Mastering Concealment: A Comprehensive Guide to Hiding Lapel Mics Like a Pro

Using a lapel mic, also known as a lavalier microphone, is a fantastic way to capture clear audio in video and audio recordings. However, the visual of a microphone clipped prominently to someone’s clothing can sometimes be distracting or undesirable. Whether you’re a filmmaker, vlogger, interviewer, or public speaker, knowing how to discreetly hide a lapel mic is a valuable skill. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various techniques, offering detailed steps and instructions to achieve professional-quality audio without compromising the visual aesthetic.

## Why Hide a Lapel Mic?

Before diving into the “how,” let’s briefly consider the “why.” Here are a few common reasons for concealing a lapel mic:

* **Aesthetics:** In film, television, and professional video productions, visual aesthetics are paramount. A visible mic can be distracting and take away from the overall viewing experience.
* **Professionalism:** In interviews and presentations, a hidden mic can project a more polished and professional image.
* **Discretion:** In certain situations, such as documentaries or investigative journalism, concealing the mic may be necessary for privacy or security reasons.
* **Avoiding Interference:** A hidden mic, when properly placed, can sometimes be less susceptible to wind noise or clothing rustle.

## Essential Equipment and Supplies

Before you start concealing your lapel mic, gather the necessary tools and supplies. Having these on hand will make the process much smoother and more efficient:

* **Lapel Microphone:** Obviously, you’ll need a high-quality lapel mic. Consider the type of mic (omnidirectional vs. directional) and its sensitivity based on your recording environment.
* **Mic Clips and Mounts:** Most lapel mics come with standard clips, but you might also want to invest in specialized mounts for different concealment methods (e.g., vampire clips, tie clips).
* **Mic Tape (Medical Grade):** This is crucial for securing the mic to the skin or clothing without causing irritation. Moleskin tape or Topstick toupee tape are popular choices.
* **Double-Sided Tape:** Useful for adhering the mic to fabric or other surfaces.
* **Safety Pins:** For securing cables and preventing them from pulling on the mic.
* **Cable Management Clips or Ties:** To keep the mic cable organized and out of sight.
* **Foam Windscreen or Furry Windjammer:** To reduce wind noise and plosives (popping sounds from “p” and “b” sounds).
* **Scissors or a Small Knife:** For cutting tape and trimming materials.
* **Sewing Kit (Needle and Thread):** For creating hidden pockets or reinforcing fabric.
* **Makeup Sponges or Cotton Balls:** To further dampen sounds and vibrations.
* **Baby Powder or Cornstarch:** To reduce friction and absorb moisture (especially when placing the mic against the skin).
* **Wardrobe Options:** Consider the clothing being worn. Some fabrics and styles are easier to work with than others.

## General Principles of Lapel Mic Concealment

Before we delve into specific techniques, let’s establish some fundamental principles that apply to all lapel mic concealment methods:

* **Prioritize Audio Quality:** Concealment should never compromise audio quality. Always test the mic placement and listen carefully for any unwanted noises or muffled sounds.
* **Minimize Clothing Noise:** Clothing rustle is the enemy of clean audio. Choose fabrics that are quiet and avoid placing the mic where it will rub against clothing.
* **Secure the Cable:** The mic cable is a major source of noise and distraction. Secure it properly to prevent it from moving or pulling on the mic.
* **Test, Test, Test:** Before you start recording, always test the mic placement and audio levels. Walk around, move your body, and speak normally to ensure that the mic is picking up your voice clearly and without any unwanted noises.
* **Consider the Environment:** The recording environment will influence your concealment strategy. In noisy environments, you may need to place the mic closer to the mouth, even if it means sacrificing some discretion.
* **Work with the Wardrobe:** The clothing being worn will significantly impact your concealment options. Choose clothing that offers convenient hiding places and allows for easy cable management.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** Concealing a lapel mic effectively takes practice. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you.

## Techniques for Hiding Lapel Mics

Here are several techniques for concealing lapel mics, ranging from simple to more advanced:

### 1. The Standard Clip (Slightly Hidden)

This is the most basic method and works best when you only need to slightly minimize the mic’s visibility.

* **Step 1: Choose a Placement:** Select a location on the clothing, typically on the lapel, collar, or upper chest, where the mic will be close to the speaker’s mouth. Aim for a distance of about 6-8 inches.
* **Step 2: Attach the Mic:** Use the standard clip that comes with the lapel mic to attach it to the clothing.
* **Step 3: Conceal the Cable:** Run the cable underneath the clothing and secure it with safety pins or cable ties to prevent it from dangling. Try to route the cable internally, through a buttonhole or seam, if possible.
* **Step 4: Test and Adjust:** Test the audio quality and adjust the mic placement as needed. Make sure the mic is not rubbing against clothing or creating any unwanted noise.

