What you should know about voice over before you start

Hey Guys! Today I wanted to share with you some things you should know before you start with Voice Over and Audiobook Narration.
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[@thelaughingkookaburrah]

How you speak, the pauses, no word fillers speaks volumes - thank you!

[@thedoreenjames]

Oh my gosh!!! Truer words have never been spoken. I am JUST getting started. At the end of September I registered myself on ACX and had an offer within about 24 hours of that. I was so excited; but things were moving so fast that I didn’t have/take the time to fully understand what I had just agreed to. I had no idea how the pay structure worked and agreed to do it for only about 10% of what I should have charged. I also had NO IDEA how cumbersome the editing would be…or even that I was the one who would have to do it. The author was very understanding and accommodating (which may be in part because she was getting my services for less than it costs to fill a tank of gas). Because I was so unfamiliar with anything to do with audio editing, it was taking me about an hour for every 30 seconds of finished audio. It took me almost a month to finish the project and I forgot all self care in the process. I kept lamenting that “this was not what I signed up for. I wanted to narrate books, not be a sound engineer (which is how the bulk of your time is spent if you’re doing your own production). I was so discouraged and exhausted. They say you must crawl before you can walk. I felt like I’d been dropped straight from someone’s uterus smack dab in the middle of the interstate during rush hour. I was SO unprepared and so frustrated that I didn’t take the time to learn what exactly I was signing up for. I submitted the completed production on Halloween, and it went for sale on Audible about 2 weeks ago. And…I missed an outtake!! 😫 DIY audiobook producing is not for the faint of heart. But I chalked it all up to a learning experience, and I just figure the sample on Audible is like an additional demo piece that I actually got paid to do (even if it was a pittance). I’m now working on building up my own home studio and learning the ins and outs of all the equipment and terminology. But it will be a while before I do another audiobook. I just want to go to someone’s studio, read my lines, and let someone else do the minutia. It is indeed hard work and I have the utmost appreciation and respect for anyone who does the editing. The more I learn, the more self sufficient I become, which is a good thing. But it definitely has not been a fun process. I still want to pursue voice acting, and maybe jumping in blindly was the only way I’d ever do it. Had I known what I was in for, I may have thrown in the towel before ever starting. Subscribing to your channel was one of the things that helped support and inform me during this process. I am so grateful for you and your channel!

[@VoiceOverAngela]

OH my goodness, I literally LOL'd! You are so funny! And you are absolutely right! I jumped in face first as well and learned that there is SO MUCH MORE to this than I had ever imagined... but I was determined to figure it all out and and give it a real, honest go. Im so glad I did, and grateful for all the lessons learned along the way. They've made me stronger and better equipped to handle just about any situation. I too, wanted to be self sufficient and learn all I could and there is still so much to learn. Im glad that my videos have helped you in any way, this is why I share! Best of luck to you, my VO Sister! You will get there, just keep pushing, grinding and moving forward!

[@BrookeSimmons]

I so feel you on spending an hour to get 30 seconds of finished audio! I have learned a ton about editing during those hours spent, but I still have a lot of practice to go before I get to the point where it only takes me 5 hours per finished hour. Right now, even when I'm going really fast, the ratio is more like 8:1! These videos are really helping me get better, so Angela, I really appreciate you (and @TheDoreenJames I really appreciate you sharing your struggles too!).

[@VoiceOverAngela]

@@BrookeSimmons love this! Just keep at it, you will get faster!

[@alyssaramirez4245]

omg poor you! its incredibly intimidating not knowing what the heck to do on a daw editing and everything, very stressful I'm there now sometimes i just want to cry lol and i have cried in frustration staring at my computer but patience and perseverance is key, i completely agree with you on subscribing to this channel, i've learned so much and still continue to do so thank you angela for a being a light for us newbies :)

[@JF-rz3rh]

Same!! I am going through this right now! I purchased all the equipment and It has taken me hours and hours just to record a simple 1 minute sample as I have no idea how to edit the completed work. I have watched how to videos and played with Abdobe Audition for endless hours and it is just even more confusing.. I want to be a Voice Over but NOT a sound engineer🙄🤦🏾😭

[@cokerart]

THANK YOU! Thank you for spelling out the prerequisites, challenges and obstacles clearly! I am a graduate (100 years ago...) of The American Academy of Dramatic Arts and have always been complimented on my speaking voice. Somehow, I never gave that much thought until now and, searching for instructive videos, I stumbled across you. I am slowly moving forward, collecting all the pre-requisite and ancillary items necessary to get started. I will keep you appraised!

