Getting Good Sound
You have two options for recording sound: record it along with the video through the camera or record it on a separate audio recording device
and then you will need to combine the audio/video in your editing software.
and then you will need to combine the audio/video in your editing software.
Recording In the Camera
Of course your DSLR camera has a built in microphone that will work just fine when you are running and gunning. It will pick up everything
around it so you can capture the natural sounds from your scene. Just try to be as quiet as possible when you are behind the camera recording. If you are recording dialog then you might want to improve the quality of your audio by using an external microphone.
around it so you can capture the natural sounds from your scene. Just try to be as quiet as possible when you are behind the camera recording. If you are recording dialog then you might want to improve the quality of your audio by using an external microphone.
Magic Lantern
The audio functionality that the Magic Lantern firmware provides Canon T2i was the number one reason that we took the risk to install this. It allows you to disable the AGC, monitor your audio through the USB cable and some
adapters, gives you audio meters and allows you to control the gain in a variety of ways.
To read more about Magic Lantern on their Wiki page.
adapters, gives you audio meters and allows you to control the gain in a variety of ways.
To read more about Magic Lantern on their Wiki page.
On Camera Microphone
The least expensive and most convenient external microphone option is going to be a microphone that mounts to the shoe of your camera. These microphones are fairly directional so they will help to eliminate unwanted sound from the sides and back. Look for one that has a built in cable with a 3.5 mm connector. Most of these types of microphones will require power so look for one that will uses a standard battery type and if possible comes with an indicator light. I made the mistake of purchasing the Audio-Technical Pro-CM24. The signal is too weak and it uses a little watch battery so I have to run down to Radio Shack when I want to replace it.
Recommendation: Rode VideoMic Pro Compact Shotgun Microphone ~$230
A good microphone that will mount to the shoe of your camera can really help to improve the audio you record. This runs on a 9 volt battery.
*B & H In Depth Article: On Camera Microphones for DSLR Video
Cheaper Option: Opteka VM 100 ~$80
Recommendation: Rode VideoMic Pro Compact Shotgun Microphone ~$230
A good microphone that will mount to the shoe of your camera can really help to improve the audio you record. This runs on a 9 volt battery.
*B & H In Depth Article: On Camera Microphones for DSLR Video
Cheaper Option: Opteka VM 100 ~$80
Audio Adapter
If you want to connect professional microphones that use XLR adapters or require phantom then you will need some type of audio interface between your camera and the microphone. There are a number of manufactures that offer this type of device. We got the Beachtek DXA-SLR because it is designed for this specific type of camera. I really like the way that it connect with the camera and the fact that it runs on a 9 volt battery to provide the phantom power but we have
to turn the volume all the way up to get a strong enough signal for the camera. The Zoom H4n external audio recorder below is another option to research.
Recommendation: Beachtek DXA-SLR Pro DSLR Audio Adapter ~$400
*Interesting article on another adapter:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/indepth/audio/hands-reviews/new-sound-devices-mixpre-d-camera-sound-and-post
to turn the volume all the way up to get a strong enough signal for the camera. The Zoom H4n external audio recorder below is another option to research.
Recommendation: Beachtek DXA-SLR Pro DSLR Audio Adapter ~$400
*Interesting article on another adapter:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/indepth/audio/hands-reviews/new-sound-devices-mixpre-d-camera-sound-and-post
Separate AudioFilm cameras don’t record audio so in the film industry, recording the audio track to a separate device and then combining them is the normal work flow. Therefore, this approach is an excellent learning opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in this industry.
Better audio recording tips for DSLR filming. - DSLR Film NOOB |
External Audio Recorders
The Zoom H4n is a great option for both recording a secondary sound track or as an audio interface for your DSLR. It comes with excellent built-in X/Y microphones for recording stereo sound or two XLR ports for professional microphones. The real beauty of this system is that you can record on the H4n and send a signal to your camera through a 3.5mm cable. So whether you need to record a separate audio track or you just want to connect professional microphones to your camera this device has you covered.
Recommendation: Samson Zoom H4n $280
http://www.samsontech.com/zoom
*B&H In Depth Article: On Camera Microphones for DSLR Video
Cheaper Option: Tascam DR-05 ~$90 (only 1/8inch inputs)
Shoe Mount ~$10 | Wind Screen ~$15
Recommendation: Samson Zoom H4n $280
http://www.samsontech.com/zoom
*B&H In Depth Article: On Camera Microphones for DSLR Video
Cheaper Option: Tascam DR-05 ~$90 (only 1/8inch inputs)
Shoe Mount ~$10 | Wind Screen ~$15
Special Adapter Cable
The Sescom DSLR-AGCY AGC-Disable Y-Splitter Cable is designed specifically for use with the Canon 7D and Canon T2i DSLR cameras. More than just a Y cable, the DSLR-AGCY is used to "trick" the 7D and T2i into continuously disabling its AGC (Audio Gain Control) function and allow for an uninterrupted microphone signal.
Sescom DSLR-AGCY AGC-Disable Y-Splitter Cable for Canon 7D and Canon T2i $28
http://www.adorama.com/SEAGCY.html
Sescom DSLR-AGCY AGC-Disable Y-Splitter Cable for Canon 7D and Canon T2i $28
http://www.adorama.com/SEAGCY.html
Software
PluralEyes by Singular Software. PluralEyes saves hours in post-production for "dual- system audio" or multi-take workflows. It automatically synchronizes all your audio and video clips without the need for time code, clappers or any special preparation.
http://www.singularsoftware.com/pluraleyes.html
http://www.singularsoftware.com/pluraleyes.html
Additional Learning
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Audio Essentials for DSLR VideoRuntime : 00:17:57
Learn how to shoot better quality video by recording better audio in the field. Discover which microphones, tools, and techniques are best for shooting events or interview footage with your DSLR camera. Find out how to synch your audio and video in Adobe Premiere Pro as well as edit or remove background noise. |
Joe Dockery | [email protected] | 425-831-8126
Mount Si High School | CTE Digital Media Teacher
Mount Si High School | CTE Digital Media Teacher