WORKSHOPs in creating sonic geographies
You've got almost all the elements of an audio feature (or a video production) in place - compelling guest interviews, inviting and incisive narration. But it all somehow seems a little flat - with no strong sense of place. What does it mean to listen to a location? How can you best record it?
I offer workshops on immersive field recording for audio documentary makers, filmmakers, podcasters and others working with narrative sound. Helping participants explore ways to create a vivid sense of place without relying on obvious sound cliches, or adding music. You’ll learn how to collect and use location sound that puts a listener inside a forest, beside a lake, in a busy street market, or move them through a crowded city. Using sound to help support and structure a story with a very real sense of place.
Workshop elements include…
- Collecting field sound that puts the listener IN the space, whether that’s in a vibrantly alive forest, beside a calm lake, in the middle of a crowded street market, or… walking through a bustling city
- Moving with your mics … so much field recording involves either standing quietly while recording with a mic on a stand or holding a pistol grip, or perhaps leaving a ‘drop rig’ for a few hours/overnight and walking away. But to put a listener truly IN the space themselves, learning how to record while moving with your mics can give a true sense of immersion. I’ll also discuss the ‘moving to zoom’ technique.
- Binaural stereo can be a perfect way to record while moving - but it requires skill. I’ll teach you how to ‘wear’ your mics and what to pay attention to while doing that (including calming breath techniques … and what to wear).
- When recording in busy locations it’s not recommended to use standard techniques with visible recording gear. I’ll teach you how to be an audio ninja, moving inconspicuously through spaces, recording without people knowing, so that you can capture completely real, candid soundscapes.
- Coping with weather: I’ll go over essential gear to help you, including proper windshielding… and how to record in heavy rain (HINT … this does not include using an umbrella).
- Weaving sonic elements together – how to deploy your lovely field sound, pick out essential elements, create sonic motifs and convincing ambient ‘beds’ to help structure your audio production.
Other topics I might touch on include: ‘Accessing all areas’ (getting into seemingly restricted spaces); the best times of day for wildlife and urban sounds; how to be almost invisible while recording; scoping out recording locations ahead of time; getting around fast in big cities, issues with privacy and copyright on the streets; book recommendations.
Personal One-on-One Coaching (Remote)
At the Kelso Dunes - getting ready to record the sound of ‘singing sands’ … using both a traditional stereo capsule mic and a hydrophone.
LOCATION TECHNIQUES
Field recording requires very different skills - from navigating a simple indoor guest interview or ‘tape sync’ to being out in nature or in the middle of an urban jungle. I can help you learn how to get right into the sound field and capture realistic, immersive audio for your podcast.
The Rode NT4 stereo mic is typically used in studios to record music. Here I’ve got it mounted inside Rycote windshielding to record glorious stereo sound on location at Kane Ranch on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT GEAR
Pro windshielding, shock mounts, pistol grips, etc etc - it can all be a bit daunting when you’re getting started. I can help you navigate the vast array of available gear and help you put together an affordable and useful kit.
Wired to record incognito in Shanghai. Capturing candid, immersive sound in crowded urban environments can be a unique challenge. Learn how to be an ‘audio ninja’ and obtain compelling audio from the center of the action - without standing out in the crowd.
NAVIGATING WITH YOUR EARS
Getting great location sound isn’t just about having the right gear. Its about developing a more nuanced awareness of the world of sound around you, learning how to position yourself, maximise the acoustics of urban and natural spaces, and knowing when/how to move with your mics. With my coaching you’ll go out on a field recording project to hone your skills, and benefit from my expert tips and guidance.
Personal Coaching Costs: US$1200/GBP£900 - Includes one 1.5 hour introductory session, then 4 x 1 hour follow up personal coaching sessions - including a practical field recording assignment and Q&A follow-ups.
Testimonials
“I can't thank you enough for the coaching! It's been a brilliant experience.” Rosie Oliver, Tickertape Productions
“Diane took the time to understand and tailor her instruction to my needs. In addition to technical skills, Diane helped boost my confidence as an aspiring producer in a competitive industry.” Clarissa Marks, LA-based Audio Producer
“Working with Diane reinvigorated my passion for audio … I got to practice new skills in a hands-on way. The gems she shared about immersive field recording & mixing will forever stay with me.” Stefanie Ritoper, Producer and Multimedia Journalist