Lavalier Walkthrough

Summarize 3 different key functions of a lavalier that you picked up from this short video. What is one question you still have on how to set up a lav?

    Three key functions of a lavalier microphone are its subtlety, hands-free operation, and wireless capability. One of the biggest reasons to use a lavalier microphone is because it can be hidden inside a subject's clothes. This is pivotal for narrative films as being able to see the microphone can ruin the immersion for the viewers. Lavs are typically the next best choice after a boom mic because of how small they are and how well they can be hidden. If a shot is long or if there's no way to boom it, hiding a lav on the actor or even planting on on set, e.g., inside a car or prop, is a very effective way to maintain the immersion whilst still getting good audio. Another important function is how little you don't have to worry about it after setup and placement. Unlike with boom mics (which need an operator that's constantly thinking about it), lavs can be placed and, if placed well, not need to be worried about if it's capturing the audio well. This is because it stays in the same place on the actor's body so it should maintain the same distance from their mouth no matter how they move. One of the biggest functions of a lavalier microphone is that it can be used wirelessly with a transmitter. Although the lav is wired to the transmitter, both remain on the subject's person, meaning that there are no wires that get in the way of movement. This allows you to still get audio when the shot wouldn't allow booms and/or would show wires from mics. Additionally, it frees up the actor to move around more freely and not worry about catching the wire on anything nor tripping on it. One question that I still have on setting up a lav is how to set it up inside someone's clothes while minimizing clothing rustle.