As a content creator, there are many different variables to juggle. Some might seem more obvious – like your camera quality and onscreen talent – while others might not come to mind quite as quickly. However, that doesn’t mean that these small details don’t have a meaningful impact.

Audio quality is a factor that many new creators forget to consider, but one that makes a significant difference in your audience’s experience. Learning how to record high-quality audio is necessary if you want your content to be professional, engaging, and successful.

We’ve assembled an introductory guide that delves into all things audio, taking the guesswork out of getting a quality digital recording that will add to (not detract from) your final product.

How to Record the Best Digital Audio 

Thanks to the accessibility of quality technology and equipment, it’s possible to record excellent audio even if you aren’t technically a professional. However, having so many options for enhancing audio quality can also make the task somewhat daunting.

There are three basic steps to record professional-quality audio with ease:

1. Be prepared with the right equipment.
2. Plan and execute your shoot.
3. Understand your editing options.

Selecting the Best Audio Recording Gear

First and foremost, you need to start with a solid lineup of appropriate gear. Of course, like most things in digital production, there’s no single formula for the best audio set-up. It depends on each scenario, with influencing factors ranging from location to content focus.

Keeping your specific situation in mind, you’ll need to select:

• Microphones: The microphone is the equipment that captures the sound. Your choices range from the ultra-basic built-in camera microphone to a double-system audio recording set-up. Each has pros and cons, and starting with a built-in microphone and working your way up could be an ideal route.
• Recorders: A portable digital audio recording device is a handy tool for a professional-level project. They work in tandem with microphones to capture the audio, then record and store it either internally or on an external device.
• Accessories: There are all kinds of device accessories available for elevating audio quality, including scenario-specific items such as booms, shotgun mics, wind covers, compressors/processors, and field mixers. 

Approach On-Set Recording like a Professional

Like your choice of gear, your approach to recording relies on the kind of project you’re creating. But no matter what you’re producing, the location of your microphone is critical. You want to be confident that it’s situated close enough to your subjects to capture dialogue sufficiently.

Additionally, testing the recording process is an essential step. Testing is a critical opportunity to check the functionality of all equipment, make sure everything is ready, fully charged, and pinpoint any ambient noise to ensure a perfectly balanced sound.

Be Prepared for Post-Production

The last component of the audio recording process is editing. In most cases, being familiar with audio production basics is necessary to edit a digital recording properly. You’ll be working with editing software and some specific tools that may take some skill and practice to master. 

As you move forward in your experience and career, you’ll likely have access to even more advanced editing capabilities – which is always a plus in audio production.

Learn New Audio Production Skills to Advance Your Career

Whether you already work in media, are using media technology to elevate your current career, or are searching for a new job altogether, you can empower yourself with an excellent education. 

Students of the BeOnAir Network of Media Schools, with campuses in Chicago, Miami, Colorado, and Ohio, spend time in the classroom and a studio setting to build a complex understanding of audio production and editing. You won’t simply learn how to record quality audio; you’ll be doing it. Plus, we can help you connect with industry internship opportunities, so you can continue to expand your career possibilities. 

If you’re ready to learn the latest digital production techniques from some of the most talented experts in the industry, the BeOnAir Network of Media Schools could be right for you. Contact us for more information about how to apply and enroll today!

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