Due to the increase in video editing and viewing, sound effects have become an in-demand product. As a result, many sound designers may find it worthwhile to build a sound effects library from their recordings in order to make extra money. The following tips give an overview of the steps involved in making a useful library to sell online.
1. Using a mobile hand-held digital recorder, record a huge variety of 48k sample rate single hits and ambiances of all possible types.
2. Import this raw audio into a digital audio workstation (DAW) and edit, using eq, filters, and normalization, to take out noise and maximize sonic impact.
3. Mix distinct stereo .wav files at 48k 24bit sample rates if possible.
4. As you bounce each file, name them with consistent SKU numbers with three unique letters followed by 5 digits such as AOS00001 Dog Bark 1, AOS00002 Bird Chirp 1 and so on.
5. After creating the files build an excel sheet which lists categories, sub-categories, filenames, SKU numbers, keywords, descriptions, pricing, and time length.
6. Once you have your excel information and .wav files, consider converting the .wavs to both .aiffs for Mac users and .mp3s for web use, making sure that all .mp3s are based on a 44.1k sample rate.
Shoot for creating a few thousand sound effects if you want to actually generate enough money to pay some sizable monthly bills. Find as many online outlets as possible through which to license your sounds. With a bit of determination, one can find a dozen or so online distributors willing to host and license your library.