How can you use ADR to make sure your sound is consistent across multiple takes?

1 What is ADR and why do you need it?

ADR is a process of re-recording dialogue in a controlled environment, usually a sound booth or a studio, after the principal photography is done. ADR is used to fix or improve the sound quality, performance, or script of the dialogue that was captured on set. For example, you might need ADR if the original dialogue was distorted by background noise, wind, or technical issues; if the actor's delivery was not convincing, emotive, or coherent; or if the script changed during editing or post-production. ADR can also be used to add or change dialogue for creative or narrative reasons, such as adding voice-overs, narration, or off-screen dialogue.

2 How to prepare for ADR?

The first step to prepare for ADR is to identify which scenes and lines need to be re-recorded. You can use a software like Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere to create an ADR cue sheet, which is a document that lists the timecode, dialogue, and notes for each ADR cue. You can also use markers or labels to highlight the ADR cues on your timeline. The next step is to schedule the ADR session with the actors, the sound engineer, and the director. You should choose a suitable location that is quiet, acoustically treated, and equipped with the necessary equipment, such as a microphone, headphones, speakers, and a monitor. You should also provide the actors with the script, the cue sheet, and the reference footage, so they can familiarize themselves with the dialogue and the context.

3 How to record ADR?

The recording process of ADR involves playing back the original dialogue and the reference footage for the actor, and then asking them to repeat the line in sync with the mouth movements and the emotions of the character. The sound engineer will record multiple takes of each line, and then select the best one based on the quality, performance, and sync. The director will also provide feedback and direction to the actor, to ensure that the ADR matches the tone, mood, and intention of the scene. The actor should try to mimic the original dialogue as closely as possible, but also use their own voice and expression to make it natural and believable.

4 How to edit ADR?

The editing process of ADR involves importing the recorded dialogue into your editing software, and then aligning it with the original dialogue and the video. You can use tools like waveform, audio scrubbing, and snapping to adjust the timing and the sync of the ADR. You should also use crossfades, volume levels, and equalization to blend the ADR with the original dialogue and the ambient sound, and to avoid any abrupt or noticeable changes. You should also check for any background noise, pops, clicks, or breaths that might interfere with the clarity or the continuity of the ADR, and remove or reduce them with noise reduction, filters, or editing.

5 How to review ADR?

The final step of ADR is to review the results and make sure that the ADR is consistent, seamless, and effective. You should watch and listen to the entire scene or film with the ADR, and pay attention to the sound quality, the sync, the performance, and the story. You should also compare the ADR with the original dialogue and the reference footage, and see if there are any discrepancies or improvements. You should also ask for feedback from other people, such as the actors, the sound engineer, or the producer, and see if they have any comments or suggestions. You should also test the ADR on different devices and platforms, such as a TV, a laptop, or a phone, and see if it sounds consistent and clear.

6 What are some tips and tricks for ADR?

ADR can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but it can also be rewarding and satisfying if done well. To make the most of it, you should plan ahead and budget for ADR, as it can be expensive and difficult to arrange. It's also important to communicate and collaborate with the actors, so that they understand the purpose and process of ADR, and feel relaxed and confident. Visual and audio cues can help sync the ADR with the video, such as a beep or a countdown to signal the start of the line. You should also experiment and have fun with ADR, by trying different variations of lines or adding jokes or Easter eggs for creative or humorous reasons.