. Filmmakers & Their Sound: Microphones Different types of filmmaking microphones Microphones Microphones are an important part of any filmmaker’s toolbox. Unfortunately, sound is often an afterthought for filmmakers, especially if they haven’t completed at least one production before. You don’t realize the impact of poor sound until you are forced to deal with it or listen to it for the first time. Fortunately, most filmmakers take more interest in sound control starting with their second production. You don’t need to make too many heavy investments in add-ons for your camera to create a movie or documentary. However, we believe that basic investments such as lenses, filters and recording devices will pay for themselves many times over. If you are going to buy anything for your video or film camera we would highly recommend buying a microphone so that you don’t have to use your “in-camera” microphone. Your in-camera mic can be a lifesaver if you’re the only one operating the camera and can help with quick setups and provide you with an opportunity to capture footage quickly on documentary films. However, they have many limitations at the same time. There are 3 major problems with in-camera mics. They often pick up camera sound which becomes a noticeable “noise” in the background. They also pick up sounds of your hands moving around on the camera, the pressing of buttons and so on. This noise can be difficult to remove in post production. Secondly, in-camera mics often record in stereo instead of mono. Stereo is often good for shooting ambient noise. You may also like the sound of stereo sound. However, most professional productions record dialog in “mono”. Therefore if possible you might want to use a mono mic when recording dialogue sequences. The third major concern has to do with the limitations of the hardware on cameras. They usually only come with a “mini phone jack”. Thankfully this enables you to plug in exterior microphones but it’s not compatible with higher end, more professional XLR cables. Continue Below... Film Sound: Stereo vs. Mono Good Microphones for Filmmakers Microphone Types Choosing the Right Microphone       .

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