What is Post Synchronized Sound in Film?

Sound is used in filmmaking for a variety of purposes. We hear a mix of sounds in the films we enjoy, including dialogue between characters, music, and sound effects. While sounds in filmmaking provide a mix of audible experiences of all types. Many of the sounds that are incorporated into a film are purely for emphasis to create a more realistic, or more dramatic, event. For example, post synchronized sound in film is one such sound that is added into a film. Generally in post-production to emphasize drama and add realistic sounds to the scene. 

What is Post Synchronized Sound in Film?

Post synchronized sound is sound that is added into a film, post-production, after all scenes have been fully assembled. Coming up in post-production, these sounds are primarily used for the emphasis of dramatic elements or actions taking place within the scene.

The use of post-synchronized sound in film helps to create a stronger connection between the audience and the realism of the scene. While emphasizing existing sounds which would already be expected.

Types of Post Synchronized Sound

As you can imagine, there are many different types of post synchronized sound used in filmmaking. Just think about some of the most dramatic scenes you’ve watched in the films you love. Car explosions, fights, natural sounds, and even walla.

The idea here is to emphasize the existing characteristics of the scene that is playing out on the screen. To build up a sense of realism and connection between the audience and what’s happening on the set.

Synchronized vs. Post Synchronized Sound

Don’t get the two confused! 

When you think of post synchronized sound, it is incredibly important not to confuse this with the topic of synchronous sounds and asynchronous sounds as these two can be easily confused.

Asynchronous Sounds

Remember that asynchronous sounds are those which do not directly align with visible elements or actions occurring on the screen.

For example the sound of a siren down the road would be considered asynchronous sound. Because it is coming from an element that is not visible on the screen. 

Opposite of asynchronous sounds are synchronous sounds which are directly related to what you see on the screen. For example, a dog barking front and center on the screen would represent synchronous sound.

However, it is possible for post synchronized sound in film to be either synchronous or asynchronous! That’s right! Post Synchronized sound can in fact be either synchronous or asynchronous in nature.

For Example

When sound effects emphasize a car explosion are added in during post-production. The sound represents a synchronous sound which is also post-synchronized.

Likewise, if while the car is exploding the director wanted to emphasize the surreal calmness occurring just outside the hub of the explosion.

This is done by emphasizing a bird chirping in the background. This sound would also best a post-synchronized sound. But it would be asynchronous since the bird is not visible on the screen and thus has no immediately recognized source. 

So, what is post-synchronized sound in film? It’s sound, added for emphasis, in post-production. Which may include either synchronous or asynchronous sounds depending on the needs of the film.