This weeks classes focussed on the idea of sound when filming a scene. We had been introduced to microphones 2 weeks prior, but todays class involved the recording of sound and the processing of sound levels through a mixer.

Due to being away one of the lessons, my experience with sound recording and using a sound mixer is less profound. However, it was great being shown how to use one properly by my fellow classmates.

We initially struggled when connecting the cords from the mixer into the microphone – nobody could work out which cord was used with the right channels. After trial and error, it was discovered and Siobhan made me wear the headphones whilst I spoke into the mic and taught me how to read the mixer.

She taught me how to ‘tune’ and ‘fine tune’ the sound levels by using a large and a small knob on the side of the mixer.

I enjoyed learning the practical side of recording sound professionally due to my interest in sound and sound design – in particular, foley sounds. I feel as though sound and sound production gets less recognition in cinema than the directors and cinematographers.

This weeks class was quite brief and Robin encouraged us to do more writing about the unit. I felt a bit guilty at this, as I have been quite slack with my blog posts due to moving homes. However, I am aiming to do more over the coming weeks.

After doing the second scene analysis, I understood what Robin meant about enjoying the unit more if we write about it; as I feel I was able to understand more effectively if the information was reiterated if I transcribed thought into writing.

I’m hoping my analysis is closer to what is being asked of us as I was not confident with my last assessment.