While the on-screen elements of a video are what makes it a video, the voice track provides the framework for people to really understand the information on screen. This is especially true for videos intended for blind or otherwise partially sighted viewers. A muffled or unclear audio track can leave viewers frustrated and unable to get the most out of the video. For this reason, choosing the right voice over is vital for any video project.
As you’re seeking out voice over work, be sure to check the quality of your recording equipment and software before starting any projects. The built-in microphones on laptops usually produce poor sound quality and may even pick up stray noises, so it’s best to purchase an external mic (prices start at $50) and audio software. Before you begin recording, make sure to run a test script first and listen back to it for clarity, tone, and pacing.
A voice over can be used in many different ways, from a commercial on TV or radio to a narration on a DVD or CD. It can also be used in the production of animation and video games, and even for live events such as announcing announcements or tourist destinations.
There are dedicated organizations for voice actors, who often have their own websites that feature samples of their work. In addition to this, there are a wide variety of freelance opportunities available online for people who want to record voice overs. These include websites that act as a matching service between those who need to create a video or project with a professional voice over, and those who can do the voice over work.
The world of a voice actor continues to expand, with dedicated voice over directors who function much like casting agents. The director can then use their connections to help match a person who needs the voice over with someone who does it. Using this method can save time for both parties and ensure the best possible results.
Voice acting is also useful in filmmaking, with some scenes having dialogue replaced in post-production. This is called dubbing or revoicing and is common in foreign films.
While the vast majority of voice over is recorded through the various tools and at-home techniques mentioned above, there are some projects that require a person to be in a studio for the recording. This is often the case for animated movies and video games, where the director wants to be able to see the face of the character they’re animating.
When creating a video project, consider using double-spacing in your script for easier reading for the voice actor. This simple formatting change can make it easier for them to read the script quickly and accurately, improving the overall quality of the video. It’s also helpful to note in the script if there are words that are difficult or unfamiliar for the voice actor, and how they should pronounce them. voice over