Thom Pringle is a Naarm/Melbourne-based sound designer and artist whose creative journey over the past decade has been defined by growth, exploration, and a unique approach to the art of sound. With a versatile portfolio that spans commercial advertising, documentary filmmaking, and experimental sound design, Thom has established himself as a distinctive voice in the sonic landscape.
Originally from Queensland, Australia, Thom’s early years were deeply influenced by Brisbane’s dynamic DIY music scene. Immersed in a mix of punk, noise, indie rock, political folk, and experimental sound, he cultivated a deep appreciation for the power and potential of sound.
Thom’s path to sound design for film was shaped by his years of exploration with synthesizers, computer-based sound manipulation, and field recording, alongside various roles in the film industry. His work seamlessly blends technical skill with creative artistry, resulting in captivating sonic narratives that push boundaries while serving the story.
Today, Thom continues to thrive in the commercial film world, skillfully balancing his professional projects with artistic ventures that reflect his passion for sound and storytelling.
We can’t thank Thom enough for sharing his invaluable insights and experiences with our audience.
IMAGE: THOM PRINGLE
Your work spans everything from skate edits to high-profile commercial campaigns. What’s your process for tailoring sound design to such diverse projects?
Working on a wide variety of projects can be challenging, but I approach each one with the same mindset: understanding the goals, expectations, and brief, while striving to add something unique or unexpected.
The variety keeps things exciting—whether it’s a hyper-clean Ford car campaign requiring precise on-set sound tweaks, the gritty and raw feel of INVINCIBL3 by Riley Blakeway, or a highly dramatized, intense piece, each project presents its own unique challenges.
I’ve always been fascinated by the range of sounds—from music and nature to electromagnetic recordings and purely digital creations with synthesizers. Growing up, I was exposed to various music genres and live performances, which deeply shaped my appreciation for sound. That foundation, combined with inspiration from advertising, documentaries, and fiction films, allows me to adapt my approach to each project.
Ultimately, I keep an open mind and strive to do my best, regardless of the style or scope. There’s always something special to focus on, and that passion drives me to create meaningful work.
With a portfolio that includes both artistic experimentation and commercial advertising, how do you balance creative expression with meeting client expectations?
Balancing creative expression with client expectations starts with asking the right questions early in the process. Engaging with the creative team at the outset helps determine how far they’re willing to push boundaries and how much experimentation…