Monday, August 1, 2011

Improving Audio In Video-Capable DSLRs

Digital cameras are so advanced these days most even have the ability to take videos. For people who are not contented with just capturing still images, videos are also a great of making memories last for a lifetime. It's a different experience with videos because you get to watch people as they move and you somehow feel the excitement and other emotions as the event happens right at that moment.

When taking videos, however, the audio aspect should not be taken for granted. This part plays a significant role as well in creating a great video clip apart from the visual aspect. Isn't it that when you hear the sound clearly and not muffled, it makes the experience of watching the videos more fun?

For photo enthusiasts using a DSLR camera, you have every opportunity to use your equipment to take videos with good audio quality. You just need an additional accessory to achieve great sound and this is through the use of a microphone. Some of you may not be fully aware of this but you can actually connect a mic to your DSLR through the mini-jack or 3.5 mm stereo input that is built in to most advanced digital cameras such as the video-capable DSLRs.

You may have to consider using an external microphone as the built-in mics on HD DSLRs do not have the full capability of capturing top quality sound. In addition, the internal mic can pick up other sounds of the camera itself such the lens and its inner workings.

But with an external mic, a camera owner can control the incoming sound volume. Some new models of microphones even have an automatic gain feature that will let you override some audio or noise picked up in certain situations. What makes this camera accessory very beneficial then is the cleaner audio it provides to your videos. You are assured of top quality audio free from noise caused by camera itself.

There are various types of external mics available today on the market. But before you decide to buy this accessory, double check that your DSLR has a stereo input.

Camera owners looking for a compact and lightweight mic can choose the Azden SMX-10 model. It measures 7 inches in length and weighs below 2 ounces. The mic is powered by only one triple A battery and already features a mount and windscreen.

Another type is the PRO 24-CM which can be attached to the camera's hot shoe. It's lightweight at 3.9 ounces and also features a removable windscreen.

The shotgun mic is another option that attaches to the hot-shoe of your camera. It has a foam windshield, a filter for reducing noise, a level control and shock mount. It is powered by a 9V battery.

There are basically three types of mics you can choose from. These are the shotgun which can pick up audio from different directions, the cardioids which captures sound directly in front of the microphone and the lavalier or more popularly known as the lapel mic which is the smallest and can be attached to the clothes of a person.

So the next time you plan to take videos of a very important event, do consider using an external mic to ensure top sound quality.

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