PART 5 Recording and Editing the Production the camera is moved nearer to achieve this, the subject may now appear much too close in the video image. Then the only remedy is to widen the lens angle to reduce its apparent size. But close-up shots with a close wide lens angle noticeably distort people and exaggerate space. The camera microphone cannot follow somebody if he or she turns away from a frontal position, such as to point to a nearby wall map. The sound's volume and quality will fall off as they move off-mic. Handheld Microphone The handheld mic (or stick mic) is a familiar sight on television, used by interviewers, singers, and commentators. It is a very simple, convenient method of sound pickup, provided that it is used properly. Otherwise, results can be erratic. The handheld mic is best held just below shoulder height, pointed slightly toward the person speaking. Make it as unobtrusive as pos- sible (Figure 15.11). To reduce the low rumbling noises of wind on the microphone and explosive breath-pops when it is held too close to the mouth, it is advisable to attach a foam windshield to the micro- phone. Note the yellow foam windshield in the interview photo in Figure 15.11. Whenever possible, talk across the microphone rather than directly into it. This will provide the optimal audio quality. Some people attempt to hold the mic around waist height to prevent it from being visible in the picture, however, this generally results in weak pickup, poor quality, and more intrusive background noise. Handheld microphones with cardioid patterns help reduce the amount of extraneous sound overheard, so it can be used about 1­1.5 feet (0.30 m­0.45 m) from the person speaking. If an omnidirectional handheld mic is used, it should normally be held much closer--around 9 inches (22 cm). When the talent is walking around with a handheld mic, make sure that he or she has plenty of mic cable (or better yet, a wireless mic). The talent should be able to move around easily without the cable limiting movement, as you are making sure that others don't step on it and that no one trips on the cable. It is important to run the cable out of sight of the camera. Gaffer tape (or duct tape) can be used to tape the cable to the floor. 246 FIGURE 15.11 The handheld microphone is widely used for interviews, commentaries, and stage work. If the mic has a cardioid directional response, extraneous noise pickup is lower. If it is omnidirectional, the mic may need to be held closer to the subject to reduce atmosphere sounds. The mic is normally held just below shoulder height.