I'll be purchasing a shotgun mic in June or July. Would like to know what fellow hunters are using and not some wedding videographer. My budget is tight so I need to keep it under $250. I'm using a Sony HDR-FX1

Thanks.

JIM

i use an audio technica shotgun mic from cambell cameras

Senneheisers are always good! Also the Rode mics are good, shoot there's really plenty of choices to choose from in that price range!

Thanks for the input guys. Do you recommend one model over another? Also, are there certain key features that I need to make sure my mic has. For instance, I noticed some run off your camera battery, others use external batteries. I saw at least one that has a switch to control the "power" of the mic to pic up distant objects and another setting for closer work.

So far it sounds like there are lots of good options, which makes me feel a little more easy about not purchasing a "bad" one. Thanks.

JIM

I have the rode ntg-2 and have zero complaints about it. Everyone that watches our footage compliments how well the audio sounds. You can have the best camera in the world, but if the audio is poor, then the footage is worthless.

I would not recommend the ones that run power from the hot shoe if you are wanting to run multiple mics, etc. I would recommend down the road getting a good wireless mic setup in conjunction your shotgun mic, so the shotgun is really for directional work.

If you are looking for a good mic in that price range you will be limited to Azden or Rode (unless you buy used), the new sennheiser's start at $366 for the ME66s and go up from there. Unless of course ifyou are looking for a mini jack mic. then the Mke400 is in your price range.
Nothing wrong with the Azden's, I would however stay away from phantom powered only mics. as they will drain your camera battery fairly quickly.