lesson

Sound design builds the world: ambience (the background of a place), effects and foley (recreated everyday sounds such as footsteps).

Layer sounds subtly; viewers notice missing sound more than present sound.

Use sound to direct attention — a sound can draw the eye to something in frame.

Step by step

  1. List sounds needed per scene.
  2. Add ambience beds.
  3. Add effects and foley.
  4. Balance layers.

Practice activity

Design the hero video's sound.

Expected result: Believable, layered sound.

Check your understanding

  1. What is foley?

    Show answer

    Recreated everyday sounds such as footsteps.

  2. What is ambience?

    Show answer

    The background sound of a place.

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