There are several ways to film an interview: outside or indoors, sitting or standing, scheduled or impromptu, video or audio-only, and so on. And using shotgun mic for interviews is a good way to get high-quality audio when capturing dialogue. Its directional polar pattern provides filmmakers with a great deal of control over the sounds they record. Read on to get the following information.
- What are the pros & cons of using lavalier or shotgun mic for interviews?
- What shotgun mics do you need for conducting interviews?
- How to place it to get better audio?
Lavalier VS shotgun mic for interviews: What are the pros and cons?
When it comes to recording high-quality sound on set, both lavalier and shotgun microphones have their advantages and disadvantages, whether you need to record an interview for a commercial project or documentary or simply want to shoot another dialogue scene for your short or feature film.
Pros of using lav mic for interviews
The primary advantage is that you can put it considerably closer to the person being recorded. This is a necessary condition for capturing clear and high-quality sound. Furthermore, during filming, the interviewee might move about freely with a wireless mic connected to his/her clothes. It is great for shooting walk-and-talk scenarios or instructional films with a small and compact team when working under tight deadlines.
Cons of using lav mic
The primary disadvantage of utilizing a wireless lavalier mic is the risk of wireless interference, which might disrupt your recording, especially if you're shooting in a crowded metropolitan area. Also, remember that most lav mics are omnidirectional, which means that even if you install it as near to your subject as feasible, you may still pick up distracting and undesirable background or clothing rustling sounds.
Pros of using shotgun mic for interviews
Due to its more accurate pick-up pattern, audio interview shotgun mic excels in sound recording. When the interviewee isn't moving around too much, or you have a specialized boom mic operator who can take care of the sound recording along the way, it is a wonderful option.
Another benefit is that you don't have to wire up everyone as you would with a lavalier mic. As a result, it is an excellent choice for a large-group interview. Furthermore, while filming outside with boom shotgun microphones, you have a plethora of wind control choices.
Cons of doing an interview with a shotgun mic
Although the narrow pickup pattern is effective at reducing unwanted noise, it will not function like a telephoto zoom lens. In other words, if the person is far away from the camera, a shotgun mic may not capture enough audio.
Another disadvantage is that mounting one on a boom to physically go closer to the subject requires the assistance of another person or the use of an additional mount.
How many shotgun mics do I need for an interview and what to use?
Here are some tips for you.
Use two identical microphones
This is the most critical action you can take. You want two identical microphones rather than one shotgun and one lavalier. You will go insane attempting to mix two distinct sound characteristics in post processing if you utilize two separate microphones.
Use cardioid or super-cardioid shotgun mic
When individuals are moving about, cardioid or super-cardioid microphones are the most accommodating. When used up close, you won't notice the pop if you utilize a decent windshield. The SYNCO D30, for example, is a supercardioid shotgun mic that you can use for recording interviews. It offers a furry windshield and a shock mount in the package. This helps to reduce to noise caused by wind and vibration, making it the best shotgun mic for outdoor interviews. Besides, it features gain control, low cut, and an overdrive protection system to give you much control over the audio.
What is the best placement of a shotgun mic in interview?
Setting up shotgun mic for interview properly is also important for the output. Below are some placement methods that you can use.
Optimal shotgun mic placement: Place it as close to the interviewee as feasible while keeping it out of the frame. And positioning it a few feet above your subject will produce the best sound. The camera may be placed at any distance, but the microphone will remain near enough to the interviewer and interviewee to hear dialog well.
Mic angle: Position the overhead shotgun mic in front of the interviewee, aiming down towards the subject's mouth.
Alternative placement: If you can't place the shotgun mic overhead (insufficient ceiling space, too windy, forgot the stand, etc.), place it in front of and beneath the interviewee's face.
Before the interview, scout the location: Take note of the noises in the room. Is the volume too high? Can you control it? Can you make it quieter by closing the door or windows? Choose another room if the current one is insufficient for audio recording.