OFO No: 352103 

Other names for Sound Technician:

• Audio Operator 
• Audio Technician 
• Dubbing Machine Operator 
• Dubbing Projectionist (Sound Mixing) 
• Re-recording Mixer 
• Sound Editor / Mixer / Recordist / Operator / Spec 
• Sound Effects Person 
• Video and Sound Recorder 

What is a Sound Technician?

A Sound Technician’s main job is to ensure that the sound for a live or recorded session is as clear and as perfect as possible.

Sound Technicians can work on television, radio, film or video productions, or stage performances.

Stage performance examples:

• rock concerts
• political rallies
• public speeches
• sports events
• festivals
• large funerals & weddings and other indoor or outdoor events

The line between Sound Technician and Sound Engineer is quite fuzzy. It will really depend who you work for, what your job title may be. In some cases a Sound Technician will work under a Sound Engineer.

What does a Sound Technician do?

• checks electronic equipment to make sure it’s in proper working order
• makes sure sound is picked up perfectly
• controls the mixing board and adjusts volume levels
• makes sure, for instance, the voice is louder than music
• makes sure all the sounds are well balanced
• keeps up to date with new technology
• depending on job, travels to various venues
• if live performance, sets up equipment and tests it before performance

Are you . . . ?

• technically minded?
• a person who loves sound, not just music?
• punctual?
• reliable?
• a team player?
• dedicated?

How do I become a Sound Technician?

Suggestion:

You could start early by getting involved in the drama department/club at your school or in your community. There’s a lot to learn and the more skills you can gather while volunteering at your school or local dramatic society, the better.

If you are considering a career in ‘sound’ – this experience will assist you in your studies at a later date.

A good Sound Technicians & Sound Engineers have a solid knowledge of music and recording technology. An understanding of physics and electronics is advantageous.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

PATH 1

• Learnership – National Certificate: Music Industry: Sound Technology Level 4
• Learnership – National Certificate: Music Industry: Sound Technology Level 5

PATH 2

• Certificate in Sound Technology 

PATH 3

• Diploma in Sound Technology

A couple of examples:

Certificates & Diplomas:

• ACADEMY OF SOUND ENGINEERING (accredited)

Higher Certificate in Audio Technology
Diploma in Sound Engineering
Diploma in Audio Technology
And lot more relevant courses

• CAPE AUDIO COLLEGE (Institute of Sound Technology)

Diploma in Sound Technology & Production
Higher Certificate in Sound Technology

• CAE: COLLEGE OF AUDIO ENGINEERING

Music Industry: Sound Technology National Certificate
Audio Engineering Skills Course

• SAE INSTITUTE CREATIVE MEDIA EDUCATION

Higher Certificate in Sound Production

• CITYVARSITY

2 year Diploma in Sound Engineering (+ 3rd year advanced)

• DAMELIN

Short programme in Sound Engineering Practice
Short programme in Sound Recording Practice

Damelin Music Industry: Sound Technology Certificate
Damelin Diploma in Sound Technology

Degrees:

• ACADEMY OF SOUND ENGINEERING (accredited)

Bachelor of Science in Sound Engineering Technology
And lot more relevant courses

• SAE INSTITUTE CREATIVE MEDIA EDUCATION

Bachelor of Arts in Sound Production

• RHODES UNIVERSITY

Sound Technology

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Disc Jockey (DJ) … or … Television Presenter

Is becoming a Sound Technician the right career choice for me?

OFO No:

What is a Sound Designer?

A Sound Designer creates art out of sound. They usually work on film and television productions, in theatres and recording studios and may even work at live performances.  Some work in studios that create video games.

They are in charge of manipulating various aspects of sound and pre-recorded elements to create an almost perfect mood, effect or music for general listening.

What does a Sound Designer do?

• studies the script of a film or TV production
• meets with the Film Director early in production
• understands the requirements and expectations of the Director
• assists with developing effects and music to fit the specific contexts
• works alongside the composer
• collects necessary ‘sounds’ for the production

Are you … ?

• passionate about sound, music and acoustics?
• good with computers and audio equipment?
• a person with a good ear sound?
• able to handle pressure?
• a problem solver?
• a good communicator?
• a peoples’ person?
• willing to work long and unusual hours?
• willing to work in extreme weather conditions?

How do I become a Sound Designer?

CLICK HERE for the various qualifications you can do in Sound Technology, Sound Engineering etc.

You will find the qualifications under the section: How do I become a Sound Technician?

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Disc Jockey … or … Sound Operator

Is becoming a Sound Designer the right career choice for me?

OFO No:

CLICK HERE:

For our interview with  Sound Engineer, Nishan Surjoo

What is a Sound Engineer?

As a Sound Engineer in a recording studio, you would make high quality recordings of music, speech and sound effects.

