What kind of external microphone for a DSLR

Spend a few extra bucks on a Rode video mic. I know a ton of low budget guys who use it on their DSLR and love it. The sound quality is great for the price.

As long as you have more than $100 to spend, you have no problems. The Sennheiser and R0de NTG2 are good choices to start with, and cost less than $200. I'd also invest in a good outboard audio mixer; there are several designed for DSLR use. Pick up a copy of HDVideoPro magazine (the October issue has a small piece on shotgun mics) and browse the ads for the gear you'll need.

I got into video after doing pro audio, so I was well prepared. If you don't have any sort of audio training, you might want to take a class or get a book. Tomlinson Holman wrote a couple great books about audio for film, but they aren't light reading. His book "Sound for Digital Video" might be a great "bible" for you though.

Sound for video is every bit as important as lighting for video. And just like you need to know the basic lighting fixtures and how to use them, you'll need to know the microphone types, how to mix sound etc.

My audio for video gear includes a couple of shotgun mics, a couple of wireless "body pack" units and a couple of Shure SM58 general purpose mics that can be used for everything from voice-over work to podium use or to pick up ambient sounds. I have a simple yet flexible 4-channel in (w/EQ), stereo plus aux out mixer with a good built-in headphone amp for when I need more than my pro camcorder has to offer. If I need still more, the rental house is just down the road, and they know me well.

Be prepared.

Hi,
Do not forget to order a wind muff. It is very important if you are outside. I have the Rode Dead cat. It goes about 30$ and is 100% worth ist money.

Sergeo