TIPS: Placement of microphones

Since microphones are used both in studio and outdoor situations, their placement decides the quality of audio one will be able to record.

• Always point the mic to the source of the sound.
  
• Every mic has a critical distance to get the right audio. Place it too close & the audio will be distorted. Place it too far & you can hardly hear anything. Always monitor the audio using a headphone to decide the correct distance.
• Don't use the built-in-microphone on your camera for interviews. Use them just to record ambience sound.
• Ifyou are using a uni-directional mic, one should keep it close to the mouth.
• When interviewing kids place the mic at their level, not yours!
• Avoid rubbing the mic when holding it. Actually use mic stands or pin the lapel to one’s clothes.
• Use wireless mics if the shot has the talent moving.
  
• If you are using more than one mic place them at a distance where you can avoid phase cancellation. Phase cancellation is when frequencies from one mic cancel out frequencies from another. Check out this link for more tips on miking & audio related issues.
• Record all audio in silent areas, not right in front of a busy road or a huge machine!
• Use windshields and pop filters wherever possible.
• Keep checking the audio levels on your recorder. Don't allow it to shoot beyond the optimum level.
• Always record ambience sound.

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