Audio-video Recording Session Checklist

Contributor(s): David Germano

_ Pack all equipment carefully
_ Charged batteries (camera, mikes)
_ Camera
_ Tripod
_ Microphones with cables
_ Headphones for monitoring audio
_ Tapes (if using tape cameras)
_ SD Cards (if using digital cameras)
_ Blank Forms/pen (consent notice, participant biodata form, audio-video recording documentation form)
_ Have two staff to do recording, or find an assistant if you are alone – one to focus on person and situation, one to focus on

audio-video quality issues.

_ Check possible recording locations for light, sound, and context; once chosen, determine best site and orientation for performers therein
_ Unpack equipment and set up tripod, camera, and microphones
_ Check sound with headphones and light/exposure with camera
_ Before starting the formal recording, read the permission script and get assent on camera
_ During recording, avoid zooming in and out and panning of all types; constantly monitor visual quality and audio quality. Watch for too dark pictures that might look ok in camera view but in end on computer. Monitor for too low audio levels by constantly listening with headphones.

_ After recording, get permission form and biodata forms filled out.
_ Do the basic preliminary filling out of the audio-video recording documentation form so you don't forget later that day.
_ Mark tape labels clearly with date and content and ID # referenced on permission/biodata forms; pack in container for recorded tapes
_ If used SD cards, put in the holder for used cards, and jot down SD card ID number on the audio-video recording documentation form

_ Put tapes/SD Cards in your tape logs with ID, date and content.
_ Fully document the recording session in the audio-video recording documentation form
_ Review tapes/cards for audio-video quality issues (rewind tapes to beginning when finished)