Better Sound

[Dave Haynie]

As a general rule, you should NEVER use the in-camera mic if you’re trying to get good sound. For weddings, I use multiple off-camera recorders. The lapel mic on the groom is what you want. I usually have at least one shotgun on the ceremony as well, and if the setup permits, I put a digital recorder on the podium, in a plant, etc… something near the ceremony, but in a different direction. Also good to have at least one mic on the PA, or a digital recorder off the PA mixer if possible.

I don’t like the idea of switching… I want all of these things recorded at once. Back in the day, I used MD recorders, these days, I have a couple of digital recorders; one is small enough to clip on to the groom or anyone else I want to mic directly — no worries about cabling or radio. His lapel is often good for micing the bride, too, but not always.

Part of this is maximizing quality. If I have 3-6 different audio positions, I will have better audio for every speaker: bride, groom, cleric, invited guests, singers, anyone who speaks at the ceremony. I started out as a sound guy — I’d really like a lapel mic on every speaker, but that’s not remotely practical.

Part of this is redundancy. I was shooting a wedding back in 2006 in which the PA system failed entirely. I did have a mic on the PA, but that was completely worthless… everything I recorded came in via shotgun mics on my two cameras. I made it work, but it wasn’t the best audio I could have managed.

-Dave

[Pete Cotellese]

Thank you, Dave. I am trying to take my video to another level this year. I still shoot mini dv and edit on Corel on my HP. I definitly will go digital recorder and update my camera to hd and software. I’m glad I found this site. Now, how about the reception for audio: clearer intros, speaches. I still only use camera mic. I was thinking of putting one mic on a mic stand near the speaker and the other channel for my camera. Any input is appreciated.

Thank you,
PeteC