[@justtube1672]

I have been checking out VO vids here on KZbin for 4 or 5 days now and this is the FIRST one I've seen attempting to give cautionary, "get real" advice. It has amazed me actually that all the vids have been so encouraging. Anyway, thank you for the much needed common sense advisory!

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Good, I'm glad it was helpful. That was my intention. ❤

[@2sanctuarylab]

I've been recording, editing, mixing, performing......producing music 'live' and in the studio for 55+ years. I am embarrassed to say that it never occurred to me to be a 'voice over' artist or that my engineering skills could be useful to others (other than musicians).....you learn something new everyday. Thanks Angela......You open my eyes to the possible.

[@SongsbyCharleneApril]

@thedoreenjames How is it going? Did you push through? Are you still doing the audiobook voicing?

[@Fidion]

🫎🫎🫎🫎🫎🫎

[@robert_starling]

Hi Angela! I love your channel and your Tuesday live chats! I teach workshops on getting into and succeeding in the film and television industry, and you’re absolutely right about the importance of getting involved and treating it like a business. When I work with consulting clients and teach group workshops, I explain it this way: "Your job isn’t just to be a camera operator, makeup artist, etc. Your *real* job is to build a small business that offers that service." That shift in mindset is key, and covers everything you’re talking about here. Of course, we also need to teach the *how* of building that business, but it's only when they do that work that they can eventually focus on the creative roles they’re passionate about!

[@VoiceOverAngela]

@@robert_starling 💯 You have to treat it as a business, even when you're learning it. That mindset shift is everything. You'll look at it differently when you're the CEO.

[@lauratippetts-burrows471]

This is exactly the realistic perspective I needed! Also, I just read this entire comment section. Thank you all for the insights of how this really goes. I still want to take this route. :)

[@lalie2883]

@lauratippetts-burrows471 from someone considering it for the first time, would you say now that it was forth it?

[@johngreen9372]

I wishmore professions where as honest about themselves as you are

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Thanks John! Xoxo

[@brooklynmurphy2940]

Very very true. I've been in this biz 30 years. It's not easy and takes years to build up. Not to mention, getting an agent too! Thank you for your blunt honesty.

[@amberthurber1213]

This was good to hear. Hard to hear. I just got a simple set up figured out and the more information I get the better.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Absolutely!

[@sharonlarsen3642]

I am starting my journey into voice acting as I come to the end of my original career. I am very happy to have found a channel that can assist in this journey into an unknown world.

[@tonymagnier9846]

Spot on Angela, there's been a notable shift online in recent times. The tech is there now and very affordable in just a short few years, great opportunities for v/o people to become proficient all rounders in the learning curves of tech and marketing side. One downside from what you said here is about always being digitally connected, that could be problematic mid-long term unless you're very diligent and robustly disciplined .

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Absolutely! Diversifying is always good! We are fairly reliant on internet and tech....

[@KittyKatTat]

You could easily have been discussing the journey of becoming an educator in this video. So many people think you just walk in and "teach." WRONG. As if! As a teacher for nearly 25 years before losing my job, I thought it might be fun and genuinely satisfying to narrate children's books part time. I LOVED reading out loud to my students and always made an effort to use the tone, inflection, and affect of the characters while reading stories to help make them come alive. It mattered to them and it mattered to me. But they could "see" me doing the reading. With book narration, it's an entirely different challenge because your voice is there with no image. So essentially your voice embodies the character for your listeners in its entirety. That's no small feat. I also appreciate you sharing that it's a marathon, not a sprint. I'm just starting to learn about narration and had no idea the level of technical prowess involved. It's a bit intimidating. But I'm going to continue watching your videos and explore the possibility of taking on this challenge, armed with the knowledge that - as with every pursuit in life - mastery takes time and there is absolutely no such thing as a free ride. Thanks so much for this reality check.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

@@KittyKatTat thank YOU for your comment. This is definitely a labor of love, as is teaching. ♥️

[@Hanoiswanderer]

Hi Angela, firstly, I wanna say thank you so much for this video. I’m new to voice over business and there’s still lots for me to learn. I don’t know where to start, how to begin, etc. I really really love this career and I take it seriously. There’re so many videos on KZbin talking about how easy it is to start that they created wrong assumptions for me. But not yours, your video showed me the reality of becoming a voice over artist, and it gave me a huge motivation to keep following the path I chose. Thank you again! I really appreciate your advices!

