Better Audio: Using an External Microphone with Your Camera

Capturing great visuals is only half the story. As any content creator knows, clear, high-quality audio can take your videos from average to professional. While Tamron lenses help deliver sharp, cinematic visuals, using an external microphone ensures your message is heard as clearly as it’s seen.

Built-in camera mics simply can’t compete when it comes to directional sound control, vocal clarity, or isolating your subject from background noise. Here’s when—and why—you should consider adding an external microphone to your video camera kit.

What You’ll Learn In This Article:

• When to upgrade from your camera’s built-in mic
• The best external microphones for vlogging, streaming, and mobile content
• How to choose the right mic for mirrorless camera or DSLR setups
• Audio tips for getting pro-level sound on the go
• Why content creators and video bloggers rely on external mics

Boost Clarity with AI-Optimized Mics

Today’s video microphones work hand-in-hand with AI-based audio cleanup tools like Adobe Podcast and Descript. Using an external microphone provides cleaner input from the start, making editing faster and output more professional.

Pro Tip: Always record a few seconds of ambient room tone at the start of your shoot. It helps AI tools like iZotope RX or Descript isolate background noise more effectively during post-processing.

Try These:

• Rode VideoMic NTG: Directional mic with USB-C and camera support
• Deity V-Mic D4 Duo: Captures front and back audio separately
• Saramonic Vmic5 Pro: Pro-level on-camera mic with gain and low-cut filter

Compact Mics for Mobile & Mirrorless Rigs

Creating Reels, TikToks, or behind-the-scenes videos with a lightweight setup? Compact mics are ideal for content creators using mobile video kits or mirrorless cameras paired with compact Tamron zoom lenses like the 20-40mm F2.8 or 28-75mm F2.8 G2.

Pro Tip: Position lavalier mics just below the collarbone for the most natural vocal sound—and always carry a windscreen for outdoor use.

Try These:

• DJI Mic 2: Wireless, dual transmitter with onboard recording
• Saramonic Ultra-03: Sleek, rechargeable, and ideal for solo video creators
• Rode Wireless ME: Quick and beginner-friendly

Tackle Outdoor Noise While Traveling

When you’re capturing content on the move—whether it’s busy city streets or quiet nature trails—directional shotgun mics and wireless microphone systems help reduce wind and ambient noise so your visuals (and voice) shine.

Pro Tip: For outdoor shoots, always use a dead cat windscreen on shotgun mics and enable your mic’s low-cut filter to reduce rumble.

Try These:

• Rode VideoMicro II: No batteries needed; compact and crisp
• Godox MoveLink II M2: Strong signal and compact design
• Saramonic SR-XM1: Plug-and-go mini mic with wind protection

Flexible Mics for Multi-Platform Content

From YouTube videos to podcasts, livestreams, and Instagram clips, creators need tools that adapt. These external microphones work across multiple platforms and devices, helping you deliver professional audio quality anywhere.

Pro Tip: When using USB mics for remote work or voiceover, check your levels often. Use -6dB as a safe peak to avoid clipping.

Try These:

• Shure MV88+ Video Kit: All-in-one mobile creator mic
• Saramonic BlinkMe B2: App-controlled system with built-in screens
• Hollyland LARK M2: Magnetic lav system with noise cancellation

Sound Better on Livestreams and Zoom Calls

Livestreams and virtual meetings are here to stay. Whether you’re hosting a webinar, doing an online photography class, or sharing behind-the-scenes tips, using an external microphone for streaming or conferencing instantly boosts vocal clarity and presence.

Pro Tip: Use headphones while live streaming to avoid echo or feedback loops. Monitor your levels in real time if your mic allows.

Try These:

• Shure MV7: USB/XLR hybrid ideal for podcasts or streams
• Elgato Wave:3: Creator-friendly with real-time audio mixing
• Saramonic SR-ULM10: USB lavalier mic, plug-and-play simplicity

Final Thoughts

Pairing stunning visuals with crisp, clear audio is essential for today’s hybrid creators. Whether you’re vlogging with a Tamron 20-40mm F2.8 lens or capturing handheld interviews with the Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 G2, adding the right microphone can elevate the final result and increase viewer engagement.

Gear like the Saramonic Ultra-03 or DJI Mic 2 is compact enough to fit in your bag but powerful enough to transform your sound.

Looking to Level Up Your Content Kit?

Explore our Tamron lenses for video-friendly focal lengths and keep an eye on the blog for more content creator gear tips.

Learn more about Tamron lenses at an authorized Tamron dealer near you or visit the TAMRON Store.