Sound Engineers use complex electronic equipment to record sound for many different uses, such as:

• commercial music recordings
• radio, TV, film and commercials
• corporate videos
• websites
• computer games and other types of interactive media

What does a Sound Engineer do?

• plans recording sessions with producers and artists
• sets up microphones and equipment in the studio
• sets the right sound levels and dynamics
• operates equipment for recording (mixing, mastering, sequencing and sampling)
• records each instrument or item onto a separate track
• monitors and balances sound levels
• mixes tracks to produce a final ‘master’ track
• logs tapes and other details of the session in the studio archive

Are you … ?

• passionate about sound, music and acoustics?
• good with computers and audio equipment?
• a person with a good ear for sound?
• able to handle pressure?
• a good communicator?
• a peoples’ person?
• willing to work long and unusual hours?

How do I become a Sound Engineer?

CLICK HERE for the various qualifications you can do in Sound Technology, Sound Engineering etc.

You will find the qualifications under the section: How do I become a Sound Technician?

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Composer … or .. Film Producer

Is becoming a Sound Engineer the right career choice for me?

OFO No: 343204

What is a Set Designer?

A Set Designer is responsible for taking the ideas of the Film Production Designer, researching the concept and making these ideas come to life.  These ideas need to be as authentic and believable as possible.

A Set Designer is not only responsible for the location but will make sure the architecture, costumes, transport etc are all relevant to the story line and period of the production.

Set Designers usually work on a contract basis.  They can work for set building companies, exhibition construction companies, film/movie houses, interior design firms, photographic studios etc.

What does a Set Designer do?

• studies the script and discusses ideas with the Film Production Designer and other crew members
• researches a lot – to determine the fashion, architectural style and period of the production
• takes note of size, shape, weight, colour, materials used, cost, ease of use and safety of all aspect s of the design
• produces preliminary sketches (by hand and computer)
• creates small, scaled 3D models of various parts of the set
• oversees construction of the set
• is involved in the costume design and manages the making of the costumes
• ensures the creative and technical requirements from the director and producer are followed
• follows and makes sure budgets are met

Are you … ?

• creative?
• 3D aware?
• colour aware?
• detail orientated?
• good with your hands?
• a good drawer?
• design orientated?
• a good manager?
• deadline orientated?
• driven?

How do I become a Set Designer?

You could start early by getting involved in the drama department/club at your school or in your community. 

There is a lot to learn and the more skills you can gather while volunteering at your school or local dramatic society, the better.  It will also assist you in your studies at a later date if you are seriously considering a job as a Set Designer.

One can study a National Diploma and a further BTech in Performing Arts Technology at one of the universities of technology listed below.

Skills such as carpentry, electrical, and knowledge of working with fibreglass etc could come in very handy.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Architectural Technologist … or … Graphic Designer

Is becoming a Set Designer the right career choice for me?

OFO No: 265412

What is a Television Producer?

A TV Producer plans and organises all aspects of a television production. They need to know exactly what the audience wants. 

They can’t take chances as a bad programme is very bad for business and companies will not advertise during those bad programmes. The better the quality the programme – the more advertisers will be interested which means the more they can charge advertising agencies to air their ads. In the end, the television company will make more money. 

So it’s all about ratings!

The TV Producer watches a lot of television to:

• get an idea of customer interests
• see what their competitors are screening
• getting ideas
• assess industry standards

What does a TV Producer do?

• commissions screen writers to write a script
• evaluates scripts
• coordinates various aspects of production, for example camera work, audio, scenes, music, etc
• manages all aspects of the production, for example: costumes, props, music etc
• views taped programmes
• reviews budgets and expenditures
• is in charge of marketing material

Are you … ?

• observant?
• creative?
• visually aware?
• a peoples’ person?
• confident?
• a good manager and marketer?
• a multi-tasker?
• deadline driven?
• able to deal with stress?

How do I become a Television Producer?

Many Television Producers have worked their way up through the ranks of television. They have spent years and years collecting skills and a better understanding of every aspect of television.  This collection of experience is worth a ton of gold. 

They will be more empathic to the rest of the people working on set as they will completely understand each and every job.

A good education is, however, a definite advantage. A large number of colleges and other training providers offer Film, Media and Television Production courses that may provide a suitable background.  A head for business or training in business studies would also be advantageous.

By studying, you may jump ahead of the rest and reach the position of Television Producer quite early on.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• AFDA

A film school which offers courses and degrees in all aspect of film making.

• BIG FISH SCHOOL OF DIGITAL FILM MAKING

• TSHWANE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

• UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

• AUTEUR FILM SCHOOL

• CENTRE FOR FILM AND MEDIA STUDIES

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Stage Theatre Technician … or … Casting Director

Is becoming a TV Producer the right career choice for me?

OFO No:

What is a Film Production Designer?

