How can you ensure consistent sound quality in location recording?

Wrap your mics in Styrofoam or other dampeners of background noise. Set the right mic pattern for the shot. If needed, record the immediate environment separately from of the primary dialogue and isolate it from the dialogue, if those sounds contribute to the scene's dynamics. Record them on isolated separate tracks to be mixed in later. Use at least a 6 track field recorder. Edit in and mix the tracks with code to the film with the score, in the studio for best results. In this way, you maintain as much control over the sound environment of the shot as possible, without having to re-record scenes that already have the right emotional content to begin with. There will always be studio overdubs in the studio. That is a given!

Position microphones close to the sound source to capture clear and consistent audio while minimizing background noise. Experiment with different microphone placements to find the optimal position for capturing the desired sound. Use windshields to protect microphones from wind noise, especially when recording outdoors. Monitor weather conditions and adjust wind protection accordingly to maintain consistent sound quality. Use headphones to monitor audio levels during recording and ensure they remain consistent and within acceptable ranges. Set appropriate recording levels to prevent clipping or distortion while capturing sufficient audio detail.

If your location audio is critical to your story (interviews, on-camera monologue, and/or dialogue, etc.) it is always a good idea to perform a tech scout of your location. Is there construction, traffic, planes, etc...anything within earshot of your desired filming location? The tech scout will allow you to make plans to ensure you will be able to capture the video and audio you need at that location.

Using the proper microphone to record on-camera audio is critical. A shotgun mic (on a boom pole) will allow you to target the audio you want to record and minimize the area's ambient sound. Placing a lav mic (hard-line or wireless) on a subject will allow you to capture the isolated vocal tones of your on-camera subjects being recorded. As a safety measure using two microphones recorded to separate channels is also recommended.

CYA! Always cover your ass. It is always recommended to capture alt takes of both on-camera and off-camera sound recorded at each location. Alternate takes, or reads will provide more options in your edit. Capture room and/or world tone at each location. Each location has ambient sound and tone that could save you. Recording 30 seconds of location sound/tone will allow you to make seamless audio edits.