VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

Robert D. M. · Contributor Joined: 08 May 2008 Posts: 29

Hello,

I'm a former broadcaster/writer (male) with voiceover experience from the olden days, now preparing to re-enter the field to handle some VO requests from former clients.

Because I'm new to much of today's recording technology and its impact on the field, I'm hoping you may have some advice/guidance in the following areas.

For the foreseeable future, I'll be spending time with an ageing relative and will be located far from audition sites, professional studios and people under ninety. With good recording gear, a quiet studio space and a high-speed connection, is professional participation in this industry possible/viable despite that comparative geographic disadvantage?

Further to that point--and fully understanding the subjective nature of the issue--could I ask for some real-world assessments, from both established pros and beginners, of the potential for, say, moderate success of a skilled, hard-working voice talent who's experienced in marketing and working strictly from home? (If there are daring opinions regarding income estimates in that situation, based perhaps over a five-year period, I'd be grateful and delighted to hear them. I do know there are a million variables and I'd allow for all of them in any feedback.)

Thank you all for your time; I really appreciate your insights.

Deirdre · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2008 7:25 am Post subject:

Dear Robert!

I live in South Berwick, Maine.
I've been enjoying a very nice bit of good fortune, thanks to the internet.
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Edo · Guest

Hey Robert, welcome to the forum. I suggest you use the search function for there's a wealth of info to be found there. There's a lot of us that actually work in a homerecording environment, so lots of thought to be shared. In general I wouldn't be too intimidated by "today's gear requirements", it's the driver not the car that makes a smooth ride anyway.

You'd better decide way in advance what it is you'd like to spend on your project. Fix a budget for yourself and add some later for unforeseen issues you might encounter when setting things up. There's all sorts of ways to approach VO-ing from home, but acoustics and mic placement are important issues that need looking into first. You might want to avoid any "early reflections" for they will sure ruin whatever professional quality is supposed to be. I'll be more than happy to get into specifics when you get to that point.

Basic needs would include a computer (PC or Mac) and some simple recording/editing software. Find stuff that works for you, don't get stuff because the guys across the street have it too. That said, it could be wise to use a platform that is widely used, for then there'll be lots of people who can help you out of experience.

Don't think along the lines of having to have a mixer, for that thought has been long gone. Nowadays we use a 'single channel mixer' (by means of a channel strip or microphone preamp) that interfaces between your microphone and your computer. Monitoring is an important issue as well, so either way get yourself a nice set of headphones and maybe some powered speakers to be able to thouroughly HEAR what you were recording. Especially when you'd need to do stuff 'fully produced'.

Any other questions you might have, after searching the tremendous archives in this here fine forum... more than welcome! Nice to have you on the board!

(oh and one more thing... if we sometimes sound like we're over ninety, don't worry... it's called voice acting) Sarcastic

Robert D. M. · Contributor Joined: 08 May 2008 Posts: 29

Thank you, Edo, for the good advice. I'll search, absorb and, no doubt, eventually take you up on your kind offer to answer another question or two.

All the best!

Robert D. M. · Contributor Joined: 08 May 2008 Posts: 29

Hi Deirdre,

Glad to hear of both your own good fortune and the internet's favorable role. Makes things much easier when you can operate from 'virtually' anywhere.

Philip Banks · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2008 9:08 am Post subject:

If this helps; my most recent voice job was for CNN in Atlanta, I did it a few hours ago from my home in Portgordon www.portgordon.org.uk

CarynClark · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2008 9:10 am Post subject:

So, you're gonna be in Fort Myers, FL?

Ha ha.
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Caryn Clark... The Hip Chick Voice!

"A positive mental attitude and having faith in your ability is quite different from being irresponsible and downright stupid." - Dave

imaginator · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2008 9:16 am Post subject:

welcome!

one point not touched on in previous replies: you say you're experienced in marketing. in my opinion, that will help you greatly as you set up your "remote" location. marketing skills are often overlooked as a vital component for getting started.
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rowell gormon
www.voices2go.com
"Mr. Warm & Friendly Voice...with Character!"
Rowell Gormon's Clogged Blog - http://voices2go.com/blog

Jowillie · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2008 10:59 am Post subject:

Opportunities are unlimited. Particularly since you have the experience of broadcast marketing. The secret may be in filling the needs of a particular niche market.
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Wild Willie Edwards
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http://vomictest.blogspot.com

Robert D. M. · Contributor Joined: 08 May 2008 Posts: 29

Thanks for the informed insights and advice (I was told the quality of opinion and cooperation here were high).

--Robert

bobsouer · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2008 1:39 pm Post subject:

Robert,

Welcome to the VO-BB. I don't have anything to add to the cogent advice you've all ready received, but I wish you the very best. Let us know how we can help you.
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Be well,
Bob Souer (just think of lemons)
The second nicest guy in voiceover.
+1-724-613-2749
Source Connect, phone patch, pony express

Lizden

Yoda117 · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2008 2:11 pm Post subject:

robert jadah · Guest

Deirdre · Posted: Sat Jun 28, 2008 3:08 pm Post subject:

I don't think the income thing is "taboo".
Some of us are shy, others don't want to brag, and still others are Philip Banks.
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