Audio & video are inseparable

Dialogue is the single most important element of sound in any video — it’s what gets your message directly to the viewer. Capturing great sound on set is a full-time job: the sound recordist constantly monitors audio to keep it free of unwanted noise like clothing rustle or overhead planes, and makes sure microphones are well placed — hidden from view but close enough for a natural-sounding recording.

The main focus on set is always dialogue. Other sounds in the environment — passing cars, footsteps, opening doors — can be added afterwards in post production.

A great voiceover not only gives information to the viewer, but also conveys a sense of your brand and its emotion. You might want the viewer to feel reassured they’ll be in safe hands, or that they’re hearing about a new product from a trusted friend. The delivery of the script frames how the viewer thinks about what they’re told.

At Casual Films, we get the most out of our voiceovers by directing sessions as a team with our clients, keeping the message on brand.

Sourcing the right artist for your video can be tricky, but between our extensive industry experience and wide-ranging network of talent, we can help your brand find its voice. We offer options and direction you may not have considered, to make your video more engaging and stand out from the crowd.

The sound mix is where your video comes to life and becomes a polished product. We take the dialogue recorded on set and clean it up — correcting an echoey room or removing background noise — apply EQ for a more natural, intelligible sound, and smoothly duck music under dialogue so the two aren’t fighting for attention.

We also add sound design: whooshes to lend weight to movement, rising tones to build tension, and effects for on-screen actions that weren’t recorded on set. Footsteps and background atmospheres — the hubbub of a cafe, gentle birdsong — heighten authenticity. For animation, sound design can be more playful or futuristic, complementing the visuals and bringing them to life.

The best way to evoke an emotional response is to frame your message with music — a prime example of audio and video production working together. Whether you need something high-energy and fun to grab attention or a more contemplative tone, music is the best tool for the job.

We search a wide variety of premium production music libraries to find the right track. But sometimes you need something bespoke — so we can also compose a custom track in house, tightly synchronising music and visuals to emphasise key moments for a final product that’s more engaging and effective.