Tutorial — Build Tension with Asymmetry & Narrow Soundstage

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Goal

Create unease without jump scares by combining asymmetrical compositions, delayed reverses, and a narrow soundstage.

Required Tools

• DaVinci Resolve Studio → https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve
• Cinematic SFX Library → https://freesound.org

Steps

1. Blocking first — Subject on the far third; preserve negative space where the unseen threat "lives."
2. Camera movement — Slow lateral drifts; no sudden dolly‑ins unless motivated.
3. Editorial delay — Hold a beat past comfort; reveal late.
4. Sound bed — Start with room tone; add low‑frequency texture just above audibility.
5. Narrow music — Keep the score narrow; widen stereo only on reveal.
6. Final balance — Ensure dialogue clarity; set LFE to be felt, not heard.

QC Checks

• Unease builds even with low volume.
• The reveal widens both image and sound.
• Shadow detail remains; no crushed blacks.

CTAs

• DaVinci Resolve Studio → https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve
• Cinematic SFX Library → https://freesound.org

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