Spot picture cues, prepare props and surfaces, record synchronized performances and deliver labeled takes with usable handles and source notes.
Confirm the picture version, frame rate and timecode basis with the editor. Mark footsteps, clothing and prop actions by cue ID, scene and synchronization point. Decide which sounds need separate close and room perspectives and note intentional overlaps with production sound.
Choose props that create the required sound while handling them safely. Isolate stage or floor noise and test the microphone at candidate positions. Match playback level when comparing captures; recorded distance and measured band balance describe the actual setup rather than predicting a universal bass boost.
Perform the cue while watching the correct picture version, checking the action’s start, weight and pace. Confirm that recording and playback use compatible timing settings. Establish a slate and take naming convention so successful performances can be found without auditioning every file.
Capture complete attacks and natural tails, including alternate intensity or surface versions needed by the editor. Monitor for clipping, clothing noise or unrelated stage movement and measure actual recorded peak margin. Retain isolated takes rather than printing unnecessary effects that prevent later adjustment.
Select performances by sync and narrative fit, clean edit boundaries and compare with surrounding production sound. Check that perspective, distance and dynamics feel consistent with the scene. Record where a take requires a timing adjustment or cannot meet the cue rather than hiding the problem in a generic quality grade.
Export files or sessions using the receiving editor’s format and alignment requirements. Reopen the handoff, confirm cue IDs, start positions, handles and all promised variations, and include the picture version and notes. Keep raw performances, cue sheet and approved edits together.
Write and download the task brief, measured results and handoff decisions as Markdown.
Compare measured low-band levels at two mic positions after normalizing to the same reference band.
Compare the measured sample or true peak with an explicit ceiling; keep crest factor separate.
Estimate byte-aligned PCM payload and entered overhead for the planned recording inventory.
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Recording placement and directional response affect the balance of direct sound and room contribution. Use the cue’s intended perspective to judge the real capture.
Keep the following evidence with the actual version used for this task.
| Record | Include | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Picture | Version, frame rate, timecode and action | Verify sync against the same reference |
| Take | Cue ID, prop, surface, perspective and variation | Link selected edit to raw performance |
| Handoff | Start, handles, format and notes | Reopen in the receiving workflow |
Convincing timing and physical weight often matter more than elaborate effects.
Prematurely trimming decays removes options for matching the receiving scene.