Exploring visual synchronization methods used today
When we speak about visual synchronization methods, we’re talking about using picture cueing accompanied by the metronome click. Since the Golden Age of Hollywood, visual synchronization methods have been used to record live orchestra music to picture. In this section, we will look closer at picture cueing in the olden days and how it’s used today.
Picture cueing
Picture cueing is a visual synchronization method that uses superimposed punches and streamers to assist the conductor, during a live orchestra recording session, to synchronize the music to the picture. Punches and streamers are used especially when the music needs to flow, or have a “rubato” feel, and doesn’t need to follow strict rhythmic pulses.
In the past, a streamer was created by etching a marker line in the celluloid film. This appeared as a diagonal line, superimposed over the movie, flowing from the left to the right...
