Microphone decisions...

[Michael J. Murphy]

Hi-

 

I've been shooting with my Sony HVR-Z1 since December of 2005 and didn't really have any film jobs coming in. So for a little while I decided I wouldn't need a microphone if I was just doing stock filming. Now I'm becoming more "noticed" and am starting to build up a network of possible clients. I was asked to shoot a wedding for my Spanish teacher, with me and the camera on the tripod on a balcony about 40 feet from the bride and groom. Luckily, the on-camera microphone picked up everything fine, but if I'm going to start doing this professionally, I need a microphone.

 

So, here's what I need help with. I've studied up on mics and their pickup types (cardoid, bi-directional, hyper cardiod, etc.), each with its own advantage. I need a mic with the most flexibility in a given situation, whether the intended subject is speaking to the camera only six feet away or is about to kiss the bride forty feet away. I also have a self-set budget of $500. Any suggestions as far as type or even model?

 

Thanks!

 

Michael

[Robert Hughes]

Sennheiser MKH60 short shotgun. You can find them used for about $1000. They don't get any better than this. You'll need a phantom power supply and a wind sock.

[Michael J. Murphy]

That would be great, but I specified a budget of $500. The camera has phantom supply and a windsock is easy to come by, but the budget is quite rigid.

 

Thanks, though!

[Walter Graff]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller...egoryNavigation

 

This mic kit is $500 and is a great all around mic to attach to a camera.

[Michael J. Murphy]

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller...egoryNavigation

 

This mic kit is $500 and is a great all around mic to attach to a camera.

 

Sounds great; I'll look into it. Thanks!