What degree do you need to be a foley artist?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

You do not need a degree to be a foley artist. Becoming a Foley artist doesn't require specific degrees or courses, although some do have a film education of some kind, and can provide industry critical knowledge, as well as a means to network. Foley artist jobs, however, are hard to come by, and competition for them is fierce, but those who get them are paid well for their artistry.

The most important part of becoming a Foley artist is through hands-on experience that isn't taught in film schools, nor are there Foley artist apprenticeships available.

One way to get experience, says CareersinFilm.com, is to ask a working Foley artist if you can shadow them on the job for a few days, then do the same with another, because each has a unique style and their own ideas.

Then find one who will let you be their assistant - paid or unpaid - and learn all you can about the job. Be sure your help is making their job easier so they'll want to keep you on. You'll gradually be allowed to do more than fetch props and put them away.

During your time mentoring with a Foley artist you can watch how the artists experiment making different sounds, think about why one idea worked and another didn't. Ask for permission to try the props out on the stage yourself because you really learn by doing. As you learn, keep a portfolio of sound effects you've learned to do yourself so you can show it in interviews.