Digital technology has also affected the way work is performed in the sound department. Sounds are still occasionally recorded on a tape, but more often are recorded or stored onto DAT (digital audio tape), a CD, or a hard drive. Sound from these sources is uploaded directly into a digital audio workstation, such as Pro Tools®. The sound effects, dialogue and music editors sync their respective elements with the picture. Sound designers manipulate multiple sound effects to design multi-layered sounds for more complex actions on screen. The assembled sound is then ready to be mixed.

At the same time, visual effects artists are hard at work creating hundreds of computer-generated effects shots, depending on the film. Effects artists may simply add a shadow or clouds in the sky, or remove a wire or harness from a stunt actor. More often they create lush backgrounds, insert thousands of extras, or add meticulous details to wardrobe, props or sets. The effects are cut into the digital assembly of the film for the editor to view.

The studio’s Post-Production Administration team oversees the whole process, acting as a liaison between the studio and the director, editor, producers, music and sound supervisors to keep track of the budget and schedule. The studio Post Admin team also assists in making the crew deals and negotiating with vendors.