What is the Optimal Posture for Voice Over Performance: Sitting or Standing?

By using their talent and skill, voice over artists can bring scripts to life through the power of their voice, captivating listeners. Physical position during recording sessions is often overlooked. Should you stand or sit while delivering your lines? To figure out which is better for voice over delivery, we'll examine the benefits and drawbacks of standing and sitting.

The Benefits of Standing

a. Improved breath control:

Standing allows for better diaphragmatic breathing, as your torso is in a more expanded and open position. This will cause improved vocal projection, breath control, and overall vocal performance.

b. Increased energy and engagement:

Standing naturally promotes a sense of energy and engagement. It can help you create a more dynamic performance. Especially during voice over jobs that require a lot of intensity and expression.

c. Enhanced physicality:

Standing allows for greater body movement, which can be beneficial when performing characters or actions that require physicality. This freedom of movement can help you fully embody the voice and bring more life to your performance.

The Advantages of Sitting

a. Sitting reduces physical strain:

Long recording sessions can be physically demanding. Sitting can be a more relaxed and comfortable way to position yourself, taking the strain away from your legs, back, and feet. This could help people with physical disabilities and those who easily get tired.

b. Sitting can help with precise microphone technique:

When sitting, it’s easier to maintain consistent microphone positioning and distance. A more controlled and consistent sound quality is achieved, creating a professional and polished voice over performance.

c. Focus on vocal technique:

Sitting can help you focus more on your vocal technique, as you’re not distracted by balancing your body or coordinating movement. It allows you to concentrate on refining your vocal delivery, nuances, and subtle inflections.

How to Find the Right Position for You

a. Role and script requirements:

The nature of the voice over role and script can influence your choice of position. Consider the character’s energy, physicality, and emotional state. If the script demands an animated performance, standing might be more suitable. If the role requires a calm and controlled delivery, sitting can help you achieve that level of focus.

b. Preference and experimentation:

Every voice actor is unique, and preference plays a significant role in finding the ideal position. Try rehearsing while both standing and sitting to see what is most comfortable. Discover which position allows you to deliver your best performance.

c. Session duration and physical limitations:

Longer recording sessions may warrant sitting to conserve energy and reduce the risk of physical strain. If you have physical constraints, you may be better off sitting.

Conclusion

It's not possible to find a single solution that's suitable for everybody with standing or sitting for voice over performances. Each position has its own advantages depending on the individual, the role requirements, and the person's comfort level. It might be beneficial for voice actors to stand and sit during recording sessions. Experiment and be aware of your body's response to finding the best position for confident, sincere vocal delivery.