Hierarchy of Mic Techniques

Method to the Madness

The Basic Hierarchy

Boom Plant Mic Lavalier (body worn) Wireless Lavalier (radio mic)

Overhead Boom

Most natural dialogue and SFX Natural perspective Mic placement is critical Be aggressive Use mic angle and distance to balance

actors

Boom from below

Slightly more bass Frame lines are difficult due to zooming

Plant Mics

Mics planted in place Can be hidden outside of frame or actually in

the shot Can be any mic: shotgun, lavalier Can be condenser, ENG, or dynamic Use EQ so as to match sound of Boom Mic

Lavalier Mics

Fixed perspective Problems: clothing noise, body noise Limitations of movement due to cable Time consuming to rig Intrusive to rig Difficult to mix multiple mics

Wireless Microphones

All the problems of lavaliers Add problems of RF interference Uses lots of batteries Careful antenna placement Expensive to rent