Sound Basics and Recording Techniques

Audiences are more forgiving of the image than the sound of your video. It is important to select the proper microphone for your recordings. It is always better to use an external microphone than the on-camera mic. We have the option of using a Lavalier and a shotgun mic.

The Lavalier or 'lav' is a small mic that clips on to your subject's clothing. Try to hide the wire. If you are interviewing someone who moves a lot and thus the mic you may have to tape it down. These mics are traditionally used when you interview one person. If you're interviewing more than two use the shotgun mic on the boom.

Shotgun mic or 'boom' is more sensitive than an on-camera mic. They are directional mics and they pick up the sound in the direction that you are pointing it. In an interview situation bring the mic close enough to the person using the boom pole without being in the frame of the shot. The camera person should alert the sound person by pointing at the camera screen or boom if the boom gets in the frame.

These mics are connected to the camera using XLR cables. There may be more than one input on the camera so make sure you switch to the correct input.

Before you start recording here are some considerations and tips:

• Make sure your external mic is properly connected
• Is the external mic power on - most require batteries so make sure they work
• Set your audio levels. Is the level high enough but not in the red?
• If you are interviewing someone, set up all your equipment and then have your subject say a few sentences so you can meter your level and set the audio levels to match the level of their voice.

When shooting watch for the boom or shadow in the shot. The person who is monitoring the sound should wear headphones. If there is a sudden excessive sound the sound person should advise the crew to stop and wait for the sound to pass. If you are shooting an interview indoors these excessive sounds are more obvious. However, if you are shooting outdoors you may want some ambient or background sound of your location.

When shooting indoors, record at least 30 seconds to 1 minute of Room Tone. Ask the crew and talent to be quiet. Outdoors you will record ambient sound - again, ask the crew and talent to remain silent while you're recording ambient sound. These recordings may be used during the editing phase.

Felice Archbold, Digital Pathways Internship Coordinator, came to our class and showed everyone how to create student profiles on our website.

First you need to create a BAVC Gmail. For example if your name is Jonathan Sanchez then your account would be jsanchez.bavc@gmail.com

Try to keep it all lowercase and don't forget the dot between your name and bavc.

Felice and I will be using this email to communicate with you so please check it regularly.

After you have created a gmail account go to the BAVC website and Register to become a member of the BAVC online community.

You will receive an email that you need to confirm to your gmail account.

You are ready to log in to the BAVC site. Once you log in, scroll to the bottom and click on my profile. You can start editing your profile.