One of the most intimate processes in creating content for publication is the art of attaching a lavalier microphone to talent. Putting a microphone on talent is not simply attaching a lavalier microphone to someone’s chest and walking away. It involves getting into talent’s personal space and should not be taken lightly. To help break it down is Thomas Popp, creator of Video Mantis, in our How to Wire Talent Masterclass.
What is a Lavalier Microphone?
A lavalier microphone is a sub-miniature microphone that can be placed on talent, as plant microphones won’t capture the sound as intended, and other normal-sized microphones are just too big. Lavaliers have many different names (lav, lapel mic, clip mic, body mic, collar mic, neck mic, personal mic, just to name a few). They are commonly used in film and narrative productions, sports broadcasts, reality shows, vlogging, and more.
How do I use a Lavalier?
A Lavalier Microphone is pretty simple to use in terms of sound concept: put it in the right place to get the best sound. We will go over the anatomy of a lavalier and how it is the most important part of the recording chain. Then, we will get into basic principles that will help you connect a lavalier with ease.
Before you can attach a microphone to an actor or their wardrobe, you need to set up the lavalier microphone so it can attach easily. This involves using various expendables which are available at your local Production Sound Retail Location. There are different types of adhesive tapes as well as rubber mounts and microphone clips that make mounting lavaliers easy. There are also transmitter wraps that can attach the wireless pack practically anywhere on the body.
Set Etiquette
Set etiquette is another big part of this course. It is not enough to just put a wire on an actor. You need to learn how to wire unobtrusively and in a way that caters to the temperament of your talent. Depending on the production, you may need to wire different actors quickly or even child actors. We show you how to approach the set with the right mindset and set etiquette so that you start off clear and confident. Everything you need to level up your micing technique is in here.
Who Is This Class For?
This class is for you, the person who wants to be mentally prepared well before the day of the shoot. Don’t second-guess the night before a shoot about how you will mic the talent’s wardrobe. Instead, know your options, know what is expected, and be aware of the tools to use to make your life easier. Walk into your job fully aware and confident that you can tackle any talent, any wardrobe, and get great sound.
How to Wire Talent Masterclass
This How to Wire Talent Masterclass was filmed live in Toronto, Canada in 2019. In this class, Thomas Popp demonstrates the basic skills needed to excel as a Sound Engineer in the industry. All members of the sound team will benefit from this course, as well as any industry professional. Simply put, anyone that finds themselves having to mic someone will feel at ease after watching this course. It will instill an advanced level of set etiquette and technique that can be the foundation for a positive and comfortable wiring experience for both the talent and the professional.
Learning Outcomes
Learn how to approach an actor professionally.
Discover the tools used by sound mixers to wire talent professionally anywhere.
Learn different tricks for different wardrobes.
Different sections for wiring male vs. female talent.
Learn multiple places to put a microphone pack on your talent depending on the scene and wardrobe.
- Lectures 6
- Quizzes 0
- Duration Lifetime access
- Skill level All levels
- Students 198
- Certificate Yes
- Assessments Yes
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Engaging
I enjoyed listening to this course. Thomas is knowledgeable because of his real-world experiences. Thomas, you have a great ability to teach and keep people engaged.My favorite part was how you described what kids will do to the mic if you explain it in too much detail.Jonathan Millett
Very informative and a must for all sound utilities
I've been doing sound for years and have been working in the film industry for quite some time, and from watching this, I still have much to learn. By sharing his experience in the field, Thomas Popp gives a very informative dissertation on all the techniques that go into perfecting the art of getting the sound right the first time and eliminating every problematic situation while dealing with talent gently and tactfully. He teaches from a Union perspective and this information is crucial for me as I am currently working on joining. Watching these videos has taught me so much and I am already incorporating these techniques on set.Eric Sarich
Very impressed
So many things I never thought about. I definitely need to watch a second time to let it all sink in.[email protected]
Great advice for all levels
I loved this class! I’ve been doing sound for almost ten years and still took down quite a few notes. You’re never done learning! I loved what he had to say about being proactive vs reactive. Tom goes over technical workflow, micing techniques, general advice on etiquette and much more. Everyone needs this course to stay sharp and on top of their game.Julien Matthey
Great course!
I really enjoyed watching this course. It's very detailed and even if I'm practicing since several years I've learned a lot buy listening Thomas. That also confirms that I was already right on some points. It's just a pitty filming is not as great as the speech. The camera is not showing the right angle too many times. That kinda frustrating when Thomas show something on the screen and you can't see it. The same with some tools he shows but are filmed in wide angle. Anyway, that doesn't spoil the masterclass too much and thanks Thomas for sharing so many great techniques. You're an amazing speaker. Respect!
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6 Comments
So many things learned. Need to watch again.