For general filming we use an in-built microphone within the camera to record sound. This will pick up “actuality” – speech or sound in a room but not at interview quality.

For interviews we use two microphones – a belt and braces approach to sound recording. One is attached to the interviewee on their chest area below the chin. We use a tie, jacket lapel or V-neck of a shirt or blouse. Radio microphones are wireless and you will be asked to place a receiver in a pocket. This allows you to move around.

Hard wire microphones are attached to the camera by a wire which needs to be out of sight. You may well be asked to pass it through your top garment to emerge higher up to be clipped into position. Ladies being interviewed are advised to consider what they are going to wear given this requirement.

The gun microphone is a furry ferret looking thing which, as its name suggests, is directional. This will pick up ambient sound as well as the interview.

Back in the edit suite we mix these sounds to best effect.