What is the microphone type that often comes with a clip for attaching to clothing during interviews?

The lavalier microphone, commonly referred to as a lapel mic, is designed specifically for hands-free operation, which makes it ideal for interviews. It typically comes with a small clip that allows users to attach it directly to their clothing, such as a collar or tie. This feature ensures that the microphone captures audio clearly from the speaker without being intrusive or requiring them to hold it. The compact size and clip-on design also help maintain a natural appearance during interviews or presentations, making it a popular choice in film and television production as well as for journalism.

In contrast, shotgun microphones are generally mounted on boom poles or cameras and are aimed at the sound source; handheld microphones require the user to hold them, making them less suitable for free movement or multiple speakers in an interview setting. Boundary microphones are designed to capture sound in a specific area and are often used in conferences or studio settings, rather than for individual speakers in a direct interview format.