I was watching BBC breakfast TV, a rare event, but I was staying with my daughter and eating some cereal while sitting on her sofa. The item was about the price of fuel, showing the rise in cost of both petrol and diesel. As with all modern news, the item included snazzy graphics showing fuel pumps and price changes with text. The text showed that petrol had risen “NEALRY 18p a litre.” Someone didn’t check. I posted the image to a Facebook group I’m in and one person pointed out that the diesel pump had a green handle, now there’s attention to detail.
Those kinds of mistakes are the stuff of social media memes, someone’s boss gets red faced and someone gets a bollocking. It’s small, no one got killed. However, few will forget the TV images broadcast on January 28, 1986, when 73 seconds into flight, the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded on live TV. It killed all on board and was indelibly etched in our minds. An investigation revealed the reason was some small ‘O rings’ used to seal the fuel tanks. On this occasion attention to detail meant catastrophic loss of life. What this proves is that something is only as good as the weakest link in the chain.
The job of audio professionals is not life and death, we’re not flying planes or operating on people. However, the fact remains, unless we take seriously the need for attention to detail, we are just as likely to kill our reputation and possibly our career. In audio production, attention to detail goes beyond technical precision; it’s about adopting a meticulous mindset that impacts the entire creative process. This article explores why a detail-oriented attitude is essential in audio production, affecting everything from the initial planning stages to the listener’s final experience.
The Philosophy of a Detail-Oriented Attitude
“Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.” - Vincent Van Gogh
Over the last few years, partly because of a very demanding client, rather than find myself exasperated, I’ve learnt the value of detail-oriented work. Something that many creatives aren’t good at. We often excuse ourselves with thinking that details are the enemy of creativity. I’ve come to understand that in many cases they are in fact bedfellows.
In audio production, the mindset of paying attention to detail is what sets apart great engineers and producers from the merely good. It’s not just about knowing the latest techniques or having the best equipment; it’s about a fundamental commitment to excellence. Legendary producer George Martin, often referred to as the "Fifth Beatle," was known for his meticulous approach to production. His dedication to getting every element of a track just right played a significant role in the success of The Beatles. This philosophy of thoroughness and precision is what defines a truly professional engineer or producer.
This meticulous attitude involves a relentless pursuit of perfection. It’s about being willing to spend hours adjusting a single sound until it fits perfectly within a movie mix or meticulously editing vocal takes to achieve the best possible performance. This level of dedication might seem excessive, even obsessive, to some, but for those who understand the impact of these small details, it’s simply part of the job.
Impact On The Production Process
Attention to detail begins long before the first note is recorded. Pre-production planning is a crucial phase where meticulous organisation can prevent countless issues later on. In a recent discussion with Steve Genewick, who spent many years alongside Al Schmitt, he told me that as soon as they knew an artist was coming in to record they would start to plan the sessions. That’s even before they got into the building.
Setting clear goals, understanding the artist’s vision, and planning each session in detail can save significant time and resources during recording and mixing. A well-thought-out plan ensures that every aspect of the production aligns with the intended outcome, leaving less room for error and more space for creativity.
During the recording process, a detail-oriented attitude manifests as patience and precision. This means taking the time to ensure that every microphone is placed correctly, every instrument is tuned perfectly, and every take is as close to perfect as possible. This approach not only captures the best possible sound but also reduces the need for extensive editing and corrections later on. Ask some top engineers and mixers and they will tell you that a well recorded track almost mixes itself.
Creating A Connection
One of the most significant impacts of attention to detail in audio production is its ability to enhance the emotional connection with the music, movie or TV show. The subtleties and nuances that a meticulous producer brings out in a track can evoke strong emotional responses from listeners. Whether it’s the barely perceptible reverb on a vocal that adds a haunting quality or the precise timing of a drum fill that gives a song its drive, these details matter. They can transform a good track, movie or TV show into one that resonates deeply with its audience.
From the sublime to the ridiculous, I was talking to Charles Maynes recently about the cow in the movie Twister. If you know what I mean then it’s iconic. He explained how he sat down and had to figure out how to make the cow in a tornado sound authentic. It took a great deal of time and imagination.
A detail-oriented approach helps maintain the artist’s vision and authenticity. It’s about preserving the integrity of the music, FX or dialogue, and ensuring that every element serves the overall artistic expression. This balance between technical perfection and artistic authenticity is crucial. Overproducing a project can strip it of its raw, emotional power, while underproducing can leave it sounding amateurish. The key lies in the details, in knowing when to push for excellence and when to let the natural imperfections shine through.
Professionalism And Reputation
Producers and engineers who consistently deliver high-quality work build a reputation for reliability and excellence. This reputation is invaluable in an industry where word-of-mouth and personal recommendations often drive new opportunities. As my father used to say; “Reputation is tomorrow’s profit.”
A great example of this is Brian Eno, whose innovative and detail-focused production techniques have made him one of the most respected figures in the music industry. His reputation for excellence is built on a foundation of meticulous attention to every aspect of the production process, from sound design to final mastering. This level of professionalism not only enhances the quality of the music but also fosters trust and long-term relationships with artists and clients.
If you are a sound designer then check out Robert Dudzik on Instagram. He spends hours experimenting trying to find the right sound. You can hear some of his latest work on The Tattooist of Auschwitz.
Attention to detail is also crucial in meeting and exceeding client expectations. In audio production, the client’s vision is paramount, and a detail-oriented approach ensures that this vision is realised to its fullest potential. This involves listening carefully to the client’s needs, making thoughtful suggestions, and executing the production with precision. When clients see that their project is being handled with care and dedication, it builds confidence and paves the way for future collaborations.
The Broader Impact On The Industry
The idea of hacks, shortcuts, and finding ways to do things the easy way are pervading modern audio production marketing. Attention to detail doesn’t just impact individual tracks or movies; it influences the broader music industry by setting higher standards and inspiring other professionals. Producers who prioritise detail help raise the bar for quality, encouraging others to adopt similar practices. This collective push for excellence benefits the entire industry, leading to better music and audio in movies and TV.
Importantly, a detail-oriented mindset can inspire the next generation of producers and engineers. By showcasing the importance of meticulous work, established professionals can mentor and guide newcomers, helping them understand the value of paying attention to every aspect of the production process. This mentorship is crucial in maintaining high standards and fostering a culture of excellence within the industry.
Paying attention to detail is more than a technical skill in audio production; it’s an essential attitude that shapes the entire creative process. From pre-production planning to the final mixing stages, a meticulous approach ensures that every element of a track is polished to perfection, enhancing the emotional impact and preserving the artistic vision.
Ultimately, attention to detail is about honouring the creative and the audience. It’s a mindset that drives professionals to go the extra mile, knowing that the smallest nuances can make the biggest difference.