What is the name of a highly directional microphone that must be pointed directly at its target sound source for proper recording?

A highly directional microphone that must be pointed directly at its target sound source for proper recording is known as a shotgun microphone. This type of microphone is designed to capture sound from a narrow area in front of it while rejecting sound from other directions, making it ideal for situations where focus on a specific sound source is necessary, such as in film production or interviews.

The design of a shotgun microphone typically includes a long, narrow pickup pattern, which allows it to isolate sounds from the target source and minimize background noise, providing clarity in the recorded audio. Its effectiveness hinges on proper placement and directionality, underscoring the importance of aiming it accurately towards the sound source for optimal performance. Other types of microphones, such as dynamic or condenser microphones, serve different purposes and may not offer the same level of directionality needed in these specific recording scenarios.