The Role of Foley Sound Effects

By November 20, 2018Uncategorized

Film production requires continued innovation and advancement to meet the daily expectations of the audience. It needs artists and filmmakers to tap into their imaginative minds and produce content that the audience appreciates. Foley sound effects are one of these creations that named after Jack Foley, the artist who first started the practice of recording certain sounds that appear in a video or film away from the actual set.

Foley artists generate a lot of the sound you hear daily in movies, TV shows, and commercials. What is interesting about the sound that these artists create is that they are produced from a combination of objects you would not expect. What they do is play a specific clip on a projected monitor and reproduce unique sounds any way possible. Now, film production companies may not have Foley artists on hand but they do understand the significance of their contributions.

A film that lacks quality sound really makes the entire viewing experience entirely different; the proper sound is needed, especially in bigger film productions. Compared to prerecorded sound effects on a computer, Foley sound effects create more authenticity, variety and enhance the overall production. Enhancing the sounds in a movie improves the realism of the movie, which in turn draws the audience in.

Some commonly used Foley effects that you might hear in any given film production include wood cracking in a fire, the wind blowing through sails, body hits (breaking bones, etc.), and horses trotting. These effects are achieved using creative prop ideas like plungers, wallets, duct tape, bags of baking soda, sand, springs, and much, much more.

When these sounds are used in the background of a scene, they simulate real noise in such a way that viewers can connect on an emotional level. Compared to current films, old historical movies appear and feel lifeless because they were screened without sound or poor sound quality. In today’s world, the work of Foley artists is critical as they are used in just about any scene; whether it be dramatic, comedic or action-packed, sound effects created by Foley artists are used in just about any video scenario.

Sound effects are essential for production companies because they empower artists to record unique and realistic sounds for films. Although the typical viewer may not understand the significance of a Foley artist’s role, they notice and appreciate the indefinable realism and professionalism in the film which sets it apart from others.

Whether you want a professional Foley artist or not, our production company can create just about any video you need for your business. If you have any inquiries, feel free to contact us.