How to Become a Movie Sound Designer

If you're a sound enthusiast then working in film may be the opportunity you're looking for. Sound designers handle all aspects of a film's sound concept, meaning those special effects that everyone loves so much. They decide where, when and how those booms are going to occur as well as covering other aspects of a film's sound. If this sounds like something you might want to pursue, keep reading.

Instructions

1. Learn all you can about the field, the techniques and the responsibilities by reading books and visiting websites.

2. Enroll in a university that has a strong film program and if possible a strong program that focuses on sound design.

3. Work on as many student film projects as possible by offering to be the sound designer for their productions. Student productions are a great way to learn and many are in need of someone who has a serious interest in sound.

4. Minor in theater and work on the sound for the productions the school puts on. While theater sound design and film sound design are not exactly the same, they do share similar skill sets and equipment.

5. Secure an internship with a film company or an actual film. The best way to learn sound design is by doing it. This hands-on experience for an actual company or film will be invaluable to you as you look for your first job.

6. Network. Make as many connections as you can, intern as often as you can, find a mentor and go to workshops because the networking is what will eventually lead to your first real job as a sound designer.