Youtube Creator Academy | Lesson 3 – Recording sound like a PRO

Here is the final Lesson, 3 of 3 in Youtuber’s Creator Academy.

This process starts when you’re selecting your location. If you’re recording outside, things like traffic or wind can make a big difference. Research your locations avoid unpleasant surprises. And if you’re inside, consider the room’s acoustics and noises that electronics or other elements might create.

Good sound can significantly impact how viewers experience your video. Audiences are typically more forgiving of camera and lighting mistakes than they are of poor sound quality and recording.

Aside from the mic that’s built into your camera, there are three main types of mics:

• Shotgun microphones are the most highly directional. They are most readily used with most YouTube formats, including video blogs.

• Lavalier microphones can be pinned onto the subject. They are great for doing interviews or shoots where the subject talks from a distance.

• Boom microphones are often held above the frame of the scene on a long pole. Because of this, they generally require an extra crew member. They are recommended for capturing dialogue among several people or for wide shots that don’t allow for a mic on the speaker.

Ways to improve recording.

There are things you can do to enhance your recording conditions. If you’re inside, try padding your space with sound blankets and foam to cut down on excess echo. Avoid recording near noisy refrigerators and air conditioners, and remember to silence your electronic devices, which could potentially interrupt your recording.

If you’re outside, it might not be possible to prevent all background noise. In this case, it’s super important to choose the right mic, as well as test your mic so that you know you’re getting good audio levels.

Here are a few more tips for recording like a pro:

• Check the connection from your mic to your camera’s audio input. Also confirm if your mic requires a separate power source.

• Keep the mic positioned close to the desired audio source (your mouth when speaking). And project your voice strongly—but don’t yell.

• Have someone monitor the sound while recording (through headphones). If it’s just you, do a test run and play it back to yourself.