When filming and recording someone's voice is essential to the quality of your final video, utilizing your camera's inbuilt microphone or even a shotgun mike may not be the greatest option. In situations when you wish to record a subject's voice, such as public speaking or talking interviews, you should consider using a clip on wireless microphone. However, it is just the first step to get clear audio. And we will tell you the tips to use it for better audio.
1. Mount clip on microphone in place: Two tips to help
When it comes to connecting a wireless lavalier microphone to the talent, there are three options: clip, adhesive, or strap. Your choice is influenced by the sort of production, the quantity of allowable visibility, wardrobe constraints, and feasible mounting places.
The sternum is a desirable position for attaching the microphone because it offers a nice balance between closeness and distance from the target sound. Experiment with different locations, such as mounting towards or away from the sound source, and pay attention to how the sound changes as a consequence.
Use alligator clips
Attach the lavalier microphone to the alligator clip. Just press on a piece of metal wire and insert the mic through. And then release it so that the piece of wire holds it in place. For better output, it is no recommended to leave it as a straight cable. You are advised to grab a little loop of cable and put it inside the alligator clip so that when you let go there's little bit of cable dangling down here. It acts like a shock absorber. If anything jerks on the cable, it doesn't talk directly on the lavalier microphone to give you some weird noises.
Use straps and tape
Lav-Strap is also a choice. It is a strap and lavalier housing device that can be worn around the talent's upper torso. It is available in a range of sizes and can accommodate clip on wireless microphone housed in various windscreens and sleeves.
Engineers like Moleskin tape because of its strong stickiness and felt-covered one side. It is safe to use on skin and will last in most situations. Medical tape is an additional alternative. Both tapes are not impervious to heat and perspiration, but they can withstand a good amount. Also, be cautious while using them on a hairy chest.
2. Manage cable to avoid noise caused by cable snugs
Whether you use the clip on wireless microphone for iPhone or computer, the cable tension must be addressed so that it does not catch or tug on the mic capsule. To relieve strain and secure the cable, you can use tape and tuck it below the Lav-Strap, or use specific cable management clips.
Avoid cable snags that pull the capsule or generate vibrating cable noise, as well as movement that causes it to brush against clothes.
The broadcast loop is a well-known sight, with the microphone hooked to the clip and the wire looped back on the clip. Hide half of the cable loop behind the piece of clothing, leaving the other half visible near the capsule. To further minimize cable stress, a second loop can be constructed and taped.
3. Locate the clip on wireless microphone system according to shooting requirements
The set, screenplay, and sequences will all have an affect on where and how you place your microphone.
If you take shootings of low mobility, average visibility, and average wardrobes
A typical talk show's clothing will be rather predictable, with shirts, suits, and dresses being the standard. You will be able to run your mic around and connect it to a variety of collars and straps when you use the clip on microphone for interviews or podcasting. Furthermore, you won't have to worry about the talents performing dangerous feats.
If the filmmaking requires high mobility, low visibility, and intricate clothing
Because of the dynamic, heated, and intricate shooting setups, your microphone placement must be both secure and discreet in these circumstances.
In the case that you cannot connect the clip on wireless microphone to any garment, you can still use a strap or tape. A frequent approach is to cut two strips of mole skin, one smaller than the other, and stick one to the subject, place the microphone on top, then adhere the second strip on top of the microphone and existing strip, resulting in a moleskin mic sandwich.
This is also an excellent opportunity to utilize a Lav-Strap because it is totally concealed beneath the talent's clothing and can be anticipated to remain motionless during high-energy times.
4. Minimize noise with windscreens
When working with wireless microphone that clips on shirt, wind and fabric noise are your adversaries. The aforementioned approaches demonstrated how to limit mic movement through isolation and creative attachment. And the products listed below provide you more options for resolving these problems. And pay attention, Silky clothing are more likely to make noise than cotton textiles.
Fuzzy windscreens are used to protect the wireless lapel clip on microphone against wind and to reduce the sound of garments rubbing against it. Their look and color variation make them perfect for concealment; reducing their size and roundness is another clever method to make them even less noticeable.
The traditional windshield is always an option for reducing wind and contact sound, but it is restricted in color and design. These two windscreens both work well at mitigating the impacts of wind and clothes.
In general, microphone company will include windscreen in the package, so you can check the package list to see if it is needed to buy extra one.
Conclusion
Practice, like any other technique, makes perfect. Try to get to know your clip on wireless microphone and experiment with different positions and ranges of motion. What is the difference between medical tape and moleskin in terms of comfort and adhesion? What are the very minimal quantities you can get away with? All of these questions are addressed through experience, which will aid in the development of your unique style.