Best solution for filming two actors?

N

neetster

Member
I'm new to sound but filming a short in 2 weeks.

We have two lav mics and a boom and I'm wondering if I should bother putting the lavs on the two main actors and using the boom, or just using the boom by itself? I seem to always struggle with getting good sound.

Also, if I were to invest in an external device to record the sound, what will work with 3 XLR inputs (for all three mics)?
 
I would just use the boom. I never use lavs when I can avoid them, and there's no reason you shouldn't be able to get good sound like that. Make sure to check the scene before shooting for any external noise issues, and instruct your boom op well if he hasn't done the job before.
 
How would you currently handle 2 lavs and boom without an external recorder?

And with regard to what recorder, what budget are you looking at? And do you usually film as a one-man-band crew, or with other people helping?
 
You would use a mixer for the three mics. I would suggest putting the lavs and boom into separate channels for better mixing in post.
 
With two actors... only a boom will do.

Just take realy care of pointing at the right direction (= the speaking person).

When they're like arguing and stuff and crossing dialogues... hold it in the middle...

When they're to far seperated (3 feet for example), do it in different shots.
 
dre83 said:
With two actors... only a boom will do.

Just take realy care of pointing at the right direction (= the speaking person).

When they're like arguing and stuff and crossing dialogues... hold it in the middle...

When they're to far seperated (3 feet for example), do it in different shots.
Click to expand...

Boom handling is a very unique skill, and it does require very specific technique, not to mention the arms of a gorilla.
 
Gohanto said:
How would you currently handle 2 lavs and boom without an external recorder?

And with regard to what recorder, what budget are you looking at? And do you usually film as a one-man-band crew, or with other people helping?
Click to expand...

I will have people helping with sound (but inexperienced people--students who just want to help out).
 
Define "affordable".

Some consider $12,000 on a used Cooper mixer alone reasonable, other people think $200 on all of their production and post audio gear is a lot.
 
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