[@danielperryvoiceovers7305]

Great advice Angela… I’m lucky enough to being able take my time starting my VO business. So far for me I’ve found the easiest and most fun part being a VO artist is my time behind the mic. Appreciate your honest assessment

[@richardsuttonsolidrockkingston]

Ive been a professional ACTRA actor for around 15 years now. And I will tell you that the hardest part of the job...was getting in that booth for ADR!!!!! It was TOUGH!!!!! Marathon? Absolutely! Hard work? More than anyone can imagine! But I still want to branch into this. I love reading out loud. It means so much more when you hear it...then just a voice in your head. Glad I found you, Angela!

[@ultimatecrypto3]

Angela, l'm profoundly impressed by your presentation. Your advices are real. I wish l can duplicate and internalize all that you've thought here. But pls may I ask if acx accepts audiobook narration from Nigeria?

[@VoiceOverAngela]

As updates happen all the time, please check with the websites to see where they are currently available. But ACX is only one site, there are many other places to find audiobook work.

[@angelidin8934]

I'm glad that I stumbled upon your video. I want to start and shift to voice-over because it's my dream. You made me realize that I have so much to learn and I need to practice more :) .

[@remazeldagirl2673]

Thank you for your honesty. The recording has been the huge hurdle I have not wanted to tackle. Learning is always fun and energizing though!

[@coacharielandersson]

Appreciate the timing reminder for recording. I submitted 1st time and was shocked when they said it would be 1/4 the time it actually took. Yet, it was super fun!

[@glearned]

Thank you Angela, your words ring true and sound. I am trying to slow myself down and spend a LOT of time listening to podcasts, your videos, and a couple other KZbinrs. Trying to get myself prepared for what I'm trying to accomplish before I start. I am however, having a hard time actually pulling the trigger on starting- I think that's my biggest hurdle right now. I keep telling myself I need to listen to more advice, more prep work... more more more! I'm almost a little bit worried I won't be able to get myself to push the start button, but I want to do it so badly. VO has been my dream since I was very young, and I am still young enough to be able to turn it into a career if I can jump-start my motivation. It's so daunting!

[@pbspublication7008]

Just do it! You will gain nothing from the sideline.

[@niyahblue23]

Procrastination doesn't get you far..no excuses..no delays..having a plan, a thought., million dollar ideas etc and not executing none of it...not putting anything in motion..no action., no motion from you is just a waste of precious time. Do not be offended..do not be sensitive, do not get emotional..people tend to be very defensive..use that energy as your motivation and driving force..nothing to it but to do it..remember these powerful words ..." IF NOT NOW THEN WHEN ?" 💯....We BELIEVE in YOU ! I believe in You!!

[@JerryDugan]

So glad these videos of yours are still up. Very helpful to me. Starting out in VO after ten years of podcasting and it’s been a steep learning curve the past few months ❤

[@VoiceOverAngela]

@@JerryDugan ♥️

[@AlzFighter]

I absolutely love this video.. I am doing voice over for a retirement gig to stay busy. I love doing voice over being avid audible book listener. I am so glad you said this! There is nothing worse than a bad audio book.. Doing it for the money for any line of work just makes for mediocrity. Would never want this for audiobooks!

