Week 6
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Here are some tricks and tips from different foley artists, sound effect specialists and Hollywood experts have to make the following sound effects in post: Punches, bug sounds, vomiting, footsteps and zombie noises.
I wanted to share this because these are some sounds that I have wanted to use in the past but resorted to purchasing them, trying to do without it, or recreating the sound with the wrong props. So, with my own experience and relying upon the artists of film, here are 5 common sound effects and how to recreate them.
#5: Insects
Using special microphones to capture the sounds of live insects, as well as using various objects to simulate the movements and sounds of bugs. For example, a foley artist may use crinkling paper or a straw to create the sound of a bug crawling, or use a small brush to create the sound of insect wings flapping.
Electronic sound effects can also be used to enhance or modify the sounds captured in foley, resulting in a convincing and realistic depiction of insect sounds in a film or video. If you have a little fan like those ones you get from a carnival or amusement park, that would work perfect for a fluttering dragon fly noise.
#4: (Believable) Footsteps
Footstep sounds are typically created in foley by using a combination of props and techniques to simulate the sound of footsteps on different surfaces. This can include using shoes or other objects to create the sound of footsteps on hard surfaces such as concrete or wood, or using different materials such as sand or gravel to create the sound of footsteps on soft surfaces such as dirt or grass.
Changing the speed or force of the footfall or adding sound effects such as creaking floorboards or rustling leaves can help alter this sound effect. Creating convincing and effective footstep sounds in post requires attention to detail and a willingness to experiment with different techniques and materials to achieve the desired effect, otherwise, it sounds horrible and you’ll ruin the scene. Also, remember, footsteps don’t have to be so overwhelmingly loud, that’s not how it sounds in real life in most cases. That is, if you’re aiming for a natural effect.
#3: Insects
Using special microphones to capture the sounds of live insects, as well as using various objects to simulate the movements and sounds of bugs. For example, a foley artist may use crinkling paper or a straw to create the sound of a bug crawling, or use a small brush to create the sound of insect wings flapping.
Electronic sound effects can also be used to enhance or modify the sounds captured in foley, resulting in a convincing and realistic depiction of insect sounds in a film or video. If you have a little fan like those ones you get from a carnival or amusement park, that would work perfect for a fluttering dragon fly noise.
#2 Zombie sound FX (or monsters in general)
Use vocalizations and breathing techniques to create guttural moans and groans, as well as using props such as squishy fruits or vegetables to simulate the sound of flesh being torn or bitten. Electronic sound effects and processing can be used to modify and enhance the sounds created in foley, resulting in a more eerie and unsettling effect. Such as turning down the pitch of a groan. In this case I would also layer on different tracks on top of each other and alter the speed and pitches like I mentioned just now.
Overall, the soundtrack of The Last of Us is a masterclass in the power of music to enhance storytelling, making it one of the greatest movie soundtracks of all time and number one on this list.
#1 Realistic punches
Punching sounds are typically created in foley by using a various techniques and interesting props. This can include using a punching bag, leather couch, punching or squishing the inside of oranges or other soft objects to simulate the impact of a punch, as well as creating sound effects with clothing and other materials to add texture and depth to the sound. Foley artist may use their own body to create additional sounds, such as grunts or breathing, to add realism to the scene. If you happen to have a flat 1lb raw steak, this will work perfectly.
Overall, these processes of creating all these sounds in foley requires a combination of creativity, experimentation, and attention to detail to create a convincing and effective sound effect. What’s cool is you can make these sounds with only household items, so… Go… Get recording.
Vivian is 23 years old, currently studying Digital Content Creation. She specializes in Digital Design & enjoys all forms of art.
She dedicates her time to creating her own forms of art and collaborating with other artists and individuals to execute art projects.