266 The Digital Filmmaking Handbook, 4E

Titles

Most film projects need three types of titles: the opening title sequence, the credit roll at the end, and possibly subtitles. Most editing applications can create simple titles, subtitles, and credit rolls (Figure 12.12). An opening credit sequence is another story. Complicated title sequences such as the one in The Matrix are really more like short animated films and will probably require using a dedicated 2D animation application such as Adobe After Effects.

Figure 12.12

Creating titles in Adobe Premiere Pro.

Audio Tools

Audio editing can often make or break a film. Good audio can enhance atmosphere, create drama, and provide a reason for what would otherwise seem like a bad edit. Editing software can tend to skimp on audio features, so if you’re serious about sound editing, we recommend using a dedicated sound editing application, such as Avid ProTools. We’ll talk about sound editing applications in Chapter 15, “Sound Editing.” That said, you’ll still need some decent sound editing tools before the film is handed off to the sound editor.

The following are some things to look for that will help you create better sound tracks in your non-linear editing application.

Equalization

Good equalization features (or EQ) let you do everything from removing the hiss from a bad tape recording to adding presence to someone with a weak voice.

Audio Effects and Filters

Just like video effects, audio effects and filters let you change the nature of the sound in a clip. And, just like video effects, many programs support audio plug-ins for adding everything from echo, reverb, delay, and pitch-shifting, to specialized effects that make a voice sound like it’s coming through a telephone. When selecting editing software, you should assess the audio filters that are included and determine if the package supports audio plug-ins. See Chapter 15 for more on audio editing.

Audio Plug-In Formats

Although there are a number of audio plug-in formats, including TDM, SoundDesigner, AudioSuite, Apple’s Audio Units, and Premiere, it’s best to look for an editing package that is compatible with the plug-ins that you or your sound editor will use to edit the audio.

Mixing

No editing system is complete without the ability to set the audio levels on each individual piece of sound in your sequence, a process called mixing. Look for software that has a mixing interface with gain sliders and dB (decibel) markings. Some editing packages offer real-time mixing, which allows you to adjust audio levels while your sequence plays. This can be a timesaving way to get a rough mix that you can fine-tune later (see Figure 12.13).

Figure 12.13

Audio EQ and mixing interface in Avid Media Composer.