Thursday 3 November 2016

Types of Sound Within Film


Sound is one of the four key elements within film that can be broken down into several sections. The easiest way to categorises types of sound is either as diegetic or non diegetic.


Diegetic sound: is sound that comes from a source within the frame that both the character and audience can hear. Examples of diegetic sound are dialogue, sounds from objects like a glass breaking, animals singing or groaning or music from a radio, TV or headphones.


Non diegetic sound: is sound that comes from a source outside of the film. It is usually used to create an atmosphere or bestow fear on the audience like an intense soundtrack in a horror film.





Contrapuntal sound: is used to create an uncomfortable and distressing atmosphere. A clear example of this is in Resevouir Doggs. The music seems to be far too upbeat and happy for a scene such as this. This juxtaposition between the sound and the narrative allow for a whole new meaning to be created.


Sound bridge: can also be classed as a type of editing. It's when the sound from one scene or shot carries on over another scene or shot.