**Pros:** Simple and quick to implement.
**Cons:** The mic is still somewhat visible.

### 2. Under the Collar

This method is effective for collared shirts and jackets.

* **Step 1: Position the Mic:** Place the lapel mic underneath the collar, close to the edge. You can use the standard clip or a small piece of mic tape to secure it.
* **Step 2: Conceal the Cable:** Run the cable down the back of the shirt or jacket, inside the collar. Use safety pins or cable ties to secure the cable and prevent it from pulling on the mic.
* **Step 3: Fine-Tune Placement:** Adjust the mic’s position to achieve the best audio quality. Experiment with different angles to minimize clothing noise.
* **Step 4: Secure the Collar:** If the collar tends to flap around, use a small piece of double-sided tape to secure it in place. This will also help to reduce wind noise.

**Pros:** More discreet than the standard clip method.
**Cons:** May not work well with all collar types.

### 3. Inside a Buttonhole

This technique works well for shirts, jackets, and dresses with buttonholes.

* **Step 1: Prepare the Buttonhole:** Choose a buttonhole that is close to the speaker’s mouth. Make sure the buttonhole is large enough to accommodate the mic.
* **Step 2: Thread the Mic:** Carefully thread the lapel mic through the buttonhole. Position the mic so that the capsule (the part that picks up sound) is facing outwards.
* **Step 3: Secure the Mic:** Use a small piece of mic tape to secure the mic to the inside of the clothing. This will prevent it from moving around and creating noise.
* **Step 4: Manage the Cable:** Run the cable down the inside of the clothing and secure it with safety pins or cable ties.

**Pros:** Very discreet and effective at concealing the mic.
**Cons:** Requires clothing with suitable buttonholes.

### 4. The Tie Clip Technique

This method is ideal for interviews or presentations where the speaker is wearing a tie.

* **Step 1: Attach the Mic to the Tie Clip:** Use a small piece of mic tape or double-sided tape to attach the lapel mic to the back of a tie clip.
* **Step 2: Position the Tie Clip:** Clip the tie clip to the tie, positioning it so that the mic is close to the speaker’s mouth.
* **Step 3: Conceal the Cable:** Run the cable down the back of the tie and secure it with a cable tie or safety pin.
* **Step 4: Adjust for Comfort and Sound:** Make sure the tie clip is comfortable for the speaker and that the mic is positioned to capture clear audio.

**Pros:** Provides excellent audio quality and is relatively discreet.
**Cons:** Only applicable when wearing a tie.

### 5. The Hairline Technique

This method is particularly useful when the speaker is wearing clothing that doesn’t offer convenient hiding places.

* **Step 1: Prepare the Hair:** Gently lift a section of hair near the hairline, close to the ear.
* **Step 2: Attach the Mic:** Use a small piece of mic tape or Topstick toupee tape to attach the lapel mic to the skin, just behind the hairline. Make sure the mic is positioned so that it is pointing towards the speaker’s mouth.
* **Step 3: Conceal with Hair:** Carefully arrange the hair to cover the mic. Use hairspray or gel to keep the hair in place.
* **Step 4: Manage the Cable:** Run the cable down the back of the neck and underneath the clothing. Secure it with safety pins or cable ties.

**Pros:** Very discreet and works well with a variety of clothing styles.
**Cons:** Requires sufficient hair to conceal the mic.

### 6. Taping to the Chest (The “Sweater Method”)

This method is best suited for situations where the speaker is wearing a sweater or a loose-fitting shirt.

* **Step 1: Prepare the Skin:** Clean the area of the chest where the mic will be placed with an alcohol swab. This will remove any oils or dirt and help the tape adhere better.
* **Step 2: Apply Mic Tape:** Cut a small piece of mic tape and attach it to the back of the lapel mic.
* **Step 3: Position the Mic:** Carefully position the mic on the chest, close to the sternum. The exact placement will depend on the speaker’s anatomy and the clothing being worn. Typically about 6-8 inches below the chin.
* **Step 4: Secure with Additional Tape:** Use additional pieces of mic tape to secure the edges of the mic to the skin. Make sure the tape is applied smoothly and without any wrinkles.
* **Step 5: Manage the Cable:** Run the cable down the body and underneath the clothing. Use safety pins or cable ties to secure the cable and prevent it from pulling on the mic.
* **Step 6: Add a Layer of Fabric:** If possible, place a thin layer of fabric (such as a piece of moleskin or cotton) between the mic and the clothing. This will help to reduce clothing noise.

