IN THIS LESSON,
10 TIPS FOR
BUILDING YOUR VOICE OVER SKILLS… (part 1)
#1-Find Your Voice
A lot has changed over the
years regarding the ideal voice over sound that big, deep drawl we’ve come to
associate with standard voice overs. Today’s average voice over is much more
conversational and casual. Gender doesn’t seem to matter either. This is good
for the first-time narrator since you don’t have to supercharge your voice to
get a recording that sounds current. However, you do need to speak clearly and
decide where your voice character fits in the narration spectrum.
#2-Slightly Larger Than Life
While
your normal speaking voice may be fine in person, it loses a little something
in a voice over. Finding the balance between natural
speech and enunciation is a great place to start. Using a test recording or
two, listen to your voice and make notes for any slurred phrases or vague words.
They’re usually easy to correct with some practice. In addition, push your
vocal inflection and emotion too. Listen to the playback as you practice and
you’ll hear the change.
#3-Know the Material
Reading through a script for a
30-second commercial is easy, but what if your project is much longer and
contains unfamiliar names and terms? The time spent in preparation makes the
final performance that much easier. Knowing how things fit together in the
final product will help with pacing. Don’t be afraid to add some emotion and
excitement to the reading when necessary and rehearse out loud. The script
sounds different in your head. This will also identify any trouble words or
phrases.
#4-Good Gear
You can get a great recording
with nothing more than a pocket recorder, windscreen and a pair of headphones.
A more traditional approach includes a separate microphone, audio interface,
computer and software.
Also, there are several USB
microphones on the market at very competitive prices. Whichever path you
choose, consider how you will use this equipment in the future and make sure it
plays nicely with you and your production style.
#5-Standing Delivery
Consider recording your voice
over standing up. Why? There are two very good reasons. First, standing opens
your breathing and makes it easier to speak clearly and consistently. By
removing the compression on your breathing muscles, you make it easier to take
deeper breaths. In addition, a standing position allows you to be more
animated. This is a good thing. In fact, get your whole body into the
performance. Imagine you’re speaking to one specific person and let go. Point,
nod, wave your arms, whatever it takes. Believe it or not, these motions impact
your delivery and can be heard (in a good way) on the finished recording.
DOWNLOAD LINK
IN OUR
5TH LESSON, I’LL CONTINUE WITH THE REST OF THE 10 TIPS FOR BUILDING YOUR VOICE
OVER SKILLS.
Thanks for sharing this information. I found it very informative as I have been researching a lot lately on practical matters such as you talk about..
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