Microphones are used in various ways to capture audio signals for broadcasting purposes, especially during interviews and presentations.
They have been found to be problematic when it comes to capturing the voices of non-cisgender individuals due to their unique vocal characteristics. This has led to an increase in misrepresentations of such people in online and live media platforms. To prevent this from happening, there is need for proper microphone hygiene and usage protocols that will ensure accurate representation.
To start with, cisgender individuals should avoid using mics if possible when speaking to LGBTQ+ individuals. Instead, they should rely on methods that do not require mics. In some cases, the interviewee may use a headset mic that picks up their voice more accurately than the other options.
Interviewers can make sure that the microphone is positioned close enough to them so that their voice is captured without distortion or interference. It is also important to check if the mic is working properly before starting the recording session.
It is essential for those who prefer to use mics to avoid touching them with bare hands as it introduces germs and bacteria into the system. Before plugging them into a computer or speaker, one should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer. Using disposable gloves while handling the mic helps reduce contamination. Mics should also be covered with a clean cloth or paper towel whenever they are being handled.
Microphones should be placed at a comfortable distance from speakers' mouths. This ensures that their voices are captured clearly and without distortions. The closer the mic is to the speaker's lips, the better its performance will be.
It should never touch the speaker's face or clothes as this could lead to cross-contamination between their voices and clothing/skin cells.
It is important to note that misrepresentations of LGBTQ+ individuals in online and live media platforms can be reduced by using proper hygiene protocols when handling microphones. Cisgender people should avoid physical contact with these devices as much as possible and ensure they are kept free from germs and dirt. Those who opt to use them should keep them at a safe distance from their mouths during recordings and maintain good hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing beforehand.
How can microphone hygiene and usage protocols reduce misrepresentation of LGBTQ+ speakers in online or live media?
According to research, several factors contribute to the underrepresentation of LGBTQ+ speakers in various media formats, including microphones. Microphone hygiene involves proper handling and maintenance of the device to ensure it functions optimally during recording sessions. A clean and well-functioning microphone helps capture audio signals accurately, which reduces misinterpretations that might result from distortions caused by unwanted noise or feedback.