Sound Design for - Web / Film / Games

Sound designers produce, record and mix sound for live and recorded film/TV productions and websites/computer games using microphones, recording equipment and editing software.

They can specialise in post-production, putting together the final soundtrack.

Post-production work can include a re-recording (dubbing) mixer and dialogue editor/mixer.

Duties may include: deciding how equipment should be set-up to suit the acoustics ; selecting, positioning and adjusting microphones; monitoring sound quality; recording onto digital audio tape; servicing and repairing equipment; and playing music or sound effects into a live programme.

Post-production sound work can involve: giving instructions to post-production teams; mixing and balancing speech, effects and background music; and creating extra sound effects and adding them into the soundtrack ('foley').

Starting salaries can work out at £18,000 to £25,000 a year for ongoing full-time work (although it is common to work for less at the start of your career).

Experienced freelance rates can be between £800 and £1600 a week (before tax).

Freelance rates can vary widely. You could negotiate fees based on the type of production and your own track record.

Contact BECTU for current pay guidelines.

You will need a good knowledge of sound technology and equipment, and you will find it useful to understand basic electronics and the physics of sound.

You may increase your chances of getting into the industry by taking a relevant course to develop your knowledge and skills before you look for work.

Courses include: City & Guilds 7503 Certificate/Diploma in Sound and Music Technology; BTEC National Certificate/Diploma in Media Production (Sound Recording) or Music Technology; BTEC HNC/HND in Media (Audio); foundation degrees or degrees in sound engineering, music technology, media technology or technical theatre.

Check with colleges or universities for entry requirements.

When looking for your first job, you will find it useful to have practical experience of using sound equipment.

Taking a relevant course can help with this, and you can also build experience in the following ways: working on student or community film or radio projects; setting up ('rigging') sound equipment for amateur theatre or local bands working for a sound equipment manufacturer or hire company; assisting in a recording or editing studio.