Foley is the process of reproducing en recording realistic sound effects by using physical props to enhance audio quality for film and other types of media.
Let’s have a look at what you’ll need to set up your own Foley studio.
Microphones
First things first. If you want to record professional Foley, your most important assets will be quality microphones. You’ll need different ones for outdoor and indoor sounds.
Outdoor Sound effects
For outdoor sfx you’ll either need a large-diaphragm condenser microphone or a shotgun microphone.
Indoor sound effects
When it comes to interior effects you’ll need to acquire an ultra senstivie hyper-cardiod condenser mic. A few examples of these are:
- Neumann KM185
- Oktava mk-012
- Audix SCX1/HC
Room and Sound Stage
A larger room is always better than a normal sized room, but either way some enhancements will have to be made to get the correct sonic depth, height and width for your Foley sound effects. These include techniques like sound absorption and sound diffusion to nullify room boundaries.
Foley Objects
After compiling a list of all the sounds needed for your film, you’ll need to pair those sounds with the best objects to recreate them. Here are some examples of tried and tested Foley objects and actions:
- A bird’s wings: Flap rubber gloves
- Grass footsteps: Step on balled up audiotape
- A horse’s hooves: Knock two halves of a coconut together
- Bone Breaks: Snap celery in half
- Gun noises: Staple guns
- Creaking floorboards: Old office chairs
- Whoosing sounds: Swipe thin rods and sticks through the air
