Buzz
Remember when we used to capture memories on video camcorders instead of phones? Those camcorders were perfect for casual, home use. Just point, press a button, and both audio and video were recorded simultaneously in one file.
This differs from Hollywood’s approach, where visuals and sound are recorded separately. The film images are captured by cameras, and the audio is captured by a separate audio recorder—whether analog or digital. If a set is too noisy, some productions might even have actors re-record their lines in a studio using a technique called Automated Dialogue Replacement/Additional Dialogue Recording (ADR).
In post-production, the audio and video need to be synchronized. To help with this process, that distinct clapperboard sound comes in handy.
Known as a clapperboard or slate board, among other names, it helps with syncing audio and film, as well as identifying scenes and takes. The clap or click from the board is easily detectable by editors on the audio track, allowing them to align it with the visual cue of the clapper closing, thus syncing sound with the moving picture.
Initially, these boards were made from actual slate, later evolving into whiteboards, with scene details written in chalk or marker. Information typically includes scene and take numbers, camera angles, date, production title, and director’s name. The black and white diagonal lines on the hinged section are there for better visibility.
Nowadays, many big productions use ‘digislates’ or ‘smart slates.’ These digital clapperboards feature an LED display that shows a timecode synced with the audio recorder. No clap is needed; just showing the board to the camera is enough for editors to match the film and audio at the same point.
However, on a lighter note, if you're searching for gift ideas for film buffs, this type of board could be a great option.
This article was first published in 2012 and has since been updated.