**Pros:** Relatively discreet and provides good audio quality.
**Cons:** Can be uncomfortable for some people, especially if they have sensitive skin. Also, sweat can impact adhesion.

### 7. Using Specialized Concealment Accessories

Several companies offer specialized accessories designed to help conceal lapel mics. These accessories can be very effective, but they can also be expensive.

* **Vampire Clips:** These clips attach to the clothing with small, sharp teeth. They provide a secure hold and can be easily hidden.
* **Rycote Undercovers and Overcovers:** These products are designed to reduce clothing noise and wind noise. They consist of a soft, furry material that is placed around the mic.
* **Sanken CUB-01:** This is a specialized concealer designed specifically for Sanken COS-11D microphones. It allows for very discreet placement and provides excellent audio quality.

**Pros:** Can provide excellent concealment and audio quality.
**Cons:** Can be expensive.

### 8. Creating a Hidden Pocket

This method is more involved, but it can provide the most discreet concealment.

* **Step 1: Choose a Location:** Select a location on the clothing where you can create a hidden pocket. This could be on the inside of a jacket, on the back of a shirt, or even inside a hat.
* **Step 2: Create the Pocket:** Use a sewing kit to create a small pocket that is just large enough to hold the lapel mic. Make sure the pocket is securely sewn to the clothing.
* **Step 3: Place the Mic:** Place the lapel mic inside the pocket. Position the mic so that the capsule is facing outwards.
* **Step 4: Secure the Cable:** Run the cable down the inside of the clothing and secure it with safety pins or cable ties.

**Pros:** Extremely discreet and provides excellent audio quality.
**Cons:** Requires sewing skills and is more time-consuming.

## Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with careful planning and execution, you may encounter some common problems when concealing lapel mics. Here are some tips for troubleshooting these issues:

* **Clothing Noise:** If you are experiencing excessive clothing noise, try placing a thin layer of fabric between the mic and the clothing. You can also try using a Rycote Undercover or Overcover.
* **Wind Noise:** Wind noise can be a major problem, especially when recording outdoors. Use a foam windscreen or furry windjammer to reduce wind noise. You can also try positioning the mic in a less exposed location.
* **Muffled Sound:** If the audio sounds muffled, try repositioning the mic closer to the speaker’s mouth. Make sure the mic is not being blocked by clothing or other objects.
* **Popping Sounds (Plosives):** Plosives are caused by bursts of air from “p” and “b” sounds. Use a foam windscreen to reduce plosives. You can also try positioning the mic slightly off-axis from the speaker’s mouth.
* **Cable Noise:** Cable noise is caused by the mic cable rubbing against clothing or other objects. Secure the cable properly to prevent it from moving around.
* **Interference:** Interference can be caused by electronic devices or other sources of electromagnetic radiation. Move the mic away from any potential sources of interference.
* **Mic Falling Off:** Ensure the skin is clean and dry before applying tape. Use medical-grade tape specifically designed for skin contact, such as Topstick. For longer recordings, consider using additional adhesive like Mastix. Reapply if necessary.

## Advanced Techniques and Considerations

Beyond the basic techniques, there are several advanced considerations that can further improve your lapel mic concealment skills:

* **Using Multiple Mics:** In some situations, using multiple lapel mics can provide better audio coverage. For example, you could use one mic to capture the speaker’s voice and another mic to capture ambient sound.
* **Wireless Mics:** Wireless lapel mics offer greater flexibility and freedom of movement. However, they can also be more expensive and require careful setup.
* **Boom Microphones:** While this article focuses on lapel mics, it’s worth mentioning boom microphones as an alternative. Boom mics are mounted on a pole and held above the speaker’s head. They can provide excellent audio quality, but they require a dedicated boom operator.
* **The Importance of Pre-Production Planning:** Thinking about the audio setup *before* the shoot is crucial. Discuss wardrobe with the talent, scout locations for potential audio issues, and test your microphone setup thoroughly.
* **Working with Wardrobe Departments:** On larger productions, collaborate with the wardrobe department. They can create custom pockets or modify clothing to better accommodate microphones.

## Conclusion

Hiding a lapel mic effectively is a combination of technique, preparation, and practice. By mastering the principles and techniques outlined in this guide, you can achieve professional-quality audio without sacrificing the visual aesthetic. Remember to prioritize audio quality, minimize clothing noise, secure the cable, and always test your setup thoroughly. With a little effort, you can become a master of lapel mic concealment and elevate the quality of your audio and video recordings.