General Best Practices for Cues
Think like an editor: Your cue needs to serve the purpose of background music for visuals. It’s not about showcasing creativity alone—it’s about making the editor’s job easier.
Make sure your QUALITY is on point. This is crucial and WILL make or break the cue. Listen to your references provided and match the sound quality at the least, paying close attention to the types of sonics and the sound selection that is being used. If it is Modern, do NOT use "dated" instruments, as this WILL stick out.
Keep it simple: Less is more in many cases. Avoid overcomplicating things with excessive elements.
Make sure the Pacing/Tempo Matches the Project: Always check your references and make sure to never go Below the Tempo of the category given – This is key as the pace HAS been Set already, so its one of the “unsung” guidelines that must be followed.
Deliver multiple usable parts: Include variation in your cue (peaks and valleys) to give editors more options for how to use it. – DO NOT REPEAT… IF you are repeating more than 4 bars without adding something or taking away, it is a Loop in the ears of Bunim Standards.
GIVE what is Being Asked For!: Follow the References!! Pay attention to the sound selection, the "type" of cue and category you are writing to/for, the tempo it is in, the types of drums that are being used (electric, acoustic, etc), the types of pianos/keys that are being used. Do Not use sounds that are not in line with the references, as that is a good way to get your cue revised or passed on.
Listen and Compare the Mix/Master of the references: A/B your mix up against the references to make sure you are meeting the sonic delivery and what is expected to be heard for the project.
READ, READ, READ - Briefs: THIS is where MANY stumble in this field. It is usually given and laid out for most, but the failure to read is one of the greatest trip ups in a career. Trust that this is noted when working with companies, and remembered. So make the best practice of being Consistently Thorough in all you do, especially the "admin" part of things, as this is crucial to all that are responsible for your work ONCE submitted. I have seen folders thrown out for the lack of proofing material.
Key Visual/Auditory Elements:
Peaks and Valleys:
Cues should not be monotonous or repetitive. Editors want identifiable sections with variations in dynamics (loud and soft) and texture.
Visually this translates into waveforms with visible "peaks and valleys"—sections that are fuller and others that are sparser.
note: This structure helps editors find useful parts of the cue for different scenes or edits.