Sydney has a busy screen and content community, from independent filmmakers and documentary producers to agencies making explainer videos for startups and corporates. Whatever the project, a clear voiceover brief is one of the simplest ways to save time and get a performance that fits. A vague brief leads to guesswork, extra takes and revisions. A good one gets you close on the first read.

1. Describe the project

Start with the basics: what the video is, who it is for and where it will be seen. A ninety-second product explainer for a website, a short film heading to festivals and a corporate documentary for shareholders all need different approaches. Mention the expected running time and whether the final piece will be in more than one version.

2. Explain the role of the voice

Is the voice a narrator, a character, a presenter speaking to camera, or the inner thoughts of someone on screen? For film work in particular, the voice may be part of the story rather than an outside guide. Make this clear, because it changes everything about the delivery.

3. Paint a picture of the voice you want

Useful descriptions go beyond "male" or "female". Try covering:

• Approximate age range
• Accent, for example general Australian or a particular regional or international accent
• Energy level, from calm and reflective to upbeat and punchy
• Personality words such as warm, wry, authoritative, playful or sincere

Reference clips are very helpful. A link to a video or ad with a delivery you like can say more than a paragraph of adjectives.

4. Supply the final script and picture

Send the script in a clean, readable format with any changes already made. If you have a rough cut or an animatic, include it with timecode so the voice artist can match the timing. For explainer videos with animation, decide whether the animation will be timed to the voice or the other way around.

5. Flag pronunciation

Product names, technical terms, people's names and places can all be pronounced in more than one way. List them with a phonetic guide or a recording. Getting them right at the start avoids costly fixes later.

6. Be clear about usage

Tell the talent or agency where the work will appear: online only, broadcast, cinema, festivals, internal use, and in which countries. Usage affects fees and must be agreed before recording.

7. Note your deadlines and approvals

Include the date you need the audio and who needs to approve it. If several people will sign off, plan for that in your timeline. Ask whether the session can be directed live so key stakeholders can listen in.

8. Specify delivery

Let the studio know the file format you need and whether you want the takes edited, raw or both. Your editor or sound mixer will usually have a preference.

Start your next project with us

We provide professional voice artists and recording for filmmakers, production companies and businesses across Sydney. Send us your brief, or ask us to help you write one, and request a free quote.