[@WRVHVIDEO]

Thank you Angela! This was just what I needed to start my journey into voice work. Long time musician and experienced DAW enthusiast, but no formal narration experience. Gonna get out of my comfort zone as you suggested! Wish me luck :)

[@DianeJarecki]

Thank you for this very down to earth advice about what to expect and what one needs to know starting out. Yes, you're very encouraging of newbies to vo work, and this solid bit of reality is something we all need to consider starting out. Thank you for keeping it real. 🙏🧡💜

[@tophudson1]

I've got to say Bravo and We'll Done! This should be the first video anyone interested in VO should watch. I've actually been watching a few of your videos because I'm interested in dipping my toes in the water. I'm not in a hurry. When talking to friends and family about opportunities such as this (perhaps you can make a video on the topic of support from them?), I find that most try to be the devil's advocate, but considering I'm almost 60, I feel like I tend to be better at it than they are (but always appreciate a different view). And I've thought about this topic from the start. I find that until I came across this one, I thought everyone was afraid to broach this subject as thinking that it would sound unsupportive to their viewers. But you found a way to cover this very well. Thank you.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Great idea for a topic! Thank you so much for watching!

[@racquelsearchwell1976]

What great insight. Not a deterrent at all. I'm so excited to stsrt this journey!

[@TomFria]

Good on ya, Angela. This needs to be said. I cringe at the number of content creators that try to convince anyone and everyone that they too can make money through voice over. It has mad it very hard for those of us who have been in the industry for some time.

[@funkydave100]

im a complete rookie to VO to narration and the rest, but i was interested in making extra money lol, i like your style and your honesty and my honest assessment is that your going to do incredibly well producing your videos, because of how you present yourself and your material. If at some point i decide to do VO ill definitely use you as a resource, your the real deal, perhaps a better word is authentic, i like that!

[@ChanellHuntington]

Just recently came across your platform and am thrilled to have found you! After a lot of research and googling, not many voice actors share this type of honesty and it is so appreciated. Thank you for taking the time address these very real points. As someone just dipping my toes into the voice acting world, your tips really helped me reassess why this is something I want to get into, a true passion will show in any line of work. Thanks!

[@hogietunes5193]

I absolutely love your candor honesty and realism. It’s so important that people understand what they’re getting into and what it entails. I come from a broadcasting background decades of music and different DAWS that I had to learn but I have passion, for this is every bit of what you say is 100% Not only that marketing yourself and getting into that market, it can be dog eat dog. APPRECIATE THIS VIDEO 👍🏽

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Thank you! ❤️

[@sherlythomas5632]

Good luck Angela I never heard anyone explain it like you have. Good for you do you own thing....thanks for your explanation of your own experience.

[@ritamm9186]

Thank you so much for this message. I am looking at this as a fun path at this stage in my life (too close to 70) but I want to be realistic. I have had businesses in the past so am cognizant of the amount that goes in behind the scenes. Thank you for your sage advice.

[@thesimpletonreview3531]

Thanks for this. It is hard work. I have spent many hours auditioning at ACX and creating fiverr gigs. And, I am still waiting for my first client. The learning curve is steep. But I am stubborn AND persistent! Not gonna quit.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Awesome! You got this

[@darrenkendall6834]

Angela, thank you for your honest perspective. This is hour 1 after seeing a $2-400 an hour clip for my magnificent voice.. ;) Your Authenticity & Skill set are very impressive! It's an honor... we teach what we needed to know the most. I am grateful! for your voice & knowledge as I audit for my next "Side hustle" -Many Thanks! Coach! Sincerely, Darren

[@AraSozir]

Thank you so much for this video! It was very enlightening.

[@MatthewSlusher-g3r]

I just signed up for ACX and your videos have been extremely helpful! The ones they have on the sight leave something to be desired.

[@jeryjeritza8813]

Thanks for the truth about the VO business. I am just now looking to get into it and have been researching and viewing videos non stop. There is soo much information, both good and bad, out there. I am having trouble just trying to find a starter mic to see if this is something that I will enjoy, and I have been thrown in all directions. I thought this step would be alot easier for me than the Daw system and editing. Im not a spring chicken by any means. I'm 52, and the tech part looks scary to me. I think I have a great spare bedroom that would work for recording with a few adjustments, but I just don't know where to start or who is giving me real advice. At least you keep it real. I'm not looking to do this for the money(although that would be a nice perk) I just really have always enjoyed acting. I live in Thailand so I'm not sure if the platforms will even work for me here. I am sure there is VO work here considering English is Not the native language and they are trying to reach a broader Expat audience with their products and services. Thanks for reminding me this is a marathon and a business. One step at a time.

