How to Get Started in Audio Books
AUDIO BOOK NARRATION IS A SPECIALIZED SKILL
Different from commercial voice-over or industrial narration, the actor must voice all the characters in a work of fiction, giving each a distinctive voice and attitude. He must keep each character separate and consistent. Acting experience in theatre or movies is helpful. In fact, many big name actors enjoy recording books on tape because they are so challenging and interesting to do. Don?t worry if you don?t do characters. There are plenty of other genres such as business books to narrate.
IT REQUIRES STAMINA
Depending on whether the work is complete or abridged, finished running time can range from 2 to 6 hours or more. It takes an average of 2-3 hours to record one hour of finished narration. The typical book takes about 8 or 9 hours to record. Most producers like to do this over a day and a half. It takes a lot to maintain your voice and your energy level in a marathon session like this!
BUDGETS ARE GENERALLY TIGHT
Audio books pay by the project, not by the hour. An experienced narrator can make several thousand dollars per book. Skilled beginners make several hundred dollars per book. Audio book producers say they are very receptive to skilled beginners who are willing to gain experience in low-budget projects.
THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF AUDIO BOOKS
Fiction, non-fiction, instructional, children’s, dramatic, how-to, business. Some actors specialize in a particular genre. Not every voice is right for all types of books.
YOU NEED A SPECIAL DEMO
Your regular commercial or industrial tape will not do. First, check out a number of audio books on the market. Pay attention to style and genre. There are many different theories about how long a good audio book demo should be. Some people prefer a longer demo with 4 five minute segments and others suggest that you choose 4 – :30 second excerpts of 4 different types of books that are best for your voice, representative of current audio book styles and trends, and demonstrate your range and interpretive abilities. Make sure your demo is recorded in a professional studio.
TO MAKE INDUSTRY CONTACTS CONSIDER JOINING THE AUDIO PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION OR ATTENDING THEIR CONFERENCE
Audio Publishers Association (APA) is a not-for-profit trade organization dedicated to creating a public awareness of the audio publishing industry as well as providing industry professionals with educational opportunities to develop their businesses. To learn more about APA, visit www.audiopub.org
Meet the “godmother” of audio book narrators and publisher of Audio File Magazine, the industry bible.
Don’t miss the next Silver Inner Guest Expert Interview “How to become a working audio book narrator” with Robin Whitten, founder and editor of AudioFile Magazine on Monday, November 2nd.
Not a member? Want to join the Silver Inner Circle and get 2 free months? Click here to become a trial member.
Have you been a member before and dropped out of the program, but want to rejoin again? Click here to start your active membership again for $59.95 per month.
