Meet the Team: Becca, Sound Designer and Composer

In this series, we dive into the talented individuals behind Occult Audio. Today, we're introducing Becca, a versatile sound designer and composer whose background, dedication, and passion for audio bring depth and quality to our projects.

What does your day-to-day look like?

"Every day is a bit different, depending on what projects are happening and which deadlines are coming up. I focus on my highest-priority task for most of the day, then usually end with some time composing for an album I'm planning."

How did you get into working in audio, sound design, and composition?

"I’ve been studying music since I was six, starting with piano. I took music courses in college and university, but it was the Audio for Media course at university that really solidified my interest in working in the film and game industries."

Was there a particular moment or experience that sparked your interest?

"During secondary school, I did some work experience in architecture. It was interesting, but I found myself wishing I was home playing piano. That experience convinced me I wanted a career in music and audio. I was fortunate to have an amazing piano teacher who was both a brilliant pianist and a well-rounded musician—she really inspired my early interest."

What’s your process for approaching a new project?

"If it's a composition project, I start by gathering references and researching the necessary style. Then, I watch the film to understand its characters, story development, and major themes so I can create appropriate motifs. For film sound, I watch through the footage to identify issues with recorded audio and note what additional sounds will be needed, so we can plan recording sessions if necessary. I start by cleaning up the dialogue, then do a 'foley pass' where I add the missing sounds scene by scene."

Are there any rituals or habits that help you get into the right mindset?

"My desk has to be tidy, and a cup of tea is essential. If I need serious focus, I’ll burn some incense—it’s very on-brand, I know!"

What are some of the most exciting projects you’ve worked on with Occult Audio?

"Working on Fright was amazing, and going to the premiere in London and meeting the crew was a definite highlight! I also loved doing sound for Zombies Third Reich (which is unreleased, so I can’t say too much), but creating the zombie and gunshot effects was incredibly fun."

What’s your favorite part of the job?

"The satisfaction of seeing the final product and knowing I played such a big role in bringing it to life."

Is there a particular aspect of the creative process that you love the most?

"I love the moment when I put something away for the night, and then the next day, I listen back and think, ‘Wow, that’s better than I remembered.’ That’s usually a good sign that I’m onto something."

Who are some of your biggest influences or inspirations in the audio world?

"I don’t really look up to celebrities, but my biggest inspirations are the people who have supported me throughout my career, like Barney Oram, Akash Thakkar, and Tobias Lilja. In terms of musical style, I’ve always admired Richard Freeland (Disasterpeace), and I’m a big fan of Austin Wintory and Olivier Deriviere."

What’s one thing about your job that most people might find surprising?

"People are often surprised by just how many aspects of audio I handle. Depending on the project, I might be doing dialogue editing, ADR, foley, ambience, sound design, composition, music supervision, and finally, overall mixing and mastering."

When you’re not working on music or sound, what do you enjoy doing?

"I’m part of a game jam group that comes together around Halloween to create horror games. That’s all happening right now, so it's keeping me busy!"

Any hobbies or interests outside of audio?

"I’m really into video games—Death’s Door and Reka are my current favorites. I also love snowboarding whenever I get the chance!"

Becca’s passion and dedication to audio shine through in everything she does, and we’re thrilled to have her as part of the Occult Audio team. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes looks at the talented individuals bringing our projects to life!