[@AndyGlover]

Just want to pop in and say how much I appreciate the content you are putting out here, I'm learning a lot about audiobook production right now, and your channel is an awesome resource, thank you!

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Thank YOU, for watching! I'm so glad you find my little videos helpful!!!

[@kamwas333]

Thank you for your honest discussion!

[@repalmore]

You are the first content creator that has spoken about "this is a business". I've had two big business and several side hustles and have some idea what business is all about (mostly?) and have have been approaching this as just that, a business. I haven't even recorded my first line and I already have a sped sheet of expenses to show where each and every dollar. I know a photographer that had $15,000 worth of right offs all of which were less that $50. Had he not worried about every cent he would have missed a huge amount of expenses unaccounted for.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Absolutely 💯% agree

[@thomaso4404]

So glad I found your page! I am narrating my friend's novel and I am really struggling technically. I will follow all lf your social media! I spent hours recording and editing in Garageband all to be rejected by ACX! So I am starting over once I learn some more.

[@ellm6960]

Thanks for the truth, the reality of this!😊

[@jeffstilesmusic136]

Thank you for this honesty!

[@AlinaMedina]

Great video. Lacing up my sneakers for the marathon 🏃🏻‍♀️ Not just for money, but because I’m born to do this. ❤️ This reminds me of a quote someone made about acting. There’s 2 types of actors in Hollywood, one who just wants to be rich and famous and one who just loves to act, even when they’re a small part in a tiny theater. The first lasts a couple years and the second has a better chance at a career.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

❤❤ love this! 🙌

[@5j1kfamilyYouTube]

I just submitted a request to join your Facebook group, your content is so helpful!!!

[@akoneal1162]

Thank you for sharing your information and being honest. I did learn about ACX from one of those KZbin videos "record from your phone" video-lol.. Fortunately, I have only watched 2 videos since and both were yours 😇 I'm not certain if I will do this, yet. It seems like I could have some fun during my downtime from my real job. My name is Angela, too- maybe that's a sign-lol. Many blessing to you. Thanks, again for sharing.

[@rachelweddle1516]

I appreciate your honesty, I stumbled upon a tiktok from a audiobook narrator and fell in love. I listen to alot of audiobooks and I love to read. I'm looking to find a new career now that I'm a stay at home mom, before i had kids I worked in the medical field and that job just isnt realistic now as a mother. I have a podcast and have been told i have a great voice. thank you for your videos.

[@ambermccracken4601]

Very curious how it’s going 4 months later?

[@bigskip56]

Thanks for the insight! I feel like your presentation exposed the less glorious things that are involved in this occupation. I am considering doing this and appreciated your insight.

[@naturalmax8474]

its pretty awesome you care enough to take the time to "ground"those of us just starting in this dream.....Tanks Buddy!

[@shikhaprajwal]

Thank you angela, I have kind of fell in love with you❤❤❤ I love the way you simply say things. Thank you for this video.

[@banyanstudio]

Thank you, Angela, you are the best!

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Awwweeeee thank you!

[@serekithegreat]

Hi Angela! Your videos are so informative and I’m looking forward to joining your VO family on your website. I’m in the process of purchasing all of my equipment to get started and of course I have a million questions, lol. Your videos really inspire us beginners to stay motivated and believe in ourselves. Look forward to getting introduced to your website soon. 🙂🙌🏾

[@enerrod2418]

Thank you very much, yes I believe in your opinion!!!

[@CharlesHaskins-sm9bj]

Thank you Angela for such a useful video - especially for someone like me, as I wonder whether or not to dive in!

[@for_fox_aches]

Thanks for all the help.

[@tinagerhardt2376]

Hi there, I am going to get into this and will take your course. I am currently getting out of another thing I was heavily involved with. I really resonate with this. I guess another thing to think about is that AI (artificial intelligence) is getting into the mix if this as well. I am going to love this! Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@ryanb1657]

this one earned my sub. love the honesty.

[@momiglefoodchannel9271]

Thank you for sharing angela. Great help for beginners!

[@karistamaloney]

I would love to know who was the voice for the audio bible. Hats off to him for sure

[@SydG00001]

Thank you for the advice. I don't feel discouraged, I feel more realistic.

