Sound design is a key component of which production phase?

Sound design is primarily focused on enhancing the auditory experience of a film, which occurs during the post-production phase. This is the stage where all elements of sound—such as dialogue, sound effects, and music—are mixed and refined to create a cohesive audio landscape that complements the visual aspects of the film.

In post-production, sound designers use various tools and techniques to edit, layer, and balance audio elements, ensuring that they align with the intended mood and tone of the project. This pre-existing footage allows sound designers to work with the visuals and narrative structure that have already been defined, enabling them to craft an enriching audio experience that elevates the content's overall impact.

While sound elements may be discussed or considered during pre-production, the actual design and implementation of sound occur later, making post-production the critical phase for sound design in film production.