Sound in Training Videos

Sound matters in any video, not just training. And the good news is that you can do a lot on your own with only a small amount of kit.

The objectives of the soundtrack in training video production

> So the audience can hear the learning points they need to hear

> To enliven dull sections of the training programme

> To make scenes feel live, as if you were there, involved in the actual training

> To mix with music and voiceover, forming a realistic panorama of sound.

When recording sound on set

> Use a boom mike for recording groups of people, or more than one person.

> Use a tie mike for vox pops and talking heads, wireless or hard wired.

> The Camera Operator should always do a sound check for levels.

> The Video Director should wear the headphones, leaving the Camera Operator free to focus on the visuals.

> Be prepared to use noise reduction software later, as many training video locations have unavoidable background noise. Today’s noise reduction software is easy to use, cheap, and is very effective at cleaning up bad sound.

> Always record wild sound from the camera mic as a backup. The editor may also later wish to add a little wild sound, adding an ambient level of background noise that reduces any feeling of lifelessness.

> Always ensure silence on the video set during recording. Don’t tolerate chatting. ”Silence on set, please”

For recording training drama, or where there is more than one person speaking at the same time, you’ll need to employ a sound recordist, who will use a belt audio mixer to set levels for a variety of mikes.

Besides obvious sound skills, look for a sound recordist who is relatively unobtrusive and quiet. Chatty sound recordists can offer one creative idea too many, when it isn’t necessary. When the sound recordist starts to chatter, then “everyone starts to become a director” which can get chaotic, waste time, as well as upset some people.

Expect to pay £120-£150 per day or more for a professional sound recordist to come out to an industrial training video location.

> 8 Top Tips for the Aspiring Training Video Producer/Director