I wish there was a test like this for every industry, so teens and 20s can test and find out what they really want to do to earn money with there time.
@britbyars4 жыл бұрын
That’s actually a really good idea!
@chickenmuffin4 жыл бұрын
Agreed you'd think that school would do this.
@arcticgypsy4 жыл бұрын
Many companies will allow people to shadow a worker for a number of hours to get a feel of what the job is like.
I don't know if you'll see this comment, as this video is seven years old at this point, but recently my sister asked me to record for her an audio version of the story she's writing. Having recorded the first chapter, my sister pointed out that I sounded really good, like a professional. I'm 18, and I've been having a lot of trouble figuring out what career I want to pursue. I can't do your test now, as the last few months of high school are giving me a hard time, but this summer I'm going to try this. Thank you, for such an excellent way to test whether this is actually something I could do, it's incredible.
@jpgreece9985 Жыл бұрын
Yo how did the test go???
@RBradyFrost11 ай бұрын
@@jpgreece9985 I'm here 5 months later, wondering the same thing. I really hope @mothstaples6706 pursued the dream and kept going.
@shadow_fox7737 ай бұрын
Hi, I don’t know if you’ll reply to this, but I wanted to ask you anyways. I’m late in my high school career, like you were when you wrote this comment, and I’ve felt a lot of anxiety about what I want to do with my life. Audiobook narration is something that I’ve thought about pursuing for months, and now that I’m looking at colleges, I feel pressure to choose one that has a major that supports my interests in careers. Do you have any advice for me? Thank you so much in advance!
@TheINFJChannel3 жыл бұрын
I know this is 7 years old but I see something in your eyes I wanted to point out- kindness. It radiates. The video content was great too. ❤
@beverlyg13518 жыл бұрын
Sean, by accident I fell into reading in a group I'm in. It was a circle of people at church that I've known for sometime and we meet every Monday. We decided to go around the table and each person would read about a page or two of this exciting book we decided to read for ten weeks. The person would read until they were tired of reading. I was the fourth person to read. Well, once I started reading I LOVED it, and so did everyone else. They loved my reading. They all wanted me to keep reading if I was interested in doing so, which I was. I read for two hours straight with a 10-minute break. I could have gone on for hours. Now every week I'm doing the reading the entire time. I'm getting better at it each week, and I started out being good at it. While I'm reading I can scan a few lines down ahead of my voice so that I can see the upcoming punctuation which lets me know where to put emphasis and interest. As a result of this, I'm thinking I might possibly be able to do this as a profession. The people in my group have suggested that as well. I don't know anything about this profession, but I'd certainly love to check into it. I live in the Spokane, Washington area. Any advice you can give me, I would welcome. Thank you.
@SeanAllenPratt7 жыл бұрын
B - 1) If you pass, then start narrating every DAY. Even if you don't have recording equipment yet! Pick a book you like and just jump in; you're learning how to play piano now and need all the practice you can get. 2) Visit www.acx.com/ this is where new narrators go to find work. 3) Search KZfaq for free videos on narration; there are tons! Also, look for any Facebook groups devoted to narration and join them. 4) Look to see if there are any VO workshops in your area, or via webinar, to attend. A great place for information and technique is voiceoverxtra.com/ 5) Please realize that you're now wanting to get into Show Business; the competition is fierce, success and measured progress is not guaranteed, and you'll be investing time and money for quite a while before you see any real returns. It's very difficult but not impossible! 6) Get an account with www.audible.com and buy a subscription to www.audiofilemagazine.com You need to start listening to audiobooks ALL THE TIME! Good Luck! - Sean
@Agent756415847 жыл бұрын
Best advice I've ever read on VO. Thanks!
