TIPS TO GET THE MOST OUT OF AUDIO RECORDINGS

The following tips will help you get the most out of your audio recordings.

    1. Test your equipment before you leave! It's better to find out a microphone isn't working when you’re at home than on location.

    2. Use earphones. Take a pair of earphones with you so you can listen to the sounds you’re capturing.

    3. Get up close. If you’re using a built-in microphone, to get the clearest possible audio and reduce unwanted background noise, get as close as possible to your subject (about three feet away is best if you want to get a good head and shoulders shot). Don’t forget that the microphone will also capture any noise you make.

    4. Use an external microphone. Position the microphone according to its type. Dynamic microphones should be approximately six inches from the sound source, other types will vary. Make sure that any condenser microphones have suitable power and are working. Ideally use stands and/or boom poles where appropriate.

    5. Use pop filters and/or windshields. When recording outside, always use a windshield. You could even make your own furry windshield for the built-in microphone! Use a pop filter for all studio recording.

    6. Commercially available windshields and pop filters vary in price. Windshields can be made from foam or fake fur, available from craft stores (especially useful for your built-in microphone!). Pop filters can be made by stretching nylon tights or stockings over a loop—you could use an embroidery hoop (4-6 inches depending on mic size) or a bent wire coat hanger. You could even use a kitchen sieve! A quick search on the internet will provide all of the DIY information you need.

    7. Use a tripod. This will reduce unwanted handling noise.

    8. Eliminate unnecessary background noise before you start recording. If you don’t, you’re likely to get different background sound with each shot.

    9. Record additional audio. Record relevant background noise to add to your audio tracks. During editing, you can then use these tracks to create continuity between shots.

    10.Audio is 50% of your film! Be aware of the impact of music and sound effects on your video footage. Choose carefully to reflect the feeling and pace of your shots.

    11.Record everything! When recording live performances, make sure you record the entire piece of music or stage dialog. During the editing phase, you can then select your best video shots and lay them against this continuous soundtrack.

    12.Do a trial run to identify any distortion and determine consistent sound levels from your subjects and background sources. Do a test, then play it back on your earphones.

    13.Reduce ambient noise. Close doors and windows and turn off any air conditioning units. If you're recording narration, ideally record in a corner of the room, in an area that is ‘insulated’ with absorbent material of some kind (you can buy special screens or simply use foam, blankets, curtains, carpet, mattresses, even egg boxes!).