To reduce or eliminate picking noise when recording, you can try the following techniques:
Adjust the microphone placement: Position the microphone at a suitable distance and angle from the sound source. Experiment with different positions to find the sweet spot where the picking noise is minimized. Placing the microphone slightly off-axis from the source can sometimes help.
Use a pop filter: Attach a pop filter or a windscreen to the microphone to minimize plosive sounds and sudden bursts of air that can cause picking noise.
Use a noise gate: A noise gate is a useful tool that can be applied during the recording or in post-production. It allows you to set a threshold level below which the audio is muted. This helps in silencing quieter passages and reducing unwanted background noise or picking noise when the instrument is not playing.
Employ proper playing techniques: If you are recording an instrument, try to modify your playing technique to reduce picking noise. Experiment with different finger placements, angles, or plectrums to find the optimal technique that produces minimal noise.
Reduce room reflections: If you're recording in a room with poor acoustics, the picking noise can bounce off the walls and create unwanted reflections. Adding acoustic treatment like diffusers, absorbers, or using a reflection filter can help minimize these reflections and improve the overall sound quality.
Use a noise reduction plugin: In post-production, you can use noise reduction plugins or software to remove picking noise. These tools analyze the audio and can effectively reduce specific types of noise. However, be cautious not to overuse them, as they can also degrade the overall sound quality if applied excessively.
Remember, it's often best to address picking noise during the recording phase rather than relying solely on post-processing. A combination of proper technique, microphone placement, and using appropriate tools will help you achieve cleaner recordings.