Sound is half your film

The break-out-your-wallet option.

Instead of recording the sound directly into the camera (which DOES solve the problem of syncing audio to video), we are going to go to a double-system recording process.

The main component of this is a field recorder. While you might think "I can just use my laptop and my USB audio interface for this and save money", keep in mind that you may be moving around with the recording gear (following the actors), depending upon the scene. It may also be in the woods, with no power sources available.

There are a range of prices for field recorders. Anything from the Zoom H4Essentials ($220) to gear that is thousands of dollars.

Features to consider: Phantom power, powered by batteries, at least 2 Combo input jacks (takes both XLR and quarter inch inputs). The more inputs you have, the more options you have. This covers the recorder.…

We know that sound is important, but how to capture it?

The easiest way is to use the microphone built into the camera (or attach a microphone to the camera).

The issue here is how far away the camera is to the subject. Your audio may not be so great.

The next easiest way is to position your mics closer to the talent.

We have options:

The free option: the cell phone. If it's a part of the scene, this is great! Have the actor record a video, then take that video from them and separate the video from the audio (You won't need the video; the inside of their shirt pocket is not exactly thrilling stuff to watch). You just need the audio track. If it's not a part of the scene, figure out a way to hide it or have it as a set dressing piece.

Welcome! This is about how to capture good audio during production, as well as how to process it during post production.

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