A Film Production Designer is responsible for the ‘look’ of the movie/television programme or music video and advert. 

The Film Production Designer works closely with both the director and producer and together they will decide the ‘style’ and ‘look’ of the production.

Production design is a varied field made up of many different disciplines (skills) which employ a variety of different people. There is work for talent of all kinds: special effects make-up designers, set builders, painters, puppet builders, sculptors, costume designers, etc.  Team work is essential in this job.

In some cases, the Film Production Designer may be referred to as the Art Director.

What does a Film Production Designer do?

• researches and creates an overall ‘look’ for the production
• meets with director and producer
• creates sketches and 3d concept models
• directs various department heads: set building, location scouts, costumes, special effects etc
• manages all parts and staff responsible for the ‘look’
• works with large budgets

Are you … ?

• passionate about the movies?
• extremely creative?
• interested in design?
• architectural inclined?
• a team player?
• a good manager?
• a good communicator?
• an out-the-box thinker?
• highly organised and logical?
• detail orientated?

How do I become a Film Production Designer?

There are a number of ways to becoming a Film Production Designer.

Firstly, you should have a working background in design. Knowledge or studies in architecture, theatrical set design and/or construction and techniques would be extremely beneficial.

Because large budgets need to be stuck to and the complicated nature of the job, a background in management and planning would also be highly recommended. 

It’s advisable to start your career as a Film Production Designer in the position of an assistant to an already experienced Film Production Designer. From this position you will hone your skills and become more knowledgeable about production.

Those interested in pursuing a career in production design should have a working knowledge of the fundamentals of design.

Students interested in pursuing production design might major in architecture, environmental design or theatrical set design.

It’s also suggested that future production designers develop communication skills, because an integral part of the job is to develop concepts and effectively communicate them to everyone from producers to production staff members.

Graduates looking to begin a career in production design should consider becoming a production assistant for practical training. New graduates might seek job opportunities in student films, commercials or low-budget music videos.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Set Designer … or … Architect

Is becoming a Film Production Designer the right career choice for me?

OFO No:

What is a Film Producer?

A Film Producer is like an entrepreneur.  They recognise a good a product and know how to successfully market it.

A Film Producer is usually the first person to initiate a film.  The may also be involved inthe making of television programmes or advertisements. 

WIth regard to a movie, they have sourced a story/book and then commission a scriptwriter to write a film script.

The Film Producer will work together with their chosen Film Director with regard to choosing the creative ‘look’ they want for the film.

A Film Producer also coordinates, supervises and controls:

• fundraising
• hiring key personnel
• arranging for distributors

The Film Producer, like the Film Director, is involved throughout all phases of the filmmaking process from development to completion of a project.

Famous Film Producers:

Walt Disney,George Lucas and Clint Eastwood

• The Film Producer has overall control of a film project.
• The Film Director actually makes the film.

What does a Film Producer do?

• finds the correct scriptwriter and director for the project
• discusses and collaborating what creative approach they will take
• fundraises
• prepares detailed financial package
• casts and hires staff
• manages the production team
• keeps a watchful eye over the whole proceedings (from start to finish and distribution)
• is in charge of marketing

Are you … ?

• risk taker?
• observant?
• creative?
• visually aware?
• a peoples’ person?
• confident?
• a good manager and marketer?
• a multi-tasker?
• deadline driven?
• able to deal with stress?

How do I become a Film Producer?

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

• UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

• TSHWANE UNIVERSITY

• SA FILM (News and Resources for SA Film Makers)

Lists institutions that offer training in film and video skills. Most, however, only offer Video training. There is no all-encompassing authority that regulates the standards of these schools at this point in time.  

WARNING: Be very sure to ask exactly what they offer.

• AFDA
  

A film school which offers courses and degrees in all aspect of film making.

• FILM:  FILM INDUSTRY LEANERSHIP MENTORSHIP

Is an NGO which will assist you to get into the film industry.

• BIG FISH SCHOOL OF DIGITAL FILM MAKING

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Casting Director … or … Advertising Manager 

Is becoming a Film Director the right choice for me? 

OFO No: 265201

Other names for Composer:

What is a Composer?

A Composer creates and writes music.  A Composer may specialise in a certain area like:

• Classical music (like Beethoven and Mozart)
• Jazz (like Duke Ellington)
• Choral (like Handel)
• Rock (like Freddie Mercury)
• Opera and Musical Theatre (like Andrew Lloyd Webber)
• Movie and television soundtracks etc (like Ennio Morricone)

They often work alongside songwriters.

A Composer may be commissioned for a particular piece of music, for example a soundtrack to a movie or they may create their own music to record, or create their own musical show.

What does a Composer do?

