How to Record a Voice-Over for a TV Newscast

A voice-over, or VO, is one of the four main types of news stories. There are packages, readers, VOs and VO/SOTs. A VO is when you see video playing while the anchor or reporter reads over it. At no time do you actually see the anchor or reporter; they simply describe the video that you're watching. Here is how to record a voice-over for a TV newscast.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Use VOs when you have video that you want to show the viewer. If you have an interview to go along with it, you'd create a VO/SOT.

2. Describe the video as you write the VO. If it's a benefit for the local SPCA, for instance, write about the fact that it was packed, and people brought their pets and posed for pet pictures to take home.

3. Edit the VO to match the script. When the anchor mentions the pet pictures, a shot of them posing should come up.

4. Run VOs to show breaking-news situations. Often, a photographer will get to a crime scene and shoot it quickly. That video will be streamed or driven back to the news station. It's relatively easy to edit it quickly and get it on air for the viewers.

5. Keep VO scripts to 30 seconds, but make sure at least 40 seconds is edited. This covers you and prevents the video from going to black if the script runs a little longer than expected.

6. Have the reporter talk over a VO at a live shot if there isn't enough time to gather a package. This still gives you the live presence and allows the reporter to describe the scene.

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