Tips for Creating Better Voiceovers
As we produce audio projects that require professional voiceovers day to day, we have noticed how some things can impact the quality of the VO. Quality scripting and experienced producers can help a project run smoothly, but there are things voiceover artists can do to streamline the process and improve the results.
Whether you’re considering DIY voiceovers for your personal projects, want to break into the voiceover industry or are a seasoned VO professional, here are some tips and tricks to help you create better voiceovers.
Take care of your voice.
If your voice is your commodity, giving it some tender, loving care makes sense! Before heading into the studio, ensure you’re well-rested and hydrated. If you’re overtired and have a dry mouth, things might not go as smoothly. Take some water into the studio with you and avoid drinking carbonated beverages, as some voiceover artists say they can give you a “cotton mouth.”
Practice the script out loud.
Our writers create scripts that are meant to be spoken. That means they have shorter, clearer sentences with punctuation that allows breaks to take a breath. If there are uncommon words or names, the script will include pronunciations. Reading the script out loud a few times will help you find those breathing breaks and understand how to pronounce anything that might be out of the norm.
Plus, when you are familiar with the script, it will be easier to voice. Practicing beforehand will give your brain a heads-up about what’s coming. So take some time, practice reading it out loud and prepare for the recording session.
Stand up.
Standing up will make your voice sound better. Sitting down or hunching over puts pressure on your diaphragm, hindering your voice's volume, sound, and quality. Plus, when you’re standing, your body can be more animated. Being able to move around, use arm gestures, etc., can sometimes help voice artists get into the script.
Listen carefully.
While practicing, you want to follow any instructions on the script and any given to you verbally by the producer. Then, listen to yourself as you read through it a few times. Does your voice sound like the script or producer describes? Do you need to mark the script so you know the best places to take a breath? Are you voicing too quickly or too slowly?
Listening to yourself and following instructions will reduce the number of retakes and ensure the client is happy with the final VO.
Be mindful of the microphone.
If you’re new at this, you’ll have to practice using the microphone. For example, you don’t want to speak too closely or directly into it. You want a small distance between it, and ensure you’re speaking over it to avoid pops and clicks on your Ps and Ts! You’ll also want to ensure you keep the same distance throughout the entire VO to be consistent and avoid breathing directly into the microphone.
Plus, be careful about waving scripts and shuffling clothing. The little sounds of rustling paper, jackets, and fiddling with the mic stand can all be heard in the audio.
Have questions? Contact us!