Transactions of the Society of Motion Picture Engineers (1929)

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174 Transactions of S.M.P.E., Vol. XIII, No. 37, 1929 he assert positive limits. He must be capable of adapting his facilities to his problems. While his limitations bear a definite relation to engineering, they also bear as great a relation to photography and action. Therefore, his limits are determined only by himself ; and hence if he be genuine, he is very definitely an artist. Whether the material under his control be music or dialogue, he must contribute a sense of appreciation for values. He must have a feeling for that which is to follow and be able to anticipate tvhether the material will continue constant or grow more piano or more forte. At the same time, he need be constantly careful that he does not check or re-touch the softer or louder passages except where essential. Similarly he must not suppress latitude. He must apply his methods, and this includes proper placement of microphones, in such a manner as to allow the actors as much freedom as they are allowed by the cameras. He must not interfere with good photography. By proper cooperation with the director and cameraman he can work out methods which will net as fine a picture as would be possible, were the same subject being shot without sound. He must recognize production values both in picture and action, and devise a means for procuring a good recording without destroying the value of a spacious and beautiful set. If the scene be of a rough or delicate artistic value he must contribute a quality of appropriate sound. A perspective of sound in keeping with that of the camera is desirable in spite of the fact that optical illusion and lip reading somewhat correct for differences in volume. The placement of microphones is an art by itself, not to be discussed in this paper. The monitor man must have vision. He cannot think only of the present. He must consider the possible changes Avhich, occurring within the next two years, will directly affect his finished product. For example, thought must be given to the influence upon his recording of a change in projection equipment. It is reasonable to believe that any general improvement in projection will bring out greater definition, and that the trend will be to sharpen the sound. Then, the monitor need be careful that his offering is not shallow. There have been some very poor recordings turned out by really genuine monitor men. The fault has not been theirs, nor is this traceable to any one thing or person. Producers and their