File Naming

Hey Reader,

We talk a lot about performance and audio quality, but sometimes the simplest business tasks make the biggest difference. A consistent, professional file naming system is one of those tiny details that tells a casting director or client, "This person has their act together."

You want your file name to be a clean, clear calling card.

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1. The Audition Naming Rule

The goal of an audition file name is purely identification. The client needs to know immediately who the file belongs to and what it's for, without opening it.

I recommend the following:

First Name Last Name_Project Name.mp3

For example: Michael Langsner_SquareSpace Web Spot.mp3

This format is universally clean and easy to sort. I recommend using the mp3 format for auditions unless specified otherwise, as it's small, fast to download, and perfectly fine for evaluation.

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2. The Project Naming System

Once you book the job, your naming convention needs to be more detailed, as these files will be going directly into the client’s timeline for mixing. Here, clarity about the content is key.

I recommend something like

VO_ClientName_ProjectName_Version Number.wav

For example:

VO_Honda_Fall 2025 TV Spot_V2.wav

The .wav format is usually required for final files because it preserves the highest audio quality. The version number helps keep track of revisions.

If the file is an entire long VO session as opposed to a pre-edited take of the final script, I may start the filename with something like "VO Session" as opposed to "VO" and may incorporate the date somewhere as well.

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3. The Golden Rule: Always Follow Instructions

Here’s the most critical part: If the client or casting director provides specific naming guidelines, your professional job is to follow them exactly, even if they conflict with your usual system.

If they ask for Project_Date_TalentInitials.wav, then that is precisely what you deliver.

Why? Because their system is often automated to match a huge database or their internal tracking software. Deviating from their instructions can literally prevent your file from being downloaded or properly processed, or just bother them (which you don't want to do either)

By adopting a clear system and always adhering to a client's specific requests, you save them time, look incredibly professional, and greatly increase the odds of a smooth, successful transaction.

-Michael

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Thanks so much!

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