Probably the most important question. There is a clear route to working in VO; a route that I can guide you through after during recording session. If you follow the advice you'll be able to set-up your career and open up the many opportunities available. You’ll leave with a solid plan in place. The wonderful stories I hear from clients over the years are from the ones who worked through the plan and stuck with it. There is so much work out there; it won’t come to you, you have to seek it out but when you do the exciting, lucrative and varied world of VO will open up.  If you are interested in more formalised training or regular coaching head to ► Voiceover Kickstart

As technology becomes cheaper, there are new voice reel providers popping up each year. This is great because I love a bit of competition. However, there is a vast chasm of difference between plugging in a microphone to really grafting over every detail of the tracks. I’ll work closely with you at every step of the way but when it comes to the production I don’t do any on the day of recording. All the time ‘in session’ is dedicated to you the performer. The production is carried out over the next few days and this is a very detailed and intricate process. For example, the Commercial Reel takes on average 6 hours to produce. 

You certainly can yes. Imagine the situation where you start to apply to the big Voiceover Agents and send them your cheap demo. I’ll leave that there. The only way a Voice-reel company can function in the bargain basement way is to limit production time (churn it out as quickly as possible) and work with many many clients a week (units on a conveyor belt). You can certainly pay more too – in the U.S. you can easily pay 5 times what I charge.  

I actually heard this one at a drama school workshop I was running. I’m sure your friend also has a camera – why don’t they do your headshot too?

We will read through all of the pieces and make our final decisions, cuts and edits where needed. I’ll give you as much technique guidance as you need as you acclimatise to the Vocal Booth. Then we will begin to work our way through the pieces. Remember, all of the session is focussed on you and your performances. As we take regular breaks, I’ll be able to answer any questions you might have from 'finding work' and developing your career through to technical topics such as setting up and optimising your home-studio.

Yes, custom music and sound effects - as much as is needed and no more. Before we even hit record for the first time years ago we did extensive research into what the end-listener wants. They want to hear your voice and as an audio engineer/musician it is easy to get carried away creating something that sounds great but masks the voice.

Really, would you want me to? I will only ever work with two clients a week and although availability varies throughout the year I am usually booked 6-8 weeks in advance. It takes time to prepare for your reel. You may only get one done every 3 years or so.

Absolutely. We consult thoroughly and you will have full access to the Client Area. The essential preparation period gives us both time to make sure we are happy with what we will record on the day. If you are stuck in any area, I am on hand. The vast majority of clients who embark on this exciting process say they love it!

You do not need to be an actor to work in VO. In fact many are not. Sometimes, being an experienced stage actor can make it difficult to move into recorded work.

I’ve recorded around 25 languages over a 14 year period. We work together to decide on ‘best takes’.

You have no need to worry. I’ve worked with clients with every level of experience. I’ll coach you through the whole experience and you’ll leave knowing that you’ll be a pro on your first job.  Read up on how to be a recording engineer's dream: ► voiceover session advice