What minimal sound package would you suggest for doing a
wedding?
Event videography is obviously different from theatrical production.
To begin with, make sure that all of your camcorders (primary and backup) are
equipped to accept XLR mic inputs. You may need to use an audio adapter box with
camcorders that only offer a stereo mini mic input.
Three mics that are essential include a decent short shotgun, a good quality
wireless, and a handheld. In addition, you will need an extra mic for a small
audio recorder (or spare camcorder).
If your camcorder has XLR inputs with 48vPhantom powering, my choice for
shotgun would be an AT4073a.
If the budget is tight, and your camcorder (with adapter box) does not
support Phantom powering, then go with a decent ENG shotgun such as the AT835b.
The wireless should be UHF diversity and capable of good distance. It should
also allow you to change channels in order to get around local interference. We
suggest the Samson UM32 or the Audio Technica ATW-U101.
Choose a lavalier on the wireless that offers strong reach and pickup. You
want to be able to eavesdrop on entire conversations, not just the single voice
of the person wearing it.
The handheld mic could be the Shure VP64AL dynamic omni, or the Audio
Technica ATM29 dynamic cardioid. Both are very impressive broadcast microphones.
Add a customized mic flag with your company's and the client's logos proudly
displayed!
For the ceremony, deploy the wireless on one of the three principals (bride,
groom, clergy). Or hide the mic in the center to pick up all three voices.
Record the wireless onto one channel of your camera, and use the shogun on
the second. Do not mount the shotgun onto the camera at this point, in case you
need to pan around to shoot various cut-aways. Keep the mic pointed at the best
or main source of sound.
For protection, you should also rig an extra mic and record the audio of the
ceremony onto the second camera or a small audio recorder (minidisk, MP3, etc.)
If you lose a few seconds of picture during the ceremony, you can always edit
in some neutral cut-aways or close-ups to cover, so long as you still have the
important audio!
During the reception, use the handheld mic (with flag) for guest interviews.
It will hold back all the background noise and music!
The shotgun mic will cover the general activities. The wireless will allow
you to follow around a family VIP as they greet guests, etc.
Use the audio recorder (or spare camcorder) to record the band performing
entire songs. That allows you to create a smooth montage of dancing without the
music cutting in and out every few seconds when the shots change!
Most importantly, never forget to use professional headphones and to always
listen to what you are recording.
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