Voice over is a form of audio narration that is added to existing film, video or television dialogue. It is often used to add character, provide background information or explain technical details in an easy-to-understand manner. Voice over is often read off-screen by a voice actor or actress, but can also be spoken live by an individual. This type of voice work is common in movie theaters during trailers and movie previews, as well as during live presentations and announcements at events or tourist destinations.
When deciding on a voice actor for your project, it is important to find someone who has the right “voice.” In addition to having clear and pleasant tone, he or she should be able to deliver words with clarity and speed. This is known as eye-brain-mouth coordination, and it’s a skill that professional voice actors spend years perfecting.
It’s also important for the voice actor to have the ability to speak in a variety of voices and accents, as some projects require the use of a specific language or regional dialect. The nuances of these voices can have a huge impact on the overall message and emotion of the video, so finding the right voice is crucial.
One thing that’s also crucial to consider is pacing. Too fast and the viewer won’t be able to keep up, but too slow and the audience may become bored. In order to strike the right balance, it’s a good idea to have your script reviewed by a professional before recording to make sure it’s paced correctly.
Choosing a microphone is another important factor. While it’s possible to record a high-quality voice over using the built-in microphone on a computer, you’ll want to invest in a dedicated audio device. Prices start at $50 for a basic USB microphone that can improve sound quality and eliminate background noise. It’s also a good idea to buy a pair of headphones and speakers so you can listen to your recordings in comfort.
The polar pattern of your microphone is also important to think about when choosing equipment for recording voice overs. An omnidirectional microphone will pick up sound from all directions, which can cause a muddy sound and distract from the focus of your recorded voice. A cardioid microphone, on the other hand, will only pick up sounds from directly in front of it – meaning you’ll get crisp and clean audio for your project.
It’s also a good idea to create a glossary-style section of your script that features any brands, products or terms that might be unfamiliar to a non-voice actor. This will ensure that everyone involved in the production knows exactly how to pronounce your company’s name or any other difficult or unique words. A quick Google search will help you find the correct pronunciations for these words, and you can always ask a friend outside of your industry or business to verify that you’ve pronounced them correctly.
