VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

captain54 · Lucky 700 Joined: 30 Jan 2006 Posts: 744 Location: chicago

My fears and suspicions about getting used to recording at the desk as opposed to the standard standing at the stand in the booth are now founded...

It seems that I've really gotten used to (and cranked out a lot of work, actually) the "speak and click" convenience of setting up the mic on a scissor boom arm at the desk in front of the monitor....

On the other hand, I have no way of knowing whether this has affected my auditioning skills...is there is a subconscious drop in the energy level when you are ready copy at desk while seated on your keyster? I know radio guys sit all day, but I don't have a radio background, I have a theatre background.

The real eye opener to me was the experience of doing a couple of gigs where I had to stand for longer periods, and I felt like I was really really out of breath, pacing and phrasing off..it was not a pleasant feeling...I'm surprised I was even able to pull it off....

how do vo folks with home studios (most of us) handle the sitting vs standing issue?

voicy1stef · Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 2:35 am Post subject:

When I podcast, I sit.

When I do voiceover - auditions/gigs, I stand, unless it's a long sesh - in which case I perch half sitting, half standing on a stool. I can move more freely when standing.

I also do exercises to increase and maintain my breathing/lung capacity. If I don't breath, my VO session comes to a dead stop! [haha, sorry -- couldn't resist! cool

]
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cyclometh · Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 2:38 am Post subject:

When I record long-form, like audiobooks, I sit on a tall bar stool with crossbars I can rest my feet on. That way I can sit upright and get good breath management.

When I record short-form, I stand. I like to emote and it's easier and more natural standing.

Also, my chair makes a lot of noise. Smile

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SkinnyJohnny · Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 3:04 am Post subject:

jsgilbert · Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 8:12 am Post subject:

This could explain the sluggish sales for my new book on recording tips for voice talent working from a hammock.

I'm also thinking that my new noise reduction plug-in designed to remove the sound of hot tub jets from v.o. recordings may not have as large a market as originally thought.
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anthonyVO · 14th Avenue Joined: 09 Aug 2005 Posts: 1470 Location: NYC

"Standing versus sitting" is a discussion with as many points for and against it as there are voice talent. Which one feels best to YOU? Go with that.

I never thought about doing it in a hot tub (voice-over that is) but when I do, JS will get a call from me!

EDIT: One more thing. If you ever find yourself in a studio where the setup isn't to your liking (i.e., standing, sitting, etc.) speak up. Everyone involved wants the best out of you. Simply and politely ask for a setup to your liking.

jsgilbert · Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 11:05 am Post subject:

Anthony,
If you decide to record from your hot tub, give me a call. I have some tips about avoiding issues with the phantom power. I also have DIY plans for building a lucite, waterproof copy stand, and I can give you a 14 day free trial on the plug-in.
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js@jsgilbert.com
www.jsgilbert.com

"today is the first day of the rest of the week"

anthonyVO · 14th Avenue Joined: 09 Aug 2005 Posts: 1470 Location: NYC

Great! We'll skype... or not.

-Anthony

Deirdre · Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 11:36 am Post subject:

I'm in the same league with most folks— sit for long form,, stand for spots and shorter stuff.
Having a bar stool or other high chair is a real valuable thing— keeps your posture straight, but gets you off your feet. It's the perfect solution.

...if you can find one that doesn't squeak! My high seat in Maine gives me the pip sometimes.
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cyclometh · Posted: Wed Apr 06, 2011 2:54 pm Post subject:

Dierdre- I hear you. My reading stool is a bar chair, a high one with a back on it but I chose it specifically because it's got a sealed bearing thing that is totally silent when it moves. I can sit up and put my feet on the crossbars.

My perfect chair is a tall drafting stool with the big heavy metal ring near the base for a footrest and a nice, soft seat.

Tip: Wear socks when you're recording and putting your feet on the crossbar or the ring. I found that my bare feet would sometimes make noise if I wanted to shift them for comfort but socks don't.
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