Are you considering a career in voice-over acting or trying to make your big break?
You probably already know, as a freelancer, you will need a dedicated area in your home that is comfortable with minimal distractions to reach your goals.
Building out a voice-over studio in your home will serve you well. A spare room, garage, or even large walk-in closet, with the right elements, can transform into the personal voice-over workspace of your dreams.
If you are ready to create your own space, here are a few things to consider before you fork out the cash...
There are a lot of options available for a budding freelancer looking to create their own voice-over studio with a smaller budget. Just be sure you get all the basics:
Microphone: It’s hard to say what is most important as far as equipment goes, but a microphone is a no-brainer when it comes to voiceover work. You can find quality USB-microphones that are perfect for just starting and won’t purge your wallet.
Microphone Stand: A must-have accessory. No one should be handling a microphone while recording a voice-over. You will need to have something fixed to a desk or stand for your microphone to sit on to prevent uneven sound.
Computer: You most likely have a laptop, especially if you are freelancing already. However, keep in mind that you’ll need a computer that can handle a lot of files and has room for recording and editing software.
Headphones: You need a good set so you can hear your own recordings without distracting sounds which will interfere with your own self-editing.
Pop Filter: A pop filter cancels out the noise picked up when a microphone is in use. It works as a screen to filter out excess sound while recording.
Shock Mount: Another necessary tool to prevent noise transmitted from handling a recording device. If your microphone is mounted, it will not pick up all the vibrations happening from interfering sounds.
Recording & Editing Software: You cannot record professional-sounding material without proper recording and editing software.
Audacity is a great option if you are on a budget. It is a free, open-source cross-platform software designed for voice-over recording. However, there are many options that come with a monthly subscription to explore.
Needless to say, try your best to create a budget and stick to the basics. You can find all the things you need to equip your studio without spending a phenomenal amount of money. Plus, you can still have the professional standards required to successfully build out your clientele.
If you want to create quality voice-over work at home, soundproofing is absolutely fundamental. Also, adding acoustic treatment to a room makes a huge difference. Both are incredibly helpful and easy to do yourself, even on a budget.
First, you will need to consider where your space is and what sort of sound could be reflected in that space. It could be a neighbor’s shared wall, a bathroom, or living room that will likely let all the excess noise in. It causes distortion and will ruin your recording.
Your main goal should be to absorb and diffuse unwanted sound.
This can be done by adding mass to your designated room. The mass takes up empty space that lets noise loose, which then bounces around and is picked up by your equipment if not controlled.
You can add seals to doors, windows, or any other parts of the room where the air is likely to escape (which also lets the noise in or out).
If you are ambitious and skilled to do so, add an extra layer of drywall. It will help a lot with noise reduction. Even adding soundproof curtains, carpeting, or acoustic foam will isolate sounds from inside and out.
To recap, you need to budget and acquire the best equipment you can.
Designate an area to do the work necessary to make your new home studio an oasis for sound-enhanced recordings.
By doing this, you will have the perfect area to get away from the rest of your home so you can complete your projects without the distorted noise and distractions of the outside world.
Virtually every industry has a need for voice-over work. Whether it is a marketing or advertising campaign, work in animation or how-to videos, human voices are more desirable than ever.
There are many platforms available offering services for freelance voice-over actors. Fiverr is a great resource for voice-over gigs and offers a versatile environment for freelancers to develop and expand their creative portfolios. Get started today and start earning money with your unique sound.
