Before recording Foley sounds, what should the writer do first?

• A. Buy equipment
• B. Plan ahead and make a list of potential noises
• C. Call the director
• D. Choose actors

Answer: (B)

In Foley work, the important first step is mapping out the sonic world and listing the noises you’ll need for each scene. By planning ahead and jotting down potential sounds, you give the Foley team a clear target: what actions, objects, and textures the audio should convey. This forethought helps you match sounds precisely to on-screen events, choose appropriate props and techniques, and run recording sessions efficiently.

Buying equipment happens after you know what sounds are needed, and while the director or performers might be involved later, the writer’s early job is to outline the envisioned soundscape and the specific noises that will bring it to life.