Microphone Tips For Video Recording

Few things lead to stopping a video as quickly as poor audio quality. For this reason, all types of the video must be considered for good sound quality, whether it is a screencast, a marketing video or a feature film. However, when recording with mobile devices, a laptop or simple cameras, the integrated microphones often record many background noises, and the overall quality is suboptimal. Therefore, it is advisable to record your audio separately from the video in many cases.

We now discuss this in the context of the “Real-World” video, i.e. recordings such as interviews, events and image films.

Choosing The Right Microphone

This is the first important decision: Which microphone should I record? Each microphone has a characteristic recording mode and a specific connection structure. The situation is crucial, which microphone is optimal. If you want to record an individual interview, I recommend a Lavalier or “Lav” microphone. This is available in wired and wireless variants.

This model is more expensive, but it is worth every penny with frequent use. The microphones can be easily connected to the camera or the audio recorder, and only the audio is recorded in the immediate vicinity of the microphone. As they are wireless, they offer a lot of movement and recording space.

To record a discussion of several people, I recommend a directional microphone. But beware: directional microphones are uni-directional; this means you have to tune the microphone precisely to the sound you want to record.

Another alternative is to record with a conventional kidney microphone. Such microphones are suitable for reporting (as they do television reporters) or stage recordings.

Selecting An Audio Recorder

They have opted for a microphone and need an audio recorder. If you can save money on camera purchases, spend a little more money on your audio recorder. Keep in mind that audio recorders usually record on SD cards. A few gigabytes should already have these.

In addition, you must have the correct connection cable. Most audio recorders use 3.5mm latches, mini latches, XLR or 1/4″ audio connectors; some also have built-in microphones. Note that the recorder also supports your microphone.

The Audio Recording

We are ready to record! The “gossip method” is a good trick to make the later synchronization as easy as possible. In principle, we create a visible rash in the audio, which can also be seen in the camera video, like the “claps” when recording movie scenes.

It can be very time consuming to record multiple clips in a row and then sync them in the editor. But there is software that helps a lot. I have often used Red Giant’s Plural Eyes, and this works well if you have a lot of clips that need to be synced.

Also Read: 3 Typical Video Errors That Can Be Easily Corrected After Recording