How to Use Shotgun Mics for TV News
Shotgun microphones are the long, skinny mics attached to the camera. This type of mic is usually plugged into the Audio Channel 2. The shotgun will pick up sound whenever the camera is recording. It will also pick up Channel 2 audio at the same time that you're recording an interview with a mic plugged into Channel 1. Here's how to use shotgun mics for TV news.
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Instructions
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Keep the shotgun microphone plugged into the Audio Channel 2 plug on the back of the camera. It will automatically pick up background noise and natural sound.
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Remove the shotgun mic and hold it closer to the natural sound you're trying to pick up. If you want to capture the sound of the cash register, for example, lay the shotgun mic right in front of the cash register.
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Hold the shotgun microphone up to a speaker if you're trying to get better audio at an event such as a concert or a school board meeting.
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Grab the shotgun microphone for interviews on the fly. If, for instance, you're getting video at a fire scene and the fire chief walks up to give an interview, you can use the shotgun mic to get the sound.
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Plug the shotgun mic into Audio Channel 1 to get interviews. Hold the mic at a decent distance from the interview subject. Don't hold it too close. The mic will pick up the sound just fine.
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Tips & Warnings
Plug the shotgun mic into a wireless battery pack for more mobility.
