How can you capture high quality audio without a dedicated microphone for your video production?

The iPhone microphone is a remarkable piece of technology that plays a crucial role in capturing high-quality audio for various purposes, including video recording, voice memos, and video calls. iPhones typically come equipped with advanced microphones that are designed to deliver clear and crisp audio in diverse environments. For video production, the iPhone's microphone capabilities are particularly noteworthy. It can capture rich, detailed sound directly from the source, providing users with a convenient and portable solution for recording interviews, vlogs, or any other audiovisual content. Additionally, the iPhone often supports stereo recording, enhancing the depth and realism of captured audio.

Smartphones or cameras have built-in microphones, but their audio quality might only sometimes meet professional standards. Selecting a device known for its superior audio features, such as multiple built-in microphones, noise-cancelling technology, or compatibility with external microphones, can greatly enhance the audio quality of your video recordings. Additionally, optimising the recording environment by minimising background noise and echoes can further elevate the audio quality when using the built-in microphones of your chosen device.

In my experience, the microphone is essential for video. I would say even if you can compromise on video quality, but do not compromise on audio quality and consider a better microphone.

Use several devices where possible - a smartphone, an old dictaphone (retailing around GBP 10), and a laptop microphone are three accessible options. Having several recording devices running will give you the option of editing audio tracks at a later date.

For optimal audio without a dedicated microphone, position your recording device close to the sound source, minimize background noise, and consider using external audio recording apps. Enhance post-production with noise reduction tools and equalization for improved audio quality in video production.

Any vocalist or voiceover artist who doesn't have a studio will tell you that we all have a kind-of-a-studio in our homes; our wardrobes. Put the recording device in front of the hanging cloths and speak in the direction of the cloths. They will work as acoustic treatments, reducing noise, reverb and echo. In such an environment, you'll also end up with sound that has more depth and is richer to the ear.

Popular audio noise cancellation software includes Audacity, Adobe Audition, Sony Vegas and Pro Tools. These tools offer features to reduce or eliminate background noise and enhance overall audio quality.

Select a quiet filming location away from potential sources of disturbance, such as busy streets or loud machinery. Directional microphones or lavalier mics can help focus on capturing clearer audio from your subject while reducing ambient noise. Employing windshields or pop filters on microphones can mitigate unwanted sounds caused by air movement or plosives. Close windows, using soundproofing materials, or filming during quieter times can significantly reduce background noise. During post-production, noise reduction tools in editing software can further clean up audio by targeting and eliminating specific unwanted sounds without compromising the overall quality of the recording.

Earbud is still a very good option Get the cheapest wired earphones from the market and keep it near to your neck. Have a silent room, and this is all you need to get started. Use RegforgeII or any voice recorder, but record separately and then synchronize

To create a makeshift microphone using headphones, choose a pair with an inline or built-in mic. Plug the headphones into the microphone jack of your recording device. Position the inline or built-in microphone close to your mouth to capture clearer audio. Adjusting the input settings on your recording device and testing different distances and angles for the headphone's microphone help optimise the audio quality for your specific recording situation. The audio quality might vary based on the headphone's specifications and the recording environment.

VOCAL DIALOGUE TIP: If you don't have a boom mic, lapelle, or another audio recording device. Use your phone's microphone to record all your voice dialogue. Close to your mouth with no BG noise. Then you can simply add that audio recording track to your timeline and line it up with the speech. VOILA. BONUS TIP: It's likely that the audio recorded on your smartphone won't be 'Radio' quality, so add some EQ, Compression, and make sure the track is MONO not stereo. This way the voice cuts right through the middle.

While a dedicated microphone is ideal, you can still capture decent audio using your smartphone's built-in microphone. Ensure a quiet environment, get the device close to the sound source, reduce background noise, you can also use softwares and tools that enhance your audio quality.

Never hesitate to test the sound in various enclosed spaces and listen to whether the sound is diffused correctly. It's important to be as close as possible to the voices, while preparing your camera to pick up correct sound by manually adjusting the audio in the menu.