@Ami_E_Bowen8 жыл бұрын
I love listening to audiobooks and it makes me smile whenever I hear a narrator mispronounce a word or, once I heard one swallow between a paragraph, because it reminds me that a real human is reading these and not a text-to-speech program and it kind of makes the whole experience more fun. I find myself as interested in the narrator as in the story itself; a bit like a third part of the book so to speak. Even though I love audiobooks and I have always enjoyed reading out loud to myself I've known for years that that's not something I could ever do professionally. I would totally fail your test on so many levels; I get restless too easily in one position/I tend to pace a lot would would add noise and breathing issues, and the walls of my house are thin so you can easily hear the neighbors, I live in an old house that creaks and cracks and pops all the time out of the blue, if I locked myself in a room my dogs would be scratching and whining at the door in no time, and last, but not least, I have two pet squirrels who are always running around jumping on stuff and making noise; they make a vast variety of sounds from chittering to squeaky whines. But, I really hope that your test helps find other people who do end up perusing the occupation as there should be more audiobook to choose from in my opinion. One last thing; I would think reading from a tablet computer would work a lot better than from a printed book, well, if you didn't have to worry about glitches or power outages or whatever. Lol. Anyway, keep up the good work, Mr. Book Reader!
@SeanAllenPratt7 жыл бұрын
Thank you for leaving a comment! Yes, I narrated from an iPad for that very reason.
@scottdraper12446 жыл бұрын
Geez, paragraphs, please!
@analogkid49573 жыл бұрын
You heard a narrator mispronounce a word and swallow? Wouldn’t that be the producers fault or sound editor so to speak? That is an unprofessional mistake that should have been corrected before the official release of the said Audiobook?
@brisvegan897 жыл бұрын
30 seconds in and I like you already
@erickamitchell-okatah9495 жыл бұрын
I'm starting my test tommorrow....in my walk-in closet 2hrs every day for the next 2wks!!!! I know without a shadow of a doubt I was born to a narrator !!! I LOVE IT!!
@TirsaTalks4 жыл бұрын
how did it go Ericka? :)
@Ayram96 жыл бұрын
Ok! I did it! :) I've thought about narrating books for many many years (just being one who's always loved reading aloud and is good at it (fluent/fluid), good at recognizing good writing and sentence structure etc. when she sees it, loves the acting aspect, and has fun with the challenge of finding the correct balance between overdoing and underdoing something, if that makes sense. By "something" I mean all the things that matter e.g. acting; loudness; articulation/enunciation; speed of narration; breathing; texture/scratchy voice, etc. Anyway, I watched this video of yours when I first started to really consider it, and you were so convincing that I'd lose interest that I actually expected to and thought it would be too hard. But I kept being interested so I tried your challenge, and it worked (I stuck with it)! So, now, I have a nonfiction sample up and am just now finishing my first book (nonfiction). The author likes my voice and wants me to do her next book too! My goal is to do fiction next so I need to get a fiction sample or two up! For all the videos I watched, yours stuck with me the most, and your honesty about it really seemed to make a difference for me. I don't know if this will really work out or if it'll become too much, but I do love the process. While I think it will take me a while to learn how to do all the proper editing (for now I'm using someone else to do my editing), I do happen to have all the equipment (from music hobby) and hope to not need my sound technician guy forever. Thanks again!
@sylvioufba11 ай бұрын
A master at his craft. He's my favorite audiobook narrator by far
@shines92902 ай бұрын
Such great advice. With anything really. Great parenting advice as well for kids who want to try everything. Spot on!
@waynefarrellvoiceovers3 жыл бұрын
Eight years later and I still point new narrators to this video.
@OCUBOX5 жыл бұрын
That's awesome Sean, I without learning this from anyone, went through actually recording and editing different books, reading, timing, figuring out how to make sure the read is as smooth as possible, and still obsessed, so I'm guessing this is 100% a passion. Heck, I used to read out loud whenever I read books (still do, it helps me understand better), so it's a no brainier for me. Love audio-books, and it marries with my technical prowess and I believe great voice. So, literally just finished setting up my voice.com and voice123 accounts. Was reading an article and saw that you've done over 900 AUDIOBOOKS! Like Holy S. Incredible. Reminds my of Alexander Scourby, what a feat!
@Lkutzervoices6 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for this, Sean. I work full time in management, but have recently begun narrating, and am now on my second audio-book. I eventually intend on doing this full time. I do love it, and have no problem being alone in a small space reading aloud. I even love the editing part. All I desire is to become so much better at it. I am very grateful to people, such as yourself, who are willing to share.
