Surprise!

When I first decided to try audiobook narration, I thought it would be as simple as sitting down, opening a book and reading out loud with a nice voice. Spoiler alert: it is so much more than that - but in a good way...

Reading out loud is VERY different from reading in your head!

1. I had always believed I was a great reader - fast, expressive, immersed in the book. Then I tried reading into a microphone.

   Suddenly, my tongue was too big and I couldn't pronounce words I have probably said a million times! Sentences seem long when you have to concentrate on your breathing....its something we do naturally but apparently not very well when you hear every single breath! Pacing also became a thing you now have to think about. What feels so effortless and sounds so good in your head has now become a deliberate skill - the good part though.....It's getting easier and smoother with every try.

2. My voice doesn't sound like me...erm who is this person?

   The first time I listened to myself, I was not prepared for what I heard! I sounded higher than I expected, more 'formal' than I meant to and slightly tense - Is this how other people hear me? Slowly I am noticing what I do like about my voice though - warmth, clarity and the tones that flow naturally.

3. Breath noise...believe me it's a real thing.

   I really had no idea how loud you are when you're breathing into a microphone (for those of us of a certain age....thinks 80's landline dirty phone call!) But learning to control your breath, something that is so natural but feels like more work than it should! Pause intentionally and staying relaxed makes a big difference...Oh and stay hydrated.

4. Even a short recording takes longer than you would expect.

   For instance a 3 minute sample can take multiple takes and edits, the prep time and lots of patience ( by patience I mean coffee) Its not about rushing it's about making something you are proud of.

5. Everyday words are hard work.

   Why are the words that I have been using for decades (without a single thought) so difficult to pronounce when you are recording them. Yes I have just done 6 takes of saying the word trajectory!

6. I'm not about to retire yet.

   If you think you're going to be rich, think again. chances are you aren't going to be a millionaire this time next year...but fingers crossed.

Anyway I'm excited to be on this journey and I hope that I can give one person just a bit of encouragement. Being a beginner is a fun and exciting albeit emotional place to be, and I have to remember when it all seems to be getting on top of me a take away coffee and this view is just 5 mins away!