Recording Tips

Before the Recording

1. Choose the right app:
   • Use your phone’s built-in voice recorder app, or
   • Download a specialized recording app (e.g., Voice Recorder Pro, Easy Voice Recorder)
2. Test your equipment:
   • Do a test recording to check audio quality
   • Listen back with headphones to catch any issues
3. Prepare your phone:
   • Ensure you have enough storage space
   • Charge your phone fully or bring a portable charger
   • Switch to airplane mode to avoid interruptions
4. Consider external microphones:
   • A lavalier mic can significantly improve audio quality
   • Ensure compatibility with your phone (you may need an adapter)

During the Recording

1. Phone placement:
   • Place the phone closer to the interviewee than yourself
   • Use a phone stand or tripod for stability
   • Avoid setting the phone on surfaces that might create vibrations
2. Room choice:
   • Select a quiet location with minimal background noise
   • Avoid rooms with lots of echo (like empty halls)
3. Audio levels:
   • Start recording before the interview begins to check levels
   • Speak clearly and ask your interviewee to do the same
4. Backup:
   • If possible, use a second device as a backup recorder
5. Monitoring:
   • Periodically check that your phone is still recording
   • Be mindful of storage space for longer interviews

After the Recording

1. Immediately save and backup the recording
2. Listen to a portion to ensure quality
3. Label the file with date, interviewee name, and topic for easy reference

Additional Tips

• Inform the interviewee that you’re recording and obtain consent
• For video interviews, ensure good lighting and a stable camera setup
• Practice using your chosen app before important interviews
• Consider using a pop filter if you’re close to the microphone

Remember, the key to a good interview recording is preparation and attentiveness to your equipment and environment.