What are sound effects in video production?

Sound effects in video production refer to audio clips that are specifically synchronized with actions on screen. These are distinct sounds that enhance the viewing experience by adding realism or emphasizing certain actions or events within the video. For instance, the sound of a door creaking or a car engine revving would be categorized as sound effects, which are typically added in post-production to complement the visuals and to engage the audience more effectively.

The other options touch upon different aspects of audio incorporation in film and video. Ambient sounds recorded on set provide a natural sound environment but do not meet the definition of sound effects, as they create a background rather than sync with specific actions. Vocal recordings of actors are classified as dialogue, which serves a different function, and background music tracks provide emotional context or atmosphere but are not categorized as sound effects. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in video production, as each type of audio element contributes uniquely to the overall storytelling.