Can you walk us through your creative process when starting a new sound design project?

As a starting point on every project and most importantly, we need to be on the same page with the client. Knowing exactly what their vision for the project is is key to an optimal result. That said and not very often you'll find yourself on the challenging situation where the client is not 100% sure where they want to go with the film or even how can the sound world help the storytelling. Your experience is vital here! Technical and creative skills are obviously essential, but it's the human side of things that will make a difference. The way you engage and communicate with the client will determine the right understanding of the overall vision for the project and above all it'll create a bond of trust between you and the client which will then allow you to explore all the potential of your work.

My work always centres around clients' references to work they like. To achieve the sound that my client is after - as audio is often subjective - I will ask for several examples and an explanation of the context and objective of the project. Usually, three examples create a triangle of styles and sounds - if I fit my process within that triangle, it's a winning formula! 

Sound design requires the right mindset - it can't be rushed - and taking the time to listen to references before starting so the textures are fresh in my ears is crucial. 

Then, it's a case of creativity and experimentation. The longer I can spend on a project, the more space I can give to it, the better it becomes. It's a proactive, engaged process, and the best advice to give is to immerse yourself in the world of the project you are working on, and that's how you find a coherent theme and style of sound.

Each creative process is totally different since it varies according to the style and what is required and sometimes it depends on which part of the process I am involved in, but normally I try to generate several listening sessions from the perspective of the consumer of the project and from a production perspective within the project and from my personal perspective I am very critical of the project in order to maximize it to the point that these criticisms become a challenge to improve the project. I share all the feedback and I always try to give the client better tools to be able to maximize beyond what is required to do.

First thing: I begin by understanding the project’s objectives and vision. This involves discussing the intended mood, style, and any specific requirements with the client or team. I also research references and gather inspiration to align my approach with the project’s needs.

Next, I plan the sound design elements I’ll need. This includes deciding on the types of sounds, textures, and effects required. I gather or record raw audio materials, and if necessary, I create custom samples or use sound libraries to build a foundation. In general, I'm getting a feeling for the direction and experimenting with different approaches to take.

This might involve synthesizing new sounds, manipulating recorded samples, or applying various effects and working towards filling out all the blanks the visual might lack sonically. 

Lastly, I refine by adjusting what's needed and mixing & mastering everything ensuring everything sounds great on all platforms and formats.