BLOG QUESTION: PICKUP PATTERNS

What are the different pickup patterns mentioned in the video? How are each of them different from each other? Why would these be needed?

The different pickup patterns mentioned include Omnidirectional, Cardioid, Hypercardioid (Mini-Shotguns), Supercardioid (Shotgun), Lobar (Unidirectional), and Bidirectional (Figure 8 Pattern). An omnidirectional pickup pattern records audio from every direction, meaning that they pickup a lot of surrounding sound. This pickup pattern is helpful when you're trying to control ambient sound or subjects that are moving around, and it's commonly used for lav mics. A cardioid mic is great for many purposes, but particularly documentaries or events. They can still pickup background noise if they're not in a controlled environment. Hypercardioid and Supercardioid (also known as mini and regular shotguns) are best for recording isolated sounds. Hypercardiod pickup patterns are commonly used to record instruments, as on-camera mics, and for documentary recordings. Supercardiod pickup patterns are best for scripted audio. The different between the two is the amount of noise that is picked up from behind the mic, with hypercardioid picking up more sound. Lobar is the most unidirectional pickup pattern, and is best used for controlled sets and narrative film. You'll need someone to assist you on set if you decide to use this mic, and someone who's experienced and familiar with it. Lastly, the bidirectional pickup pattern is used for podcasts and radio interviews. This mic picks up audio equally from the front and back of the mic.