Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Ellis
Hi Brittany, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey in sound has been one of steady growth, hard work, and a deep love for storytelling. I started as a client services person at a boutique sound studio, where I was surrounded by creativity and collaboration. Little by little, I took on more responsibility—running remote ADR sessions, helping build out studios, and managing deliverables and dub stage setups. These early experiences taught me the importance of precision and teamwork, laying the groundwork for everything that followed.
My first major leap came when I stepped into the mix tech chair for Westworld Season 1. It was an incredible learning experience, exposing me to the high level of quality and dedication required for top-tier productions. That role gave me confidence and a clear vision of the kind of work I wanted to do.
Soon after, I was hired by Warner Bros. as a mix tech, managing six dub stages. It was the ultimate challenge—fast-paced, high-stakes, and endlessly exciting. I thrived in the energy of having so much responsibility and made it clear to everyone around me that I wanted to mix. My persistence paid off when I was given my first opportunity as a mixer on DC Super Hero Girls, an animated show supervised by Otis Van Osten. That project marked the beginning of my career as a re-recording mixer.
Since then, I’ve been fortunate to work on some incredible projects, including all of the Star Trek TV shows and Monarch: Legacy of Monsters. Along the way, I’ve developed a specialty in mixing FX—a craft that combines creativity and technical precision to bring a story’s world to life. Whether it’s crafting the rumble of a spaceship or the subtle atmosphere of a quiet scene, I’m passionate about using sound to immerse audiences in new dimensions of storytelling.
To anyone starting out, I want to say this: every step counts. Whether you’re running errands or running a session, embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. For me, persistence, passion, and a willingness to take on challenges have been the keys to success. Sound is an art form, and as mixers, we get to bring stories to life in ways that resonate deeply with audiences. It’s a privilege, and I’m excited to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but I think that’s what makes the journey so rewarding. Every challenge has been an opportunity to grow, both personally and professionally. Early on, balancing the technical and creative aspects of sound was a big learning curve. As someone who started in client services, I often felt like I had to prove myself in a world that’s highly competitive and sometimes intimidating. It took persistence and resilience to earn trust and show that I was capable of handling more responsibility.
One of the biggest challenges was navigating the transition from support roles, like being a mix tech, to sitting in the mix chair. I had to overcome self-doubt and constantly advocate for myself, especially in a field where opportunities to step up can feel elusive. When I finally got my first chance to mix, I felt immense pressure to deliver. But those moments of pressure taught me to trust my skills and rely on the knowledge I had built over the years.
Another struggle has been the sheer pace of the industry. Managing six dub stages at Warner Bros. was a thrilling but exhausting challenge. I had to stay sharp, organized, and adaptable, often under tight deadlines. And like many in this industry, I’ve had to learn how to balance the high demands of work with personal well-being—a lesson I’m still perfecting.
Despite these challenges, I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. The obstacles I’ve faced have taught me resilience, humility, and the importance of building a strong support network. For anyone starting out, I’d say: embrace the bumps in the road. They’ll teach you lessons that are just as valuable as your successes.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have over 10 years of experience in the film industry, contributing to acclaimed projects like *Monarch: Legacy of Monsters*, *Star Trek: Prodigy*, *Fairly OddParents*, and more. I’ve collaborated with industry leaders such as Warner Bros., Sony Entertainment, and Formosa on high-profile TV projects and was honored to be featured in *Emmy Magazine* in 2024 to discuss the sound of the iconic *Godzilla* franchise. Being nominated for an Emmy for excellence in sound mixing and editorial work remains one of my proudest achievements.
As a re-recording mixer specializing in FX, I see sound as the heartbeat of cinematic storytelling. Every mix is an opportunity to enhance the emotional core of a scene, and I bring a combination of technical expertise and creative intuition to every project. What sets me apart is my dedication to the craft and my attention to detail. I view the mix as an art form and a performance, one that requires intuition, precision, and an ability to adapt in the moment. I also bring a deep understanding of the technical side of the process, thanks to my background as a mix tech and recordist. This allows me to problem-solve quickly and create a seamless experience for directors and sound teams.
Another aspect that defines my work is my commitment to mentoring others. I believe in lifting up the next generation of sound professionals and sharing what I’ve learned along the way. I love showing how sound can transform a story, whether I’m on the mix stage or collaborating with up-and-coming talent.
Ultimately, I take pride in crafting soundscapes that leave an impact. I want audiences to feel something—whether it’s awe, tension, or connection—and I’m always striving to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sound.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the incredible mentors, colleagues, and collaborators who have guided and supported me along the way.
First and foremost, I have to give credit to my incredible wife, Elizabeth. She has been my rock, talking me through every challenge, helping me transition from the overstimulation of the dub stage to a calm, peaceful evening, and always supporting my dreams and goals without hesitation. Her unwavering belief in me has been a constant source of strength and inspiration.
Two people who stand out as major inspirations are Fred Paragano and Eric Norris. Eric was one of the first to truly believe in my potential and encouraged me to push boundaries and hone my craft. Fred was instrumental in shaping my technical foundation and creative instincts, teaching me how to approach sound not just as a skill but as an art form. Their guidance has been invaluable throughout my career.
I also want to recognize my mix partner, Shaughnessy Hare. Working with Shaughnessy has been a transformative experience—our synergy elevates every project we take on together. Mixing can be high-pressure, but having a partner who shares your vision and passion makes all the difference.
A special mention goes to my previous supervisors, Otis Van Osten, Ben Cook, and Matt Taylor, who taught me so much along the way. They each played a key role in my development, teaching me essential skills and offering opportunities to grow. From technical expertise to creative decision-making, they helped shape me into the professional I am today.
I also want to highlight the amazing team at Warner Bros., including Duke Lim, Todd Grace, and Ed Carr. They believed in my talent and took the time and energy to nurture my mixing skills. Their support and willingness to invest in me were pivotal moments in my career, helping me grow into the mixer I aspired to be.
Beyond these individuals, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with incredible directors, sound designers, composers, and editors who have trusted me to bring their visions to life. Their creativity and teamwork inspire me every day.
Success in this field is never a solo journey, and I’m deeply grateful for the advocates, clients, and teammates who have shaped my career. It’s a privilege to work alongside such talented and passionate people, and I try to carry that same spirit of support and mentorship forward in my own work.
Contact Info:
- Website: ellissounddesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rerecordingmixer/
- Other: https://www.imdb.me/brittanyellis
