What is the difference between a voice-over and a voice actor?

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, there is a slight difference in approach. A voice-over artist often reads an informative or explanatory script, such as for a documentary or instruction manual. A voice actor really gets into character and acts with their voice, which you’ll hear more often in adverts, animated films or audiobooks. Fortunately, most professionals are skilled in both disciplines.

What’s the best way to submit my script?

Make sure the text is clear and easy to read, without overly complicated sentence structures. Spell out exactly how you want numbers, abbreviations or unfamiliar words to be pronounced. It also helps to add brief stage directions, so that the voice actor knows exactly what mood or emphasis you expect at specific moments.

Can I watch or listen in live during the recording?

Yes, many professional voice-over artists offer the option of listening in digitally during the recording session. Via a simple online connection, you can then provide direct guidance on pronunciation, pace and tone. This ensures a highly efficient process and a final result that immediately meets your expectations. [FAQ_BLOCK]

How do I make my voice sound soothing without sounding boring?

Bernadette teaches you the technique of grounded speaking. This focuses on breathing, resonance, and finding the right pauses to draw the listener in.

Voice-over in Dutch: what should you look for when choosing a voice?

Dutch voice-overs: what should you look for when choosing a voice?

Whether you’re creating a powerful corporate video, a radio advert or an online instructional video, the right voice determines how your message comes across. Choosing a professional Dutch voice-over is therefore a crucial step in your production. A good voice immediately grabs attention, builds trust and ensures the listener stays engaged. But with such a vast range on offer, how do you filter out that one voice that’s perfectly suited to your project? We’re happy to help you get started with some practical tips.

Determine the right tone and atmosphere

Before you start listening to audio clips, it’s important to know exactly what you want to say and to whom. Are you looking for a voice that sounds enthusiastic and energetic to launch a new product? Or would a warm, calm and trustworthy tone be more suitable for an instructional video or an internal company presentation? The voice is your brand’s calling card, so the tone must blend seamlessly with the visuals and your company’s identity.

Jot down a few keywords in advance that describe the desired tone. Consider, for example:

Warm and welcoming

Professional and trustworthy

Fresh and youthful

Convincing and enthusiastic

Bear in mind the difference between Flemish and Dutch

When we talk about a Dutch voice-over, we must, of course, make an important geographical and cultural distinction in Belgium. Are you looking for a voice that speaks fluently with a recognisable, soft Flemish accent, or do you need a voice actor who uses the typical Dutch pronunciation from the Netherlands?

The choice depends entirely on your target audience. For a local Belgian campaign, a familiar Flemish voice often comes across as much more convincing and personal. Does your company target the whole of the Benelux? In that case, you might consider recording two separate versions, or opting for a voice with a completely neutral, universal pronunciation. Nothing is more distracting to a listener than an accent that doesn’t feel natural for the region in which the message is being heard.

Choose experience and flexibility

Having a pleasant voice is one thing, but interpreting and conveying a script correctly is a skill in its own right. Professional voice-over artists know exactly how to play with stress, pauses and breathing. They can also adapt effortlessly to the feedback you provide.

When listening to demos, pay attention not only to the tone of voice, but also to its versatility. Can the voice actor switch quickly from a businesslike tone to a more cheerful, playful style? Experienced voice-over artists also often deliver a flawless recording more quickly, which saves you a great deal of time when editing your video.

Pay attention to the quality of the studio recording

A beautiful voice loses all its impact if the recording quality is poor. Fortunately, professional voice-over artists usually work from their own, professionally equipped sound studio. This ensures that your recording is completely free from distracting ambient sounds, echo or background noise.

When selecting a voice, always ask for a recent audio clip. This way, you can be sure that the audio sounds crystal clear and is ready to be added to your video or edit straight away. This prevents unpleasant surprises and extra work later on.