Need Practice Production For Audio Post? Look no further with Noisy Post

As a passionate post-audio engineer, rerecording mixer, or audio editor, you understand the challenges of finding original audio content to hone your skills. It can be incredibly frustrating trying to locate film projects to practice on, especially when starting out in the industry.

When we talk about original productions, we are not simply referring to downloading a popular movie trailer and completely reworking the sound. That process is more aligned with student projects rather than an original production that can be freely promoted.

It is highly unlikely that you would have access to the unedited dialogue recorded on a film set. We assume that you are currently out in the field, continuing to develop your skills while also seeking original audio post projects to work on.

It’s truly exciting to witness audio engineers and studios making efforts to support the growth and development of aspiring professionals in the field. To my delight, I recently discovered Noisy Post, a studio that offers short film practice audio sessions specifically tailored for individuals getting into the audio post-production field. This platform provides an opportunity for individuals to hone their skills and enhance their craft with real-world production experiences.

This article will guide you through every step of the product review, from downloading to using it in a practical session. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how to make the most out of this product.

For this review, I decided to test the highly recommended Practice Production 151 Package. I made my purchase through the convenient Noisy Post online shop. Once you complete your purchase, expect an email with a user-friendly link that allows you to download the files in Zip format for quick and easy access.

Downloading The Files Assets

Once the Zip folder is successfully extracted, you will have access to the following files and contents:

• 151 AAF AUDIO | This file contains all the raw dialogue and NAT Sounds of the film. The file can be imported to DAW software that supports this function such as Logic Pro and Pro Tools.
• 151 Short Film_Music Stem | This is a stereo wav music stem from the film.
• 151 Watermark (25fps) | 2048 x 858 high quality watermarked video reference.
• Noisy Post 2.0 Template | Stereo Pro Tools template with tracks, sends, auxes, stock plugins, and routing allocated.
• Noisy Post 5.1 & 2.0 Template | 5.1 surround sound and stereo Pro Tools template.

It is important to note that this practice AAF does not include any sound design or foley. You get the original dialogue and NAT Sound recordings to build upon your production.

Loading the AAF File and Video into Pro Tools

The AAF file was effortlessly loaded into the Pro Tools session using the Session Data Import function, just like I always do. To my delight, there were no issues whatsoever. Importing this AAF truly captures the essence of what an audio post engineer would typically experience when setting up a session for the film.

The audio tracks provided are intentionally not finalized or polished, which is what you would expect for a practice session. By having these imperfections present, you have the opportunity as an audio engineer to showcase your skills in editing and processing. The dialogue and tracks were recorded professionally in both standard and quality. Honestly, better quality than I get from most indie film productions.

To ensure a smooth session, it is essential to complete some routine preparations. This includes importing the AAF tracks into their respective audio track if you are utilizing the template. Additionally, you’ll need to synchronize the video and audio within the timeline for seamless playback. These necessary steps will help create an efficient and well-organized session for optimal results.

What is provided in the AAF?

You are provided with all the dialogue separated by character and grouped. You get the following:

Dialogue Tracks

• Main mixed dialogue
• Lavalier mic track
• Boom mic track

NAT Sound

• Recorded movements
• Natural ambiance
• Onset Room Tone

In addition to the dialogue, you are provided with the NAT Sound (natural sounds) of the film, including backgrounds and ambiance.

This practice production does not include any sound design or foley tracks and is focused primarily on dialogue editing and cleanup. Of course, you can add your own sound design, foley, and ambiance to complete the film just as the final released production.

How to import an AAF or OMF into Pro Tools and relink your audio

Are you having troubles relinking audio files after importing an AFF or OMF into ProTools? This tutorial video shows you how to do it correctly.

What would be a good addition to this package?

One small addition I think would be good for this package is adding a timecode counter printed to the reference video. You have to sync the video to the AAF tracks which is technically a big issue, but it would help to ensure that the video is exactly synced to the correct frame.

Additionally, it would be great if the music from the film could be purchased separately, with royalty-free rights, so that the audio engineer can finalize a version for showcasing the finished film in their demo. (Update: As of September 14, 2023, the music stem has been added to the package. If you purchased the 151 Practice Production Package before September 14, you can download it again from your account on noisypost.com.au.)

Conclusion and Thoughts

This practice session is a great opportunity to dip your toes into the world of audio post-production. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also offers quality content that will enhance your skills in this field. Definitely give it a try.

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Watch the final production of this short film.

Note, the music and sound design files are not included in the practice session.