mic/sound, learning the basics, & flying

[ann]

I am new, new, new at this and am wondering about working with sound for basic documentary interviews conducted mostly in controlled situations. I've got an Azden sgm-2x shotgun mic and am wondering if this will work? Or should I get a lav? If so what kind is ideal? And what kind should I get if I'm on a tight budget? Will I need anything else? I've heard that getting the sound right is crucial and I know absolutely nothing about it . .. But, I don't have a lot of time to get my bearings because one of my interview subjects is in poor health, so I've made plans to fly out to interview her in mid June.

During that same trip, I also may film a memorial service that will be held outdoors--and perhaps conduct one or two interviews outdoors as well. Are there any do's and don'ts that I should know about in order to maximize the chance that I will get usable footage with usable sound?

All of this this leads to the question I wish I could ask first (and had more time to answer for myself before my first interview). Where can I go, in addition to these forums, to start learning how to use my DVX100B from the ground up? I've heard about Barry Green's book for the DVX--but am not sure where I can buy it . . . I've also heard about a (kind of expensive) workshop called the DV Revolution, run by someone named Guy Cochran, and am wondering if anyone knows anything about it? I'm thinking that, even if it's worth the money, that I should probably wait on something like this until I've got some more knowledge under my belt? . . . But, I really don't know . . .

Also, how do you all travel with this camera? I'm flying United and they won't let me take the camera on the plane due to airline security. Plus, I can't put locks on it (I've been looking for TSA locks that are the right size and haven't found any yet). And, to top it all off, United doesn't insure camera equipment for more than their $2,000 max. I have a Pelican case that I'm thinking about using, but I'm not sure I'm going to feel all that safe about it if it's unlocked and the equipment is not insured. Of course, none of this is probably news to you all . . . so I'm wondering what you do when you fly?

Thanks to anyone who is willing to lend a hand with this. I'm a bit scared, but excited too, about having to jump into this head first in three weeks. At the same time, I also want to figure out how to really learn the basics step by step over time.


Ann

 

[kenackr]

Ann,

There are so many questions you ask that it's hard to answer all of them completely, but here are some pointers.

Always use a wired mic in the field it at all possible - refrain from using the onboard mic unless you have nothing else. My recomendation would be to get a wired country gentlemen lav for interview work or another decent lav. ALL MICROPHONES ARE NOT THE SAME. Please seach in the audio forum here for many excellent posts for those just starting out.

As always, better equipment will produce better results. It's one thing if these are for home use, it's another if you intend to try to make money with them. You have a nice camera, putting amature sound with it willl not make a saleable product.

Barry's book is the best thing you can get your hands on. If you bought yours new you should have a rebate coming that may include the book, but it may not come in time for your trip. In that case you can buy one direct from Barry. At the top of the general forums here on DVX user there is one forum section where you can find how to contact him and purchase the book.

Outdoor sound can be a whole different ball game if you want to capture the on-site ambient sound of the memorial (including speakers). In that case, put your shotgun on a stand and point it at the speaker hopefully within 4 ' of their mouth. Have the mic pointing up towards the mouth to keep it just out of the frame or at least not covering the face of the speaker. To capture any other ambient sound you will have to use additional mics specific to the source (music, overflights, 21 gun salute, etc) Any outdoor interviews should again use the wired lav.

These are things you must practice doing (many times) long before you ever get on the plane, so you are comfortable doing it for real.

On the one hand, it's not rocket science, on the other, it does take basic knowledge of many things including sound, lighting, camera operation, composition, editing, etc, etc. to make really excellent works. It usually doesn't happen on the first try or even the third. Get the book, read and search these forums, and go out shoot your buns off before you go.

It you are prevented from taking it on the plane. go get some homeowners or renters insurance that will cover loss of the camera and other gear. I have a complete replacement policy with AAA that covers all problems including "mysterious" dissapearance. Do put the cam in the pelican and get the tsa locks to fit.

Other than that , practice, practice, practice and have fun.

Ken

 

[ann]

Hi Ken,

Thanks so much for your message. You probably figured out that I didn't even know where to start . . . and your post really helped me.

I've checked out the other forums, especially the audio boards, several times and have started working, working, working to nail down as much as I can asap--but I've got to admit, I'm more than a little overwhelmed with it all . . . I figure, though, that I've got to start somewhere! I just hope I can get it together fast enough to get something half way decent in June . . . (!) But, I'm a little worried since I don't have the time, budget, or know-how right now to handle things like mixers, headphones, etc. (haven't read that this stuff is crucial for things like controlled interviews--but on the other hand it also sounds like these are part of a basic sound package . . . am sure more reading will help me get my bearings, though ).

So thanks again for everything (including the insurance tip!)!

Ann