I just did an audio gig with NBC at a gun range, and also am a regular at my local one. I have also shot safety videos for a local indoor shooting gallery.There are certain rules that the range must follow, not just for safety, but for insurance and in some cases, local law.
You cannot shoot from over the firing line. They may let you go downrange and set up a lockdown or maybe hang a Go Pro, but not while the range is active. Keep in mind, anything you put downrange may not come back. Even the best shooters stray sometimes.
We hung a Go Pro 3 on a arm out just in front of our shooting lane. It was a very good shot. Pun intended.
Audio is pretty simple. Close lav anyone you are wanting to talk to, underneath the clothing, and flatten out the response as much as you can. Keep in mind, if there are multiple shooters active, the audio is what it is. If you are looking for clean, pristine audio while there is an active range, stop looking. The sound of guns are part of the story, and the fastest way to get pure clean audio is to stop anyone from firing while talking. If there's only one or two shooting though, you'll be surprised just how clear a good mic picks up audio.
Sound pressure levels-just ride the audio. You don't need a boom 3" from the gun while it's firing. You will want it closer in while loading and cocking the gun. Unless you have extra mics, baffling will be more a slowdown than help.
Be careful where you are standing. Semi auto fire guns eject very hot shell casings, usually out the right side (you can get guns with left side eject, but they are rare). Make sure you have a clear filter over the lens. You'll also need to have a lens cloth handy, as gunpowder gets on everything. Including you. Don't plan on going thru airport security afterward without showering.
This is all based on knowing nothing about your situation regarding access. Never, ever walk over the line if the range is not shut down. But if they let you do it, position the HFR camera closer in, as when the gun fires, the recoil may force it out of frame as the casing ejects. It depends on the gun and the ability of the shooter. Take a few minutes and just watch them shoot...you'll have a better idea then.
Safety-the range officer is responsible for your safety, but so are you. It's not a complicated shoot, but safety is the main thing. Always wear eye and ear protection. Ear plugs are fine, but make sure they are seated in your ear....one shot without and you are going to feel it. It's a pain to shoot with safety glasses, but do it anyway. You don't want a shell casing to hit you in the eye. Expect if you are close, some may hit you and the camera. It might sting for a second or two.
Wear boots. You'll be stepping around casings all over the place most likely. It's much more comfortable.
Again-it's actually very easy, just do as the range officer says, and you'll have an easy time. If you've never fired a gun, ask to try it. Especially if they are shooting AR-15s. Contrary to uninformed opinions, the AR is a very accurate weapon, and easy to shoot.
Have fun, and above all, safety first!
