I have found proper microphone technique essential to recording high-quality audio and to a successful voice over career. Here are some useful tips and tricks I use when recording my voice over sessions.
Microphone placement
Most novices assume they should setup their microphone directly in front of their mouth with the front of the microphone’s diaphragm facing directly at his/her mouth. However, this assumption is incorrect. Instead, an ideal setup for your microphone is the following:
- Slightly off to one side
- Slightly above your nose
- Angled down ever so slightly toward the floor
- Front of the diaphragm at a 30 – 45 degree angle to your mouth
Mouth proximity
The amplitude of your voice, as picked up by the microphone, will vary depending on how close your mouth is to the microphone. Even when speaking at the same volume, the closer your are, the louder it will sounds while the farther away, the softer it sounds. Do your best to keep you mouth 6″ to 8″ from the microphone. Hold up your hand using the hang loose sign to get a good distance.
Oral habits
Pops, clicks, hisses, breaths, and slaps—there is nothing a sound engineer despises more. Minimizing mouth noises will shorten audio editing times and greatly improve your reputation with production staff.
- Begin every recording session with vocal warm ups
- Keep hydrated, but not overly so
- Avoid closing your mouth between sentences
Head movement
It is okay to gesture with your hands while speaking, but try to hold your head a still as possible. Doing so keeps your mouth the same angle and distance from the microphone, resulting in more consistent amplitude.
Pop filter
There are many opinions on whether to use a pop filter. Based on my collective experience, research, and guidance from trusted industry experts, the answer is this–only use a pop filter if you absolutely must.