[@ibrahimkamara5537]

Thank you for opening my eyes

[@ElizabethDunn-zi2no]

Thank you for the advice. I really enjoy your voice.

[@gcong2]

Thank you Thank you 3 bag fulls SOOOOO much.

[@simplengulamrecipes7018]

Hello from the Philippines!!! Thank you, Angela. I am so confused with my voice.

[@jamesbloom411]

I love you Angela. Thank you!!!!

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Thank you for watching!!

[@jenniferspisak]

My phone is a potato 😂 but I LOVE to read and as a former singer, I believe putting these two passions together will get me far in the VO industry

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Love it! ♥️ Go for it!

[@lemyaknight]

Most honest video I've heard👍🏽 Thank you so much

[@mikki7384]

Super informative! Thank you!

[@tramable1]

Wow, Thank you so much for your honesty. What wonderful behind the doors advice.

[@laurelmonroevo]

Thanks for the straight talk Angela.

[@TheZeebop2007]

Thanks for sharing your wisdom and encouragement, Angela.

[@rjdimech3014]

Thank you Angela for this video. I started this journey in July. I haven't yet been able to win a project. I was starting to get discouraged. It's a marathon, and I'm still conditioning myself for the marathon.

[@ibrahimkamara5537]

So true

[@jazznutz]

I'm an older dog and having trouble learning everything DIY about videos ,graphics ,editing, mastering, marketing and financial strategies and CRM etc. I didn't really get that i'd have to do everything. Like learn video editing and website building even though there are great DIY programs, it's still a lot to take in and get good at.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Im no spring chicken either, lol. Just take it in and learn it in chunks. You don't have to learn everything, but to be self sufficient, it's recommended. There are many people out there that provide tutorials on KZbin, invest your time in learning. Just don't be too hard on yourself in the process.

[@jazznutz]

@@VoiceOverAngela you're the best! Ty.

[@stephanierucinski6058]

I greatly appreciate your complete honesty! As someone brand new to this - but always had this as a dream - I need to hear it Thank you!!

[@robertocesaretti7456]

Brava Angela, with clear and above all honest explanations! Congratulations. Roberto

[@maewinter2823]

That was great, a lot of people aren’t that honest. Thank you! I will be in touch soon.. :o)

[@juleskentertain]

Thank you so much for the perspective, information and open honesty!

[@Shannon_Robbie]

Can this be done while also working a full-time job? I mean I know the old tropes, if you work hard enough and put your mind to it you can do almost anything. But I mean really, can this be done while working 40+ hours a week at a day job? I want to do this and have previous radio announcing experience but I'm just worried I may be discouraged or overwhelmed since I'm also working a totally different career that currently pays the bills. My main motivation is that I love audio, want to work from home and I dislike my current job situation.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

@Shannon_Robbie i started this working full time 50+ hours a week. I was able to go full time within 2 years. Just keep at it. 😉

[@justnotg00d]

I'll give it a try.

[@johnnymiller3684]

Hi, Angela. I was unable to watch the live stream, but this was great information - as always! I've been slowly beginning to get into the VO industry. It's been slow mainly due to "life events," but also partly due to the overwhelming amount of subjective, yet differing, opinions from experts (I think some of these "experts" give bad advice because they don't want good competition. Lol) Moreover, like you said in the video, there is SO MUCH to learn. With that in mind, I keep circling back to you because you are relatively new to the industry, but also successful. There's a lot to be learned from someone in your position. On the subject of audio, one thing I've been struggling with is my effects chain. I'm blessed (and cursed) with a baritone voice that has some strange and present lower frequencies. I think my effects chain sounds just fine for my voice (for VO), but I can't be too sure. No one in my circle of friends knows anything about VO, so they all say, "That sounds awesome!" (Of course they would! Haha). My question for you is: Can you recommend someone who evaluates VO audio and/or does custom effects chains? P.S. - Thanks for the add to The VO Workshop Facebook page. Maybe I should have asked this there?

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Hi Johnny! Totally relatable, there are so many out there with different opinions, and that's okay. What I do is take it all in, and make my own decisions. Its my business, right? In regards to your effects, if you use adobe audition, Tim Tippets is who you need. Check him out here on KZbin. VO Tech Guru. He creating my presets for me, he is amazing.

