How to Run a Flawless Remote Directed Session (Part 2)

In Part 1 of this series, I helped you decide if you need a live directed session for your voice over project. Now that you've chosen the collaborative approach, let's dive into the "how."

You don't need to be a seasoned producer to direct a voice actor. The technology is simpler than you think, and the process is all about clear communication. This guide is your playbook for running a smooth, effective, and successful remote voice over recording session.

The Technology Explained (No IT Degree Required)

The first question most clients ask is, "How to listen in on a voice recording session?" A remote session typically has two audio components: one for communicating with the actor, and one for hearing their pristine, microphone-quality audio.

• For Communication (The "Talkback"): This is usually handled over a simple Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or phone call. This allows us to see and hear each other, making communication easy and natural.

• For Pristine Audio (The "Mic Feed"): While you can listen over Zoom, the audio is compressed and doesn't represent the final quality. To hear the full, rich audio from the actor's microphone in real-time, we use industry-standard tools.

What is Source Connect?

Think of it as a crystal-clear audio pipeline directly from my professional studio microphone to your speakers or headphones. It's the gold standard for remote voice over recording, streaming uncompressed, broadcast-quality audio with no delay. It allows your audio engineer to record my performance directly on their end, or simply lets you monitor the true sound of the recording.

For many projects, a simpler setup where you direct over Zoom while I record the high-quality audio on my end works perfectly. We can discuss the best technical setup for your specific needs.

Your Directed Session Playbook: A 3-Step Checklist

A little preparation goes a long way. Before the session begins, run through this simple checklist:

1. Finalize the Script: The script should be the 100% final, approved version. Changes made during a live session can lead to delays and additional costs. Be sure to include a pronunciation guide for any company names, jargon, or technical terms.

2. Designate a Director: Decide who on your team will be the primary person giving feedback to the voice actor(s). Having one point of contact for direction avoids confusing, contradictory notes and keeps the session focused.

3. Prepare Your buzzwords: You don't have to be a professional director to give great direction. Simply come prepared with a few adjectives to describe the performance you're looking for. Words like "warm," "authoritative," "energetic," "reassuring," or "witty" are incredibly helpful.

How to Direct a Voice Actor Remotely: 4 Keys to Success

You're in the session and the voice actor is ready in the booth. Now what? Here are four simple keys to providing clear, effective direction.

1. Be Specific and Actionable: Feedback is most effective when it's precise. Instead of saying "I don't like it," try "Could we pick up the pace on that line?" or "Let's try a version with a bit more smile."

2. Direct the Emotion, Not the Words: The best way to guide an actor is to tell them the motivation or feeling behind the line. For example, "You're explaining this to a trusted friend" will get a much more natural result than you trying to read the line yourself to show how it should sound.

3. Use the "Compliment Sandwich": This is a classic technique for a reason. Sandwich your critique between two positives. "The pacing on that first part was perfect. On the second line, let's try for a more authoritative tone. The energy you're bringing is great!"

4. Trust Your Talent: Remember, you hired a professional for their expertise. It's a collaboration! Be open to their suggestions—they might offer a read you hadn't even considered that ends up being perfect for the project.

A live directed voice over session is a powerful tool for achieving a perfect final product. With a little preparation and clear communication, it becomes a simple, efficient, and even enjoyable part of the creative process.

Ready to direct your next project? Contact me today and let's create something great together.

Thanks For Reading!

To learn more about me, hear some samples, or download my demos, just go to www.tomdheere.com.

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Tom Dheere is a voice actor with over 25 years of experience narrating just about every type of voiceover you can think of. He also helps other voice talents navigate the voiceover industry as the VO Strategist. When not voicing or talking about voicing, he produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.