What are the dead simple to use reporting tools for field audio interviews? The field research continues in Europe where I’ll be training reporters using these FlashMics in Brussels.
I hope to be convinced that they are extremely simple to use AND can produce sound to professional standards. That’s a winning combination for me and, as a part owner in a recording studio, something I obviously value very highly.
On the FlashMic, You basically just have to press one button to make it record, and another to stop. They also do have line input for picking up sound from an external source (like a press conference etc).
I am just wondering how windproof they are and how quiet they are with regards to self-noise and how resistant to handling noise (The sound of the mic moving in the reporter’s hand and they shove it in front of an MP for a sound bite.)
This private podcast producing training event will teach about 15 reporters the fundamentals of recording broadcast-quality audio in audio hostile environments, working with scripted pieces, producing shows as well as two-track and multi-track editing and show production principles.
It is a lot to aim for but these students also have high ambitions, too.
Normally I like to spec the Zoom H4 for mobile audio and video work because it provides industry-standard XLR connections and serves as Analog to Digital interface via USB. Both features critical for producing voice overs and fast-turnaround in the field.
Before heading to Brussels I am departing a foot of snow in Chicago to volunteer my services to the Visual Editors charity and teach a three day Camp Video Journalism in Orlando (All Camp VJ instructors volunteer their services, btw) and I can’t wait to get back in the classroom.
After Florida it will be on to Washington, D.C. for a conference on documentary filmmaking. In March I have been asked to come to St. Louis to teach at another APME Newstrain event and then it will be two weeks in Europe: The podcast class in Brussels, and some time with friends at KircherBurkhardt in Berlin to run Camp Video Journalism Berlin.
In April I have been asked to return to Vancouver, British Columbia to teach video storytelling techniques with editors at the BCYCNA conference. I ran workshops for them in Prince George and British Columbia this time last year.
Whew! Maybe by then the snow will have melted here in Chicago.
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