Making shotgun microphone covers requires only a few materials.
One of the key challenges when recording film dialogue with a shotgun microphone is fighting the elements of the outdoors, especially heavy rain. In addition to the poor sound quality that can be generated from water hitting a mic, there's also a substantial risk of electrocution or mic failure from moisture. If you don't have the time or money to purchase a prefab shotgun mic cover, there are a few easy steps to making one on your own.
Instructions
1. Take the waterproof cloth and wrap it around your microphone. Some examples of widely available waterproof cloth include GoreTex and SympaTex. However, the cheapest and most widely available option is closely-woven cotton, which should be available at any fabric store. If possible, encase the microphone in a "zeppelin," a hard plastic sheath, first. Measure carefully and cut the cloth to fit around the microphone. Do the same with the polyester batting.
2. Carefully wrap the waterproof cloth around the mic and secure it with rubber bands, using an absolute minimum so as to keep from blocking the microphone's reception. Another option to secure it would be to add a few small strips of gaff tape. Test the microphone to make sure its performance is unimpeded; pay especially close attention to the frequency response from off-axis, which will be greatly reduced. Wrap the polyester batting around the microphone and secure it.
3. Take the microphone to a dry place and check it periodically to ensure that no water is getting on the mic. As the batting becomes sodden, replace it. Since the microphone will now be encased in a heavier cover that will cause the water to flow down the sides of the zeppelin and drip off the tip, be careful when shooting to not get any drips in frame. Before shooting, be sure to discuss with your director any risks to yourself and the boom operator.
Tags: waterproof cloth, around microphone, cloth around, polyester batting, shotgun microphone, widely available