Definition & Meaning of "shotgun microphone"

What is a "shotgun microphone"?

A shotgun microphone is a highly directional microphone designed to pick up sound from a specific area while minimizing background noise. It has a narrow pickup pattern, often resembling a long, thin tube, which allows it to focus on sound coming from directly in front of it. This type of microphone is commonly used in filmmaking, television, and outdoor recording to capture clear audio from a distance and reduce unwanted sounds from the sides or rear. The shotgun microphone is ideal for recording dialogue or specific sounds in noisy environments or when the sound source is far from the recording equipment.