Voice Over

Voiceover recording is the process – partially linguistic and partially mechanical – whereby a video presentation created in one language is replicated in a different language. The process involves a number of professionals including a transcriptionist, translator and an editor, voice talent, and project manager. The most common use of voiceover recording is dubbing the sound track of a foreign language motion picture so the film can be shown in another country.

Additional uses for voiceover recordings

• Training films
• Marketing and sales presentations
• Demonstrations of how to assemble or use complex equipment 
• Demonstrations of industrial processes
• Performances designed for social media such as YouTube 

What are the cost factors involved in the creation of a voiceover recording?

• Transcription is billed on an hourly basis
• The translation process (including editing and proofreading) is billed on a “per word” basis
• Voice talent is billed on an hourly basis for the time spent in the recording studio
• Studio resources are billed on an hourly basis
• The studio charge includes the cost of the technician(s) engaged in the task
• Actual recording time may be charged at a rate different than the pre- and post-production phases of the work
• Project management may be billed as a flat rate, or it may be charged separately at an hourly rate 
• Multiple copies and delivery by courier, if requested, are billed on a “cost plus” basis.