Foley
The reproduction of everyday sound effects that are added to films in post-production.
In depth
Named after Jack Foley, this process involves artists watching the film and physically making sounds (footsteps, cloth movement, breaking glass) in sync with the picture to replace or enhance the on-set audio.
Example
“To imitate dry snow, a Foley artist may squeeze or step on a pouch of cornstarch while matching an actor's footsteps to picture.”
Origin and history
After moving to California in 1914, Jack Foley entered silent pictures as a double and stunt performer. He later worked for Universal in roles that included location scouting, writing, assistant directing, and directing. During the late-1920s transition to synchronized sound, he helped perform and record effects live against picture for Universal's 'Show Boat.' The synchronized performance method associated with his name remains central to Foley work today.
Why filmmakers use it
Production recording prioritizes usable dialogue and cannot always isolate every footstep, cloth movement, or handled prop. Foley gives sound editors clean, synchronized performances they can shape for character, perspective, and rhythm. The work is often designed to pass unnoticed while making physical action feel specific and continuous.
More examples in cinema
- A performer may repeat an actor's walk with different shoes across wood, gravel, or tile until the timing and weight fit the shot.
- Clothing rustle, keys, tableware, bags, and prop handling are often performed separately so each sound can be controlled in the mix.
Common confusion
Foley is not the same as 'sound design.' Sound design covers the entire audio palette including music, ambience, and effects; Foley is specifically the performance and recording of synchronized everyday sounds.