• understanding the various sound of instruments
• being able to read and write musical arrangements
• meeting with various directors and producers
• writing lyrics on their own or in conjunction with a songwriter
• bringing together different strands of music theory
• applying musical knowledge of rhythm, melody and tone
• utilising electronic means such as computing, to produce outputs
• facilitating amateur groups in producing music for plays or community operas
• composing music for TV, films, plays and for dance
• working on and composing for oneself

Are you … ?

• passionate about music?
• able to read and write music?
• able to play a number of instruments?
• a person with a good ear?
• able to work on one’s own?
• dedicated?
• driven?
• willing to work long and unusual hours?
• able to handle criticism?

How do I become a Composer?

To become established as a Composer takes time. Newly established Composers may benefit from bursary schemes or be lucky enough to be appointed as the Composer with an orchestra or community music centre.

Other sources of income initially are from competitions and awards.

Once established, a concert Composer can make money from a variety of sources including commissions, publishing and recording contracts and royalties from performances, broadcasts and sales of recordings and sheet music.

Many universities offer training in music.  Check with your local institution whether they do.

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

PATH 1

Certificate in Music

• University of Cape Town
• University of SA: UNISA
• University of Stellenbosch

PATH 2

Diploma in Music

PATH 3

Bachelor of Music

PATH 4

National Diploma in Music

• Tshwane University of Technology

BTech in Music (Bachelors in Music)

• COMPOSERS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA

http://www.composers.co.za/
 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:   Sound Engineer … or … Singer

Is becoming a Composer the right career choice for me?

OFO No: 265602

Other names for TV Presenter:

• Newsroom Manager
• TV Announcer
• TV Broadcaster
• TV Commentator
• TV Compeer
• TV Newsreader

What is a Television Presenter?

Presenters are the ‘faces of tv’ and are regularly seen in a variety of programmes, or between programmes.

Television Presenters may specialise in:

• Sports (like Soccerzone)
• Magazine  (like Pasella)
• News and Weather
• Reality (like Survivor)
• Talkshow (like Katch it with Khanyi)
• Topical (like 3rd Degree)
• Childrens’ programmes (like Yo TV Toddlers)
• Documentary (like Top Gear)

Some TV Presenters introduce live programmes, while others announce pre-recorded or filmed programmes. This usually happens between adverts and programmes.

Television Presenters work under bright, hot lights in front of cameras. They are required to work irregular hours in shifts.

Some TV Presenters may create, record and produce their own special television programmes.

What does a TV Presenter do?

• prepares and delivers news, sports, and/or weather reports
• gathers and rewrites material so that it will fit specific time slots
• reads news flashes to inform audiences of important events
• introduces shows or upcoming events
• selects program content in conjunction with producers
• researches background information to prepare for programs or interviews
• interviews show guests about their lives etc
• comments on music and other matters, for example weather or traffic conditions
• discusses various topics over the telephone with viewers
• makes promotional/celebrity appearances at public, private or fund-raising events

Are you … ?

• self-confident?
• aesthetically appealing?
• confident?
• a person with a good sense of humour?
• an extrovert?
• a person with a good general knowledge?
• a good, clear speaker?
• someone with a good command of language/s?
• professional?

How do I become a Television Presenter?

TRAINING:

• CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
• Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
• To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. 
• CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions. 

There are a number of ways to becoming a TV Presenter:

DRAMA CLUB

to start – being part of your drama club at school or in your local community

CHILDRENS PROGRAMMES

auditioning as a young person presenting childrens’ programmes and working your way up through to more adult-orientated programmes
studying speech and drama at one of SA’s or private institutions (see under ACTOR for more details)

STUDYING

studying media and film courses at one of SA’s or private institutions (see under TV director for more details)

AFDA

A film school which offers courses and degrees in all aspect of film making.

• BIG FISH SCHOOL OF DIGITAL FILM MAKING

• TSHWANE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

• UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

• AUTEUR FILM SCHOOL

• CENTRE FOR FILM AND MEDIA STUDIES

PLEASE NOTE:  Some courses are not accredited and these may prevent you getting your job of choice. 

OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER:  Radio / TV Announcer … or … Entertainer

Is becoming a TV Presenter the right career choice for me?

OFO No:

See under Make-up Artist on our website for more details.

__________________________________

You have a talent for drawing, painting, or design. You’re versatile and inventive, and you have a visual imagination.

Your goal is to be a professional make-up designer in motion pictures, television, theatre, or commercial advertising.

You enjoy working with creative people. You’re resourceful, hardworking and reliable. You have an eye for detail and take pride in your work. You don’t mind working long days, and you cope under pressure with a smile.

Make-up Designers work with all kinds of performers, models, and celebrities. No two days are the same. If you enjoy variety in your life, you couldn’t pick a better occupation.

It can be demanding work, but it is highly rewarding.

Motion pictures and other entertainment arts are all about making audiences believe -the Make-up Designer plays a pivotal role in achieving this.

Information: City Varsity