[@johnnymiller3684]

@@VoiceOverAngela I use Reaper, but I'm sure that wouldn't matter for professionals such as Tim. The effects that I use are all third-party plugins, so the brand of DAW probably isn't an issue. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@ruffeliz7140]

New subscriber here.... Interested in this voice narration. I hope my voice will do...thank you for your videos...

[@itzelbp]

thank you

[@Voicesbyshawonbrown]

This video was just what I was looking for. I have this pop filter from Hooks. Found it at B and H. I plan to get the seinheiser mke 600. I was looking for the right stand to set up the mic. What are your thoughts about a boom arm desk attachment? (Psa1+) Again thanks for the great info. New subscriber.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Nice! I also use a desk attached boom arm, it works really well. Thank you!

[@bobbykett4693]

Thank you for the video and the encouragement. It's very inspiring.

[@tamarunitamaruni4724]

amazing, holistic content. nothing like it anywhere! Have you Patreon as a thank you!?

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Thank you! I don't actually, that's nice of you to ask!

[@ismaabdulqadeer8142]

I'm about to begin audiobook narration, and learning from you to how to proceed the process. I want to know you that I've seen numerous audiobooks on KZbin too. So to narrate on KZbin, does narrator seek permission from the author or they just narrate any book without asking any writer or authority?

[@Saberguy13]

Hi! Ive been running live sound for my chruch since i was a teen. I'm very interested in getting into this, and because of my background, i rhink my learning curve will be less steep than other people. My question is how part time can i do this? I'm a full time trucker and don't have a ton of free time. Is it possible to get into this at 10 hours a week or less?

[@dantasticguy5435]

Hello from BC, Canada! I am just starting out and am currently working on a business plan in order to nail that down as I acquire equipment and proper space. I'm not worried about making tonnes of money right at the get go as I have a full time job working with high risk youth. I think I know my niche, but want to explore more opportunities. I have downloaded Audacity, but even with some youtube tutorials, it scares me quite a bit. I feel that the learning curve is pretty steep!! Do you have any suggestions on books or videos that may help me in flattening that curve? I appreciate your words about getting started in this profession and i like your honesty! Thank you! I've subscribed and look forward to watching more of your videos!!

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Thank you!! KZbin, is a fabulous place to learn, there are channels dedicated to Audacity, setting up audio equipment, testing different types of equipment, voice over and audiobooks. There are alot of rabbit holes to explore. Learning your DAW is intimidating and tedious, but worth it. You do get better and you'll get more comfortable over time. You got this!

[@dantasticguy5435]

@@VoiceOverAngela luv ya

[@danr.3637]

Thank you for your honest take on what we should know before starting out on a VO career. This was a great video, as it made me realize that voice over work is just not a realistic choice for me! Although I have professional equipment as well as extensive business management and marketing experience, the issue for me is learning audio production. Yikes. I have spent many, many, maaaaany hours trying to learn Audacity, but I just can’t figure out how to do it quickly. It is completely unnatural to me, and the amount of time it takes me to create a usable file is ludicrous. Starting a successful coffee roasting business from scratch was easy; but audio production? It might as well be theoretical physics. My sister has been a voice over artist for 20 years, and has been the voice of some famous video game characters. But she is one of the old school VO artists that you mentioned: she just goes into a studio to read her lines, and engineers do the rest. I thought it would be easy to learn audio production, and I am sure it is for many people. But I would rather have a root canal. Seriously. I once had a root canal that was far less painful than trying to put my brain through the Audacity wringer. My head still hurts. Sigh. Well, at least I always have other irons in the fire. Thank you for the video - much appreciated. Now I just have to figure out what to do with my equipment...Sports announcer? Podcaster? Rock star? 🤔

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Thank you so much for your wonderful and honest comment! I in no way want to dissuade you from learning audio production, but it is quite a challenge to learn a DAW. That's awesome that your Sister is a VO, and has had so much success! I think you should try podcasting! Or Rock Star? Maybe both? You could share your story and what you have learned about all your other irons , and podcast! Make that equipment work for you!

