Lavalier mic
A lavalier mic (or lav) is a small clip-on microphone attached to clothing near the chest, leaving hands free and staying out of the camera frame. It is common in video podcasts and on-location interviews.
For example, a guest clips a lav to their collar about a hand's width below the chin, so it picks up their voice consistently even as they turn their head.
Why it matters: a clip-on mic keeps the shot clean with no boom or desk mic in frame, which makes a video podcast look more like polished broadcast than a webcam call.
A well-placed lav sits about a hand's width below the chin, clipped securely, with the cable hidden and no clothing rustle.
- Clipping it too low or behind a tie, causing muffled or rubbing sound.
- Forgetting to mute or check battery before recording.
- Relying on a single lav with no backup capture if it fails.
What is a lavalier mic?
A lavalier mic (or lav) is a small clip-on microphone attached to clothing near the chest, leaving hands free and staying out of the camera frame. It is common in video podcasts and on-location interviews.
Are lavalier mics as good as a desk mic?
Good wireless lavs sound excellent and are ideal for video because they stay out of frame. A large desk mic can capture slightly richer tone but is visible and ties the speaker to one spot.
Where should a lavalier mic be clipped?
About 15 to 20 cm below the chin, centred on the chest, clipped firmly so clothing does not rub against it and cause rustle.