The Most Important Piece of Video Equipment

“What is the most important piece of video equipment?” I pulled a pop quiz on the Jackson Creek Middle School students this week when they asked me to explain my business. Of course, everyone answered “the camera.” Actually, no.

#ProTip: Audio quality is more important than video quality

Believe it or not, the microphone is significantly more important than the camera. Audiences will tolerate a low-quality image more than they will tolerate a buzzing, humming or distraction in their ear. Your videographer should ALWAYS use a professional microphone to capture on-site sound (we always do!). From a planning perspective, if your project involves on-site interviews, you will need to find a completely quiet space. Listen hard in your potential room to see if there’s a fan hum, a light buzz, or even the rush of traffic outside. Let your videographer know about any noise pollution so that, together, you can find a solution or a new location.

Katie Rutter is the executive producer of Thing in a Pot Productions. She has received multiple awards for her videos and the overall quality of her work, including being honored as Video Producer of the Year in 2018 by the Catholic Press Association. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive our video Pro Tips in your inbox every month!