VO Pro Tip: Preparing for a Live-Directed Session

Published 1 day ago • 1 min read

Preparing for a Live Directed Session

Hey Reader,

I have a live session coming up in a few days so this one is fresh on my mind. Landing a live-directed session is great, but scrambling right before the connection goes live is a fast way to spike your anxiety and throw off your read and performance.

When a client or director logs on, they want to hear a relaxed talent who is completely ready to perform, not someone dealing with technical glitches or dry mouth on take one.

Taking 15 minutes before call time to run through a quick pre-session checklist makes a huge difference:

Get the script formatted and loaded: Download the final script file and pull it up on your booth display before dialing in. Mark any tricky pronunciations or spots you have questions about, and make sure you aren't relying on a laggy web browser or small phone screen.
Test your connection early: If you’re using Source-Connect, Zoom, IPDTL, or some other connection method, launch the software 10 to 15 minutes early. Check that your audio interface inputs and outputs are properly routed so you aren't troubleshooting levels while the director is waiting.
Warm up your voice and hydrate: Don't let your first read of the day happen on call. Do a quick 5-minute vocal warm-up to clear any morning rasps, and sip room-temperature water to keep mouth noise to a minimum.
Mute local notifications: Silence your phone, close unnecessary desktop apps, and turn off anything that could chime, push a notification, or steal bandwidth mid-take.

Arriving at a session calm, organized, and prepped lets you focus entirely on taking direction and delivering a great read.

-Michael

Check out all of the past VO Pro Tips here! VO PRO TIP ARCHIVE

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Thanks so much!

Curious about my own personal VO Work?

www.MichaelLangsnerVO.com

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