@angelasandersadams4 жыл бұрын
Thank you! This really made me pause and think. It’s great advice, honest and sincere. I’ve been wanting to narrate audiobooks for a long time and you gave me a “realistic” test to see if I have what it takes to do this. Thank you!!
@brockdeskins55466 жыл бұрын
I'm author with 18 titles to my name. I recently started to hire narrators for my books. This got me thinking that perhaps I should learned to narrate my own books, as a start, and maybe I can get good enough to produce them on my own and then start taking on other people's books. I think I can create a fairly wide range of voices. Like you suggested, I started reading out loud at night and discovered that reading out loud is exhausting! Physically tiring. I stopped doing it, but I'll start again. It's good practice. I have some hardware coming today in hopes of doing some recordings to get an accurate gauge as to the quality of my voice and if I'm pleasant enough to listen to.
@lexboogy014 жыл бұрын
what kind of hardware?
@brockdeskins55464 жыл бұрын
@@lexboogy01 I got a scarlet solo kit. Comes with an AT 2020 mic and stand. Been working out pretty well.
@trentmagedon79779 жыл бұрын
I've been considering doing this for years (ever since I read Rose Madder). I read avidly, drive back and forth between FL & NJ many times a year and listen to audiobooks 90% of the trip, and am also a writer. I've done a minor variation of your test, reading several pages of my own material for about 20 minutes, and every time I tripped over a word, or lost my place on the screen, or had to sneeze or whatever, I started over. Happy to say I got a little further each time, until I finally finished a chapter. But nowhere near two hours a day for two weeks. Thus I am definitely going to take this challenge and see what comes of it. I've been told I have a good voice (I'm sure they all say that) and I have done 60-second radio spots (three, a few years ago) as local advertising for the company I work for. It only stopped because the company pulled the radio ads out of the advertising budget... So anyway, I'm giving this a shot, Sean, you'll be hearing from me. Thanks!
@ninalily32178 жыл бұрын
I've always loved reading out loud, and I've been wanting to narrate audiobooks since the day I discovered them in the library. Will definitely do this test, looking forward to see how it goes!
@deskspud35345 жыл бұрын
Sean, your work on Infinite Jest was outstanding, really astonishing work on a very difficult masterwork. Many heartfelt thanks
@standupp2885 Жыл бұрын
A great narrator can make or break an audiobook. I'm a trucker so I've listened to about a thousand of them during my 21 years behind the wheel. There have been some pretty good ones but none that were good enough that I wanted to go find other books that they narrated, until now. I've been listening to a series called Expeditionary Force, narrated by R.C. Bray. Bray is absolutely hitting it out of the park, best narration I have ever heard. I will definitely be looking for other books done by him when I finish this series, which BTW is hilarious. If you love Sci-Fi and you have a good sense of humor, this series is for you.
@terrarosa81818 жыл бұрын
Sean thanks for posting! I've been seriously considering Audiobook narrating for a while. Of course doing my homework on it first. There's all types of advice out there from getting classes and what you need to buy right off before you do anything. Truthfully your advice is the most practical and useful advice given. Thank you. I've already been trying out reading due to worry over the strain it will have on voice box and throat muscles. But really cracking down and getting on a stricter schedule is something I'm immediately implementing. As well as taking notes and really playing the part. You'll hear from me if I pass my own rigorous testing of my self control. If I still enjoy it, I'll be back for advice with a game plan in the works.
@DuffWatkins8 жыл бұрын
An well-constructed, well presented, and very useful insight into narrating audio-books. A valuable contribution, Sean. Many thanks.
@enigmatic4748 жыл бұрын
Great video. I was considering a career change, and as an avid reader and lover of audiobooks, had convinced myself audio narration might be right for me... turns out it's not! Tried your test for 3 days and started to lose my mind a little! Not only did I find it terribly lonely, I couldn't even enjoy the book as the act of reading aloud meant I wasn't actually able to process much of what I was reading.
