The Biggest Mistakes To Avoid in Voiceover Recording, So You Don't Look Like a Noob

Hey there velvet voice veterans! Are you tired of sounding like a monotone robot or a screeching banshee in your voiceover recordings? Relax, because I've compiled a list of common mistakes to avoid when recording your voiceover and the best ways you can deliver your perfectly poised performance.

Mistake #1: Not hydrating before recording: Let's start with the basics. Your voice is a muscle, and just like any other muscle, it needs to be hydrated to function at its best. So, before you hit that record button, make sure you have a glass of water handy. And no, coffee does not count. Unless the script calls for you to sound like a parched walrus...

Mistake #2: Recording in a noisy environment: Do you really want to hear your neighbor's dog barking or your roommate's off-key singing in the background of your recording? Yeah well, neither do your clients. Make sure you record in a quiet environment, free from any distractions or background noise. That means turning off the TV, putting your phone on silent, and, if necessary, kindly asking your noisy neighbors to just "...keep it down...?!"

Mistake #3: Not rehearsing your script: Do you think Mariah Carey shows up to a concert without practicing her songs? Of course not! The same goes for voiceover recording. Rehearse your script several times before recording to ensure you know the pacing, tone, and inflection you want to use. This will help you deliver a natural, confident performance.

Mistake #4: Overdoing it with the vocal fry: Ah, the infamous vocal fry. You know what I'm talking about - that creaky, croaky sound that can make you sound like a Kardashian on a bad day. While it may seem like a trendy vocal style, overdoing it with the vocal fry can actually damage your vocal cords and make you sound unprofessional. So, use it sparingly, if at all.

Mistake #5: Forgetting to breathe: You know what's not cool? Passing out in the middle of a recording session. So, remember to breathe! Take deep breaths before starting each sentence, and don't be afraid to pause and take a breath in the middle of a sentence if needed. Your voice will thank you.

Mistake #6: Rushing through your script: We get it, you're a busy person. But rushing through your script like you're trying to win a speed-talking competition is not going to impress anyone. Take your time, speak clearly, and enunciate each word. Your clients will appreciate the effort, and you'll avoid sounding like a chipmunk on steroids.

Mistake #7: Ignoring the tone of the script: Are you recording a serious, somber script? Then why are you delivering it with a perky, upbeat tone? Pay attention to the tone of the script and adjust your delivery accordingly. This will help you connect with the audience and deliver a more authentic performance.

So those are my suggestions for helping you put your best vocal chord forward!. Avoid these common voiceover recording mistakes, and you'll be well on your way to delivering your best performance yet. And who knows, maybe you'll even land that gig as the voice of the next big animated movie. Just don't forget to thank me in your acceptance speech.