The biggest question I have for you is what kind of camera will you be using? Typically, the more expensive the camera, the better the audio input options - both in terms of connections and circuitry. Cheaper cameras tend to offer 1/8" inputs and also have AGC (automatic
gain control) circuitry, which can wreak havoc on a properly mixed audio input. Pro cameras, on the other
hand, usually offer
XLR (often times two) inputs, and probably won't have AGC, or will allow you to turn it off. This will be deciding factor as to how you proceed.
If you will be recording on a pro camera, I would simply
send the signal directly from the preamps into the camera. You may not even need the preamps depending on the camera - some even offer +48V and a full range of
gain.
If you will be recording onto a cheap camera, I would suggest taking the video from the camera and recording onto a DVD recorder or a good VCR. This will allow you to get good quality audio that is not mucked with by the camera's AGC circuitry.
With regard to mics, there are two real options that I see (unless it will be a newscast). The first is the
purchase of a quality
shotgun mic and the necessary
boom equipment so that it can be suspended above the frame. Be sure to get a
windscreen too, so that wind does not cause problems.
The second option is the
purchase of a wireless mic
system, preferably something equivalent or better than the
Shure SLX series. Get the
lapel option, and if the WL93 that it comes with is too big for your needs, invest in a smaller
lapel mic that is more easily concealed. Finally, strongly consider hiding the mic in the hair so that it is not visible - it will make the video look more professional.
One thing to consider with
lapel mics, however, is the possibility of
phase cancellation if you have two actors face-to-face with both of their mics on. You will need to pay close attention to situations like this and if the actors get close to one another, turn off one mic. This won't be an issue of you use a
mono shotgun mic.