[@danr.3637]

@@VoiceOverAngela Oh, you didn't dissuade me; you were simply honest, and I appreciate that very much. I think I didn't want to give up, even though I would end up losing money doing VO simply because it would take me three months to record and deliver a 30 second project. Then I would get sued for non-performance of a contract, and it would just end up being an expensive hobby ;) But you are right - I should make that equipment work for me! Podcasting my journey to Rock Stardom! I can see my name in lights...or is that the flames from the torches that those people with pitchforks are carrying after hearing me try to sing?

[@VoiceOverAngela]

@@danr.3637 You are hilarious! Your podcast highlighting your rise to Rock Stardom would be very entertaining!

[@ronaldwiggins3226]

Thanks Angela… it is great advice … all businesses take effort and dedication… any ideas of how to audition on ACX from Australia?

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Thanks! If ACX is currently unavailable in your area, you can find audiobook work on most freelance marketplaces, such as fiverr, upwork, guru, freelancer.com etc. You can also reach out directly to audiobook publishers to see if you can get onto their roster as a narrator.

[@farhadalikhankhel3809]

Which software u use for auditions for voice over and it scope in market

[@cyndyleevocals]

I've fallen in love with it, but I'm in the failing miserably stage and getting discouraged 😢

[@VoiceOverAngela]

You're not failing, you're learning. Reframe these thoughts, no stinkin thinkin

[@cyndyleevocals]

@VoiceOverAngela Yes ma'am, you're right. I guess it's just me feeling overwhelmed. As amazing as your videos are, and they truly are, I learn best with 1 on 1 interactions in real time, so I can ask about things as questions arise....so I'm having trouble, because I have to stop, look stuff up, and then restart...plus, this is all very new to me, so it's taking what feels like forever. If I could have you in my studio for a day, getting me set up, that would be the ultimate...however, I understand that's not realistic, so I have to keep plugging away. I love how quickly you can run through things. 1 read, a little editing, and bam... you're done... and your audio/voice sounds great. I want to be there so badly. I'm currently saving for Izotope RX, which is a must have because my mic pics up hundreds of ear clicks, due to inner ear issues. I've been driving myself nuts trying to get rid of them, and audacity did an ok job of it without distorting the vocal, but there are plenty remaining. Anyway, I know I'm gonna make this happen, but it's just not going fast enough, and my soul is slowing dying in retail. I love voice over though. I can be in the studio all day and never get bored...frustrated maybe... but never bored. Thank you again for everything you do to help people like me who are trying to get started. You have a great way of teaching and explaining.

[@sturesonyoung]

Thank you! Do you have any microphone 🎙 recommendations?

[@VoiceOverAngela]

I have a few mic recommendations as well as other gear for your studio on my website, www.voiceoverangela.com/recommended-gear

[@AngieTournado45]

I'm starting voice-over for my story and trying to train my voice to transfer my book into audio; I wanted to ask if you had any advice.

[@VoiceOverAngela]

Take your time, audiobooks are a marathon. Get an external mic and recording software, treat your space. If you need to, you can always hire someone to help with the editing and post production.

[@thelucksboutique1768]

This does sound like fun. However, it's turned into vocal training or speech path since I had an accident I hadn't even noticed that I'm more of a drawl than ever before, besides living in the south, and nasal perhaps from the accident a long time ago. I'm a professional so its quite funny that I would sound nasal and I dont sing salsa which is another personal issue, joking...haha So the point rather is that I improved my voice in one day of training by listening to my voice and then doing breathing exercises. So I think the rest after that is rather editing the nasal pops which is usually when the voice declines. So I'm aware. But now I'm also very prepared I think or rather not. I'm getting static. So as soon as I solve that I'm off an running, I think. The trick, strictly nose breathing and doing that fast and also breathing with my stomach and chest and finding those voices. My voice also sounds best when I dont attempt to ennunciate, I did work on pronunciation in the past, Theater Days, so that's quite funny that I compensate by over ennunciating. So finding your best time when you feel relaxed and able to summon your best relaxed self may work.

[@Frankie-arts]

My daughter is 15 and wants to start. But some of the gigs are for 18+ is there a place she can get vo work?

[@brianfreel1473]

You should be an actress

[@robinsk5644]

Hi Angela... Just wanted to ask if, along with your regular audiobook work, you have ever narrated poetry?

[@VoiceOverAngela]

I have, I think I've narrated just about everything at this point.... :)