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GETTING GREAT
SOUNDING SOUND
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The previous couple of pages were
a layman's guide to sound recording on location.
As with all other aspects of film
and television programme making, there's much, much more.
And most of that learning can
only be done by experience. On location in the cold and rain.
And, just occasionally, in the warm sunshine by the side of a
swimming pool.
AT THE START OF THE SHOOT
| PLUGGERY: |
Make sure all connections
are secure and that not too much cable is dangling. |
| POWER: |
Switch on the mixer. Check that all batteries
are healthy. |
| ALIGNMENT: |
Send tone. Adjust the master gain control for
zero level. |
| LIAISE: |
Check, or ask the cameraman to check, that the
camera is also reading zero level. Remember it should be -12
for digital cameras. |
BEFORE EACH SHOT
| POSITION: |
Find the right position for the microphone.
It should be pointing to the mouth of the speaker and as near
as possible. Make sure you aren't causing shadows. Put the
mic right into frame then look at the cameraman. He will wave
until you're just out of shot. |
| REHEARSAL: |
Now is the time to get level. Whilst holding
the microphone in the same place, check that the meter is swinging
healthily. Check with your ears as well. Moving the microphone
just a couple of inches might completely eliminate the buzz
from that light. |
DURING THE SHOT
| WATCH: |
With your three eyes watch the performer(s),
the meter and the cameraman! But if the level isn't correct,
don't adjust it now. If it's far out, adjust after the shot
and ask for another take. Watch the cameraman in case you're
dipping into shot. |
| LISTEN: |
Listen to quality as
well as quantity. |
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