Internet Business Tips and Notes

Due to the increase in video editing and viewing, sound effects have become an in-demand product. As a result, many sound designers may find it worthwhile to build a sound effects library from their recordings in order to make extra money. The following tips give an overview of the steps involved in making a useful library to sell online.

1. Using a mobile hand-held digital recorder, record a huge variety of 48k sample rate single hits and ambiances of all possible types.

2. Using a digital audio workstation (DAW) edit, eq, filter, and normalize these recordings to amp up the volume and take out nasty noises and frequencies.

3. Mix distinct stereo .wav files at 48k 24bit sample rates if possible.

4. Name each file as you mix them down with three-letter, five-digit, SKU numbers such as SFX00001 CarHonk1, SFX00002 CatMeow2, etc.

5. Make an excel sheet that includes file name, categories, sub-categories, SKU numbers, length, descriptions, keywords, and pricing.

6. Make different formats for all the files such as .mp3s based on 44.1k sample rate for web use and .aiffs for people who use Macs.

Shoot for creating a few thousand sound effects if you want to actually generate enough money to pay some sizable monthly bills. Find as many online outlets as possible through which to license your sounds. With a bit of determination, one can find a dozen or so online distributors willing to host and license your library.

Tags: IM