LENS vs SOUND
With tighter budgets and consequently limited time, making compromises while keeping the art 'singing' has to be one of the most useful skills required for any producer.
In the wonderful world of film production, we are often faced with decisions that quickly unravel the glamorous ideal of what a successful production is comprised of.
In our quest to keep your production Agile, for this post we chose to answer this thought sent to us by you..
If your first instinct was the prime lenses, and let’s face it, often it’s the picture that gets the most attention when tech and gear is on the line.
So let’s consider the implications. Sure, although a nice set of Panavision Primo V glass seems integral to your vision, we’d have to say not at the expense of an experienced sound recordist on set. This seemingly simple decision will put your production in jeopardy. And in more ways than one.
Here’s a few of the problems we’ve seen that can become major stumbling blocks for small budget projects.
Poor quality location sound
Not having natural textural sound elements for a scene can really impact its efficacy. The time spent searching for passable sound effects is a waste of post production costs when the magic should have been captured on location. Funding a re-shoot is often out of the question, crew fees, talent fees...need we go on?
The need for ADR
Another expensive task, and for it to be effective, it takes specialised skills and many processes for the sound to be 'realistic'. Even then– it could be still noticeable, a good result is not always guaranteed. A little ADR is generally required... we're suggesting that perhaps limiting it as much as possible 🙂
Loss of valuable metadata
A good location recordist will capture valuable metadata which can be captured and used through the post production pathway. Basic information such as scene/slate/take will be recorded along with QC notes and any other comments straight from set. An agile post pathway would link this in with editorial immediately, allowing the editors to then include this information.
Additional post-production
The additional time and effort in sound mixing to “save” the recorded sound and make something "passable" out of it can often ending up in tears and at the worst... an un-watchable film.
Let’s not forget that getting that perfect frame up takes more than just gear, it takes heart! So, don’t worry if you don’t have the fanciest lens, you can still capture a great shot with a bit of passion.
As the legendary Martin Scorsese once said, “Cinema is a matter of what’s in the frame and what’s out”. And let’s face it, giving up those awesome lenses might just take the fun out of filming for some of us. Plus, who knows, maybe the newbie audio guy will surprise us all with some amazing sound!
But hey, let’s not take any unnecessary risks, it’s always best to be prepared with the right gear.
