What microphones are best for video?
Short Answer:
The best microphone depends on the situation: lavalier (clip-on) mics are ideal for interviews and presenters, shotgun mics are great for capturing directional sound in controlled settings, and handheld mics suit vox-pops and events. For important dialogue, professionals use a lav plus a backup recorder. Whatever the choice, good audio matters as much as good picture.
Overview
There is no single best microphone — each type solves a different problem. What matters is choosing the right mic for the scene and always capturing clean, redundant audio, because poor sound undermines even beautiful footage.
Detailed Explanation
Microphone types and uses
Lavalier (lapel): discreet, clipped to the subject; perfect for interviews and presenters.
Shotgun: highly directional; captures dialogue while rejecting off-axis noise, often on a boom.
Handheld: robust and simple for interviews on the move, vox-pops, and stage use.
Wireless systems: free the subject to move; essential for dynamic shooting.
Backup recording: a second recorder on key dialogue guards against dropouts or interference.
Audiences forgive imperfect visuals far sooner than bad audio, so professionals treat sound as a priority — often recording a lav and a backup simultaneously for critical dialogue.
Example
For a seated interview, a crew might use a discreet lav mic on the subject with a shotgun mic overhead as backup, so if one has an issue the other still captures usable, clean dialogue.