In the voiceover world, a finished minute means the final edited audio of a recording. It helps set prices and project length. Voice actors set their own rates, considering words, finished minutes, and how the audio will be used.

Voiceover prices change with the client type, audio use, and script complexity. Project size, client fame, repeat chances, production needs, and time frame affect prices too.

Narration rates are figured out by dividing the total words by 160. This is the average for a minute of audio in voiceovers.

Voice actors should see their work as a business. They should think about costs like equipment, skill growth, and marketing. Knowing what to charge helps them not charge too little or too much.

Quality of voice, studio quality, quick delivery, and adding value to clients matter more to clients than price. Teaching clients about voiceovers and building strong relationships helps voice actors.

Online sites like Voices.com have made voiceover work cheaper and reachable worldwide. Actors can use these sites, local agents, and self-promotion to make $50k - $100k a year.

In summary, the idea of a finished minute is key in setting voiceover rates and recording lengths. Many factors affect it. Voice actors must plan well to get fair pay for their work.

How to Determine Finished Minutes Based on Word Count

To figure out how long a voiceover will take, count the words in the script. On average, a voice actor can read about 150 words every minute. Just divide the script's total words by 150 to estimate the finished minutes.

For scripts with 300 words or less, the recording time is usually 0-2 minutes. These voice-overs are often priced between $100 and $250.

The average reading speed of 150 words per minute is just a guide. Voice actors might need to change their speed for different projects. Some scripts need a slow pace, while others want a quick delivery.

Knowing how long a voiceover will take is key for setting prices and managing time. By linking word count to finished minutes, voice actors can give clients clear quotes. They can also plan their recording and editing time well.

Factors to Consider when Setting Voice Actor Rates

Setting the right rates as a voice actor is key for your success and making clients happy. Think about these factors when figuring out your rates:

1. Experience Level

How long you've been a voice actor affects your rates. Beginners with 0-2 years might ask for $75+ per 100 words. Those with 2-5 years of experience could start at $100+. And those with more than 5 years might charge $200+ for the same amount of words.

2. Project Type and Length

The project's type and how long it is can change your rates. For example, audiobook narrators with less experience might charge $75 - $125 per hour. But those with more experience could ask for $250 - $400 per hour.

3. Usage Period

How long the voiceover will be used can affect your rates. For a 3-month local broadcast, rates start at $150+. But for a buyout, they can go over $1000+.

4. Union vs. Non-Union

Being in a union can change your rates too. Union voice actors have set rates. Non-union ones can set their own, often at lower prices. This makes non-union actors a good choice for some projects.

5. Additional Factors

Other things to think about include having a home studio and offering finished audio. A professional studio lets you charge more. You can also choose to charge by the word, line, hour, or finished hour, based on the project and what you prefer.

Keep these factors in mind to set rates that match your experience, the project, and what clients expect. It's important to find a good balance between fair pricing and showing your worth as a voice actor.

Broadcast vs. Non-Broadcast Narration: Understanding the Difference

There are two main types of voiceover work: broadcast and non-broadcast narration. Knowing the difference helps voice actors set their rates and find the right kind of work for their skills.

Broadcast narration goes out to a big audience through radio and TV. It's made for many people in certain areas and can be ads or messages for the public. With more videos being made, the need for broadcast narration is growing. Cisco says video will make up 82 percent of all internet traffic by 2021.

Non-broadcast narration is for certain groups of people who like the same things. You can find it online or in special places. It's made for those who want something just for them. Web videos were 73 percent of all internet traffic in 2016.

Whether it's for a big audience or a small group, many things affect how much voiceover work costs. Actors start charging $275 for up to five minutes of work. The price can go up based on the project and the actor's experience.

Knowing the difference between broadcast and non-broadcast narration helps voice actors work with different clients and audiences. They can capture a wide audience or speak directly to a specific group. The need for voiceover talent keeps growing as we all use more audio and video to communicate.

FAQ

What is a finished minute in the voiceover industry?

A finished minute is the final edited audio from a recording. It helps figure out the cost and length of a project.

How can I determine the finished minutes based on the word count of my script?

To find the finished minutes, just divide the script's words by 150. This is because voice actors usually read about 150 words a minute.

What factors should I consider when setting my voice actor rates?

When setting your rates, think about if you're in a union or not, if you record at home, the project's length, the type of voiceover, and how long people will hear it. These things help you set fair and competitive prices.

What is the difference between broadcast and non-broadcast narration?

Broadcast narration goes out to a big audience through TV and radio. Non-broadcast narration is for specific groups based on what they like. Knowing this helps you set your rates and choose the work you do.