While many filmmakers understand how crucial good audio is to a film’s success, it remains one of the most ignored components of the video-making process. This is unfortunate, as poor audio quality can jeopardize the functionality of all of the other elements on which you’ve been working so diligently. At the end of the day, none of this matters if the audio quality is bad.
Whether it’s distracting ambient sounds (like wind or passing vehicles) or poor dialogue recording, these issues have a significant impact on the whole viewing experience and must be addressed immediately for a film project to succeed.
Hence, for individuals interested in starting their own video production company or DSLR filmmakers looking to improve their audio performance, here are a few essential tips to get you started.
Tip #1. Pay closer attention to any unnecessary sounds when filming using your ears.
While you have plenty to focus on when you’re behind the camera, paying close attention to what’s going on audibly can be very beneficial. Just listen; is there traffic going in the distance? Is there a hum coming from the ventilation system? After spending a few moments checking where you will be shooting, identifying and resolving an audio issue is far easier than attempting to do so in the area.
Tip #2. Do not use the built-in microphone on your camera as your primary audio source.
This one is frequently repeated, but for valid reasons. The built-in microphone on your camera is not optimal for recording high-quality audio. It is susceptible to the inherent noise of your camera and typically produces subpar results.
Tip #3. Equip yourself with the proper tools for the task
If you’re going to purchase, borrow, or rent audio equipment, it’s critical to choose the correct tools to do the job. You can install shotgun mics on your camera or off-camera. On the other hand, if you’re recording an interview or a scene with quiet dialogue, a shotgun mic may pick up too much ambient noise, creating a boomy conversation that sounds “far away.” In this case, a lavalier system or a handheld mic will suffice.
A handheld digital recorder is another gadget that’s worth its weight in audio gold. There are plenty of alternatives available, ranging from low-memory, flash-based recorders to SD-card camcorders with a variety of built-in microphones.
Tip #4. Establish a reference track.
Even if you’re not using the built-in microphone on your camera, you can still take advantage of its sound recording features. Some portable digital recorders include a line-level output that may be connected to your camera’s microphone input (through a line-to-mic attenuator cable), allowing you to record audio on both devices at the same time. This generates a reference track, making post-production considerably easier when matching the higher-quality audio from the recorder.
Final Thoughts
When creating a video of exceptional production quality, it is critical to give equal attention to the audio requirements as to its visual ones. If you can be one of the rare micro-budget filmmakers that puts sound first, you will undoubtedly reap the rewards of going the extra mile.
Video production might be overwhelming for people who are unfamiliar with it. At Brandefy, we take care of the workload for you. Our objective is to teach without being intimidating. As a video production company, Brandefy takes pride in utilizing cutting-edge technology, trends, gadgets, and strategies in its productions.
