Tip 1: Get good sound  Tip 2: Beware the built-in sound limiter  Tip 3: Watch out for magnetic or radio interference

Submitted by: Annaliza Savage Film and television producer and director  Learn more about Annaliza

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Most consumer MiniDV camcorders won't let you set sound levels manually. The camera has a built-in sound limiter that keeps the audio signal from distorting to tape. The audio limiter is used as a protective device for the camera, but it can work against you as well.

For example, a sudden loud noise will cause the camera's sound limiter to kick in, making your sound levels suddenly drop across the board. This is a big concern in interview situations where a word may abruptly be dropped out in midsentence.

If you're taping an interview and a car backfires or a door is suddenly slammed shut, you may want to ask the person to repeat what he or she was saying, just to be on the safe side.