@steve-si3oz Жыл бұрын
I've listened to lots and lots of audio books. I'm currently listening to "Fall and Rise". Sean is the best narrator I've ever listened to. I don't know how you do it Sean but you captured every nuance and emotion. The way you delivered that line in the chapter about flight 93, "they were done taking orders from anyone" made it one I'll always remember. I've tried to describe it to others, but I can't come close to your narration. Excellent job!! Thank you!
@jeffreydhill5 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the realistic advice, Sean. I'm going to be applying this exercise daily (and take it seriously - in fact I'm adding the element of actually recording) to see if I'm as serious as I think I am.
@robertplautz97225 жыл бұрын
Dear Sean. if it wasn't for your fantastic reading, i would never have fallen in love with Infinite Jest. i am INFINITELY grateful for your insightful interpretation, making this masterpiece coming to LIFE! all my heartfelt gratitude. Robert
@SeanAllenPratt5 жыл бұрын
Robert Plautz I’m so happy you enjoyed my performance! It was both the most challenging and the most rewarding book I’ve ever narrated.
@Rinyotsu5 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the suggestion, I just recorded my first short story. It was less than a page and I really enjoyed it. Going in, I think I'll do very well. I'm anticipating my only problem being to keep properly hydrated.
@SeanAllenPratt5 жыл бұрын
I drink this tea every day, mixed with peppermint, lemon ginger, or raspberry lemon. www.amazon.com/Traditional-Medicinals-Throat-Seasonal-Organic/dp/B07D7HN9QT/ref=asc_df_B07D7HN9QT/?tag=&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312094795400&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14111436848196895112&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9026286&hvtargid=pla-570097015368&ref=&adgrpid=67655949808&th=1
@kotaishichan8 жыл бұрын
This was very helpful. could you make a video talking about the equipment needed to be an audiobook reader?
@2020nallano2 жыл бұрын
Hello Sean, Thank you for putting this video out to those that are curious and wanting to know more about this industry. For the last thirty years on average, I would get a minimum of two customers daily telling me that I have a great voice why not get into radio broadcast. Well at the time I loved my job and did not consider doing something on the side even to test this theory or idea of using my voice for income. I do love reading also so this might be something I would love to do especially now since I am not currently working. I will certainly touch base with you later as I go through the two weeks period you have suggested in reading books out loud.
@deeperstillhealing8 жыл бұрын
Currently reading/listening to "The Body Keeps the Score" and you are wonderful! You have a very clear voice and a natural expression that is not too dramatic, but evocative enough to want to keep listening. I have often needed to read books and papers out loud and it would be great if I could just record myself as long as I'm doing it anyway! I know that's not the same thing, though, but I thought I'd check out your advice. Thanks for this video!!
@charlie5thumbs3517 жыл бұрын
Hey, I recognize this guy's voice! He's really good.
@salaciousBastard8 жыл бұрын
Wow. I've been wanting to be a narrator ever since I heard my first audiobook, Roger Zelazny's The Chronicles of Amber. For weeks I would listen to it driving to and from work. It got me crazy about audiobooks. Instead of listening to the radio now I'm always plugged into my Kindle Fire. I'm going to try this and see what happens. Great advice. Thanks for sharing.
@jessicaharmon78384 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this insight, I will have to try this out! I have been told my voice is "easy" to listen to so I have been contemplating narrating for books. I have bought several audiobooks just because of your voice being so soothing. ;-)
@SeanAllenPratt4 жыл бұрын
jessica Harmon Good Luck!
@lindaplumley40603 жыл бұрын
I’m a new subscriber here in February 2021. I am going to take the test to see if I want to do this as much as I think I do. Thank you for the very informative video.
@b3ckyb3328 күн бұрын
You are the absolute BEST! Thank god you’ve done this.
