ABSTRACT
Recording audio, especially on location, is quite possibly one of the biggest challenges facing media creators. This chapter outlines some potential audio hazards and how to go about out trying to solve them. Too much ambient noise is a common problem when shooting outside and is sometimes beyond a filmmaker’s control. A typical problem when shooting on location in a building is when a building’s air conditioning and heating kicks in and turns off. Computers are notorious for their noise and are just as offensive when recording audio. Ground loops are a common problem with regard to equipment on location. The problem mainly occurs when using pro equipment with consumer-level equipment. Video monitors, like other CRTs such as computer monitors and TVs, emit a carrier tone that can be heard and unintentionally captured. A high-quality mic mounting system, boom, zeppelin and windsock is essential, especially when recording outdoors.
