How to Set Up a Lavalier Microphone

Lavalier mics are wonderful tools that can provide all the recording and amplification benefits of a traditional microphone while remaining hidden. These are helpful in interview situations, documentaries, reality television and hidden camera types of situations.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Lavalier mircophone
• Video camera
• Microphone receiver
• Headphones

1. Clip the microphone to the subject's clothing, preferably the lapel of a coat, somewhere along the neckline. Point the mic upward toward the subject's mouth. Try to hide the mic but don't allow anything to block the mic's screen.

2. String the attached transmitter down the subject's body. Attach the transmitter by clipping it to the back of the subject's pants, skirt or other garment.

3. Press the power button to turn the transmitter on. It's screen should light up and display a channel. Make sure it is set to the correct channel. If not, set it as needed.

4. Plug the receiver into the camera. Press the power button to turn it on. Again, the screen should light up and display a channel. Make sure it's the same channel as the transmitter.

5. Put the headphones on and plug them into the camera or audio mixer. Have your subject speak. Adjust the audio input levels on the camera or mixer as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Hide the mic on the subject's clothes, as close to their mouth as possible without being noticeable.
• Don't allow the mic to tip down away from the subject's mouth.