Narration is really a form of voiceover all on its own. Like most broadcast documentaries, narration projects are longer format. This would include corporate video (generally under 10 minutes in program length), corporate cd or cdrom (digital corporate message-DCM), and any other form that does not end up on the public airwaves. Choice of voice talent or narrator is a subjective one. What one person hears as a great voice to represent the message…others may find inappropriate. If you have a formula that can determine why people chose the voices they do…call me…I’d love to know.
Broadcast Documentary Narration
This presents a challenge in terms of voice delivery. The voiceover is generally unobtrusive, straight forward and on a lower key. This is not the voice of the town crier…it’s an informative sound. Call it voiceover without attitude. The narrator is generally chosen with an understanding of the audience who will be viewing/listening to the piece. If the voice over content is for a younger audience…a younger sounding narrator is required. If the voice over is for a corporate audience…a stronger more mature delivery could probably work well. An 18-year-old DJ probably wouldn’t work for a Woodstock Documentary…an experienced Classic Rock Jock may not fit with a cooking show. What kind of world would we have without our stereotypes?
What can you use as a guideline to help you make a determination? - Audience in mind - Writing style of author - Other audio (music, sound sfx) - Length of program - Male or female - Client input
When the voice talent or narrator is chosen…delivery style now becomes something to listen carefully for…. determine the style you are listening for before entering the studio. The producer must have a handle on the style of delivery to best suit the project.
Script Considerations
• If words in another language are part of the script the producer must be very familiar with its pronunciation…if there are questions at all…the producer must call out of the studio for confirmation that it is correctly pronounced. • If technical terms are used they must be pronounced not only correctly but smoothly...again confirmation from those who know is a must.
Words to the Voice Talent or Narrator
• Correct breathing is a must. I find taking in a large breath before delivery is best. It can be cut out in post and it allows for a smooth and natural read. By the same token, an in-breath sounds good at certain spots because it sounds natural…and natural works. • The voice talent will read through the script and mark breathing breaks with a pencil so that as the narration continues…the breathing is natural. • Different style treatments (mysterious, astonished, playful, informative) may be called for even within the same script. Transitions here are important…they will usually be supported by music selection or a sound sfx mix…but the voice has to match the mood being set. • It’s always good to have some water in the booth while reading. Dry-mouth creates gum slapping…kinda like you’re eating your words and everyone is listening…water moistens the tongue and cheek and wets the teeth so none of these will create a ‘smacking’ sound. • Apples are good…they work well to prepare the mouth for delivery.
Next Time: Mic technique and a look at a basic home studio.
