Giselle Hall
“Work hard and be kind to everyone. It’s a small industry...making and maintaining good relationships will be your most treasured asset.”
Giselle Hall
Giselle is a sound engineer at 750MPH
How did you get started in sound engineering?
I thought I wanted to work in the music business, so I went back to school for Audio Production. One of the modules in the course was post production, which I knew basically nothing about. I was fascinated by the fact that much of the sound we hear on television and in films is done in post. Loved it. After my course I hit Soho looking for a foot in the door, which I eventually found as a Runner and worked my way up over the years.
What is it like being a woman in sound engineering?
It's funny, I don't think about that really but, I guess, we are pretty rare. I think it's much the same as being a woman in any industry that's typically (been) male dominated. I do get a fair amount of comments, but, generally, reception is warm. I'd like to think most people today appreciate diversity in the workforce. I do think, though, as women (working in male dominated industries) we quietly (and somewhat inherently) feel this added pressure to always do well...never fail...and prove to be "as good as" our male counterparts. We need to build each other up and obliterate this mindset where it still exists.
Why do you think there aren't a lot of women sound engineers, and do you think this will change in the future?
That's a very good question. I really don't know. It could be accessibility from a young age as it's a fairly niche field. I certainly wasn't exposed to audio production as a subject in elementary or highschool. It was an interest I had that I had to seek out/pursue for myself. Also, maybe some women are steered away from the sciences or more technical subjects. So probably a combination of things and perhaps circumstances. But, I hope, as the industry evolves and there's more visibility, opportunity and wider reach there'll be more uptake by women.
Do you think there is anything that sets apart women sound engineers from men sound engineers (i.e do women have a different approach or aesthetic that sets them apart?)
Women and men are intrinsically different so, no doubt, there will be things - approaches, aesthetics - that will set them apart. But I think it's our individual perspectives (woman or man) that set us apart more uniquely, making our styles and what we each bring to our work interesting. The fusion of these differences is what can then produce good work whatever the industry.
What advice do you have for women trying to break into this field/women who are just getting started in sound engineering?
Work hard and be kind to everyone. It's a small industry...making and maintaining good relationships will be your most treasured asset.
What is your favorite campaign that you have worked on and why?
I worked on a documentary years ago called Jungle Sisters. It tells the story of two young girls, in India, who leave home and their families to pursue factory work in the city. I found it very moving. I've also recently worked on a short film called Women of the Market, which features women sharing their experiences as vendors in various markets across London. There've been other very different campaigns I've enjoyed and appreciated for other reasons but I think I most enjoy contributing to work that provides a platform for subjects that and/or people who might otherwise not be heard. Being a part of bringing the sound to life in these projects and helping to communicate these stories means something. And that's rewarding.
What inspires you and your work?
My Mum. My Nan. Family.
Are there any podcasts/books etc that you recommend to someone entering the sound designer field?
Hahaha the only podcast I've listened to recently is My Favourite Murder (banger) and I only read fiction...when I'm not catching up with my vices on Hayu. There are loads out there but I'm a practical/tactile learner so I'd encourage just doing... but also take the time to question. Watch movies, listen to music and do it actively - paying attention to the sound and the silence. Take full advantage of training/learning from mentors and lap up imparted knowledge from the more experienced.