CV

Michael Leaning

Sound Designer

shotgunmike@outook.com

Hard working and driven, with a strong understanding of the complexities of game audio. Experienced with many aspects of audio creation and implementation, seeing many triple A titles through from start to finish. Excellent working under pressure, with a proven track record of delivering high quality audio within tight deadlines. Works well independently and as part of a team to realise the developer’s vision. Skilled in offering advice and generating ideas to create an immersive gaming experience.

Key Skills

  • Sound Design and implementation
  • Foley recording and session direction
  • Proficient Wwise user
  • Audio system design
  • Planning and organisation of audio pipeline
  • Familiar with most DAWs, primarily Pro Tools HD11
  • Online game development
  • Unreal 4 and Blueprint scripting
  • Audio editing and optimisation
  • Cut scene and trailer scoring and mixing
  • Directing vocal sessions
  • Propriety engine development
  • 7.1 surround sound mixing
  • Field recording and IR capture

Career History

ShotgunMike Audio
Freelance Sound Designer

May 2016 – Present

Working as a freelance sound designer from my home studio, I’ve provided a variety of bespoke audio services to several large studios and companies.

Clients Include:

Blue Isle Studios
Exient
MediaTonic
Obsidian Entertainment
Pinewood Studios
SoundMorph
Submersion Audio
Sumo Digital
Sweet Justice Sound
Traveller’s Tales
Winged Sakura

Lionhead Studios
Senior Sound Designer

Dec 2014 – Apr 2016
Sound Designer (Contract)

Jul 2013 – Nov 2014

I provided audio for the Fable Legends Hero team, focusing on sound design, implementation and system design for the creative and dynamic play back of audio in game. I was also responsible for the planning and direction of outsourced hero audio assets, ensuring the deliveries met Lionhead’s expected quality levels.

  • Led the hero audio team, establishing the sonic aesthetic of the hero characters
  • Designed thousands of original audio assets, including magic, weapons, foley, and vocals
  • Mentored junior members of the team, delegating tasks and providing support and feedback on their work
  • Worked closely with Pinewood Studios, planning and directing numerous foley and vocal sessions at their Shepperton Studios
  • Collaborated with audio outsourcers Formosa, bringing additional audio content in on time, within budget and thematically in style
Traveller’s Tales
Sound Designer

Apr 2009 – Jun 2013

Working as part of a small audio team, I created audio for all aspects of the console versions of the popular LEGO games, including sound design and implementation using our in-house engine, music selection and implementation, dialogue, cut scene and trailer scoring and mixing in surround sound.

  • Developed 8 LEGO games and a LEGO Batman film in a 4 year time period
  • Helped to develop and shape new audio tools to constantly improve the sound of the games
  • Worked on many of the most popular franchises in the world, including Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, Batman and Star Wars
  • Key involvement in the transition to dialogue driven narratives

Education

MSc Music and Sound Technology

Sep 07 – Sep 08

Commendation

University of Hertfordshire

BSc Music Technology

Sep 04 – Jun 07

2.1

University of Hertfordshire

Interests

I enjoy playing RPG, FPS and strategy games, I’m a fan of historical, fantasy and sci-fi genres. I’m a guitarist, previously performing in several bands playing original music in and around the London area. I also enjoy motorsport, rugby, mountain biking, exercise and drinking delicious ale from a pewter tankard, just not all at the same time.