Hey! Im making a short-film and even though I don't have a shotgun mic, I have a condenser. I know its not recommendable but could I use the condenser as a shotgun mic? What should I do?
Hi Anon!
A condenser is very different from a shotgun mic in the way it picks up sound.
Condensers tend to be omni-directional, meaning they pick up sound all the way around the mic. In contrast, Shotgun mics are very directional and only pick up sound where they are pointing. Directional mics are extremely helpful when filming because they don’t pick up the unwanted background noises. An omni-directional mic will pick up everything.
That’s not to say you can’t use it, but you have to be aware of it’s limitations.
Keep the condenser hidden, but as close to the subject as possible.
I wouldn’t try and move with it because it will most likely pick up sound from whatever it is mounted on.
Scope out your locations to evaluate the ambient noise. Try to find a place as quiet as possible. Indoor locations are preferable.
I hope this helps!
Jules
