A: We’ve sound designed and/or mixed well over 150 documentaries of all subject matter. Additionally, Matthew is the head post audio engineer for all of TED Conferences. We are very well versed in the ins and outs of post audio for documentary filmmaking.
As for specifics, documentaries, usually more than other types of filmmaking, have to wrestle with less-than-ideal filming conditions and/or combine disparate footage into what will hopefully feel like a connected and cohesive film. To that end, we have tons of experience resurrecting and repairing otherwise disappointing location audio, and integrating it into a finished, professional mix. This could be form archival material, a day that you primary mic cut out, or when you had no choice but to film a key interview next to a busy train station. We have the tools and experience to get everything right.
Another great documentary example comes from our story-first approach to sound design. A documentary gets the same thoughtful treatment as a narrative film, in trying to determine how audio best provides clarity and impact to the film. The execution of this, and knowing how to sculpt a documentary vs another type of genre is something we do exceedingly well. It’s critical to balance the goals of the film, the reality of the shooting location and the filmmaker’s ideals of cinematic presentation.
