VoiceOvers

Voiceover is a production technique in which a voice that is not part of the visible action is recorded to provide narration, commentary, or character dialogue over a scene. It is used across film, television, radio, video games, documentaries, commercials, e-learning, and online video.

The production typically begins with script and casting, where an appropriate voice is selected for tone and cadence. A director or voice director guides performances. Recording occurs in a sound-treated studio using a microphone, audio interface, and digital workstation. Post-production includes editing, noise reduction, equalization, compression, and integration with the visual track.

Common voiceover styles include narration (expository), character voices for animation or games, promotional and trailer voices, and documentary or instructional narration. Localization involves dubbing and voice replacement in different languages. ADR is a related process to re-record dialogue after filming. Voiceover is also used for accessibility, such as audio descriptions for visually impaired audiences.

The industry spans entertainment, advertising, education, and corporate communications. Rights and licensing cover performance, usage, and geographic scope. Advances in synthetic speech and AI-assisted voice generation are influencing the field, raising ethical and legal considerations. Professionals may work as freelance talent, in studios, or as part of production teams.