@DanielleBaylor3 жыл бұрын
Came across this video in a forum. I'm actually interested in e-learning, commercials, and possibly cartoons when I gain more skill and experience. I don't read books for 2 hours a night, but do still read my son a bedtime story every night lol. Anyway, I don't suppose any of this is very important. I've wanted to do voice over since I was a kid, so I'm definitely willing to put in the work to make it happen. I record samples for hours every night after he goes to sleep and spend hours during the day editing. I don't love it, but I do love that I'm finally following another one of my dreams. Not everyone gets to have this experience in life. Just wish I'd had the knowledge and opportunity to start sooner!
@taylorharbin39484 жыл бұрын
Ingenious and simple! When I was working through graduate school for my historic preservation degree, I don't recall getting a lot of serious heart-to-hearts about what it would actually be like working in the field. Fortunately I'm blessed with a rewarding job that rarely bores me. People have often commented on my voice and ask if I ever wanted to get into radio/narration. Glad I found this video! Lots to ponder before making serious moves.
@JeniMiller1113 ай бұрын
It was the same for me at the networking events. People were asking me so many questions, trying to get themselves ahead - but it got to the point where I wasn't using the opportunities that were available for me.
@989silverm4 жыл бұрын
This is cool i will give it a shot. I wouldn't know the first thing about where to go from there though. Honestly never thought about doing this until listening to plenty of R.C Bray's narration plus stumbling across your video on KZfaq. We shall see where this journey may lead.
@Makreads10 жыл бұрын
Just realised how brilliant audio books are as I'm in a reading slump, but don't want to totally stop reading. I found an audio book online and can honestly say it's helped a lot. So if you're struggling to read, then read along with an audio book, it works wonders.
@SeanAllenPratt10 жыл бұрын
You're not the first person I know who's done that. If it works, then go for it.
@Makreads10 жыл бұрын
It's got me back into reading, so will definitely be using more audio-books in the future.
@teresaellis70625 жыл бұрын
@@Makreads Same. I got to a point in my life that I don't have time to sit down and read, so I listen to audiobooks while I am busy with boring adult duties like folding laundry, making meals and driving my car, where ever. Without audiobooks I would go stir crazy.
@Paul23775 жыл бұрын
I love listening to audiobooks, but I know I couldn't do it. I have much respect for narrators who can do (and remember) all the different voices.
@jongregory74642 жыл бұрын
I've been doing this test for the past 3 days, but 4 hours instead of 1-2, doing this has actually helped me read with less mistakes and made me realize I really enjoy it
@saraiami60964 жыл бұрын
Love the realness. Anyone serious about a craft will invest their time wisely. Thanks for the tips!
@climbers13766 жыл бұрын
Thank you!! Posting this video is truly volunteering a community service. Your "test" is wisdom that I will be keeping with me the rest of my life.
@SeanAllenPratt6 жыл бұрын
Glad it was so helpful!
@globalactor7 жыл бұрын
Sean this is great! I've been a narrator for a couple years now and have been in similar situations being asked how to become one. I absolutely love your "test". Smart man! Hope to see you at future narrator and APAC events.
@DemonCreep7 жыл бұрын
I'm definitely going to have to try this. I've been playing some games that are similar to audiobooks on my channel, and have been slowly improving quality. I think if I'm actually working for someone I'd focus more on slowing down and editing out messed up takes, but I've been slowly investing in my voice space and my work. Definitely enjoy it.
@theasignalman71238 жыл бұрын
Enjoyed your perspective... Thank you, I have been reading out loud in the Sauna, in the morning a perfect small space!
@DebbieinNH3 жыл бұрын
I got through 100 pages of a young adult novel, and about 300 pages of a 639 page book called Contextualized Language Intervention. I did it as a favor to some students and colleagues and also to help me study the latter material myself. This is a good challenge and an eye opener! I enjoyed it, but I'll stick with my current profession. A huge thank you to all audiobook narrators, but especially those who record books kids with reading difficulties need for school, both literature and textbooks.
@forresthancock19392 жыл бұрын
Thanks Sean. I've just ordered a digital voice recorder to see if I like my own performance. If I find myself convincing, I"m going for it part time to see where it goes.
@elroyblackbean9 жыл бұрын
Completely aside from wanting to break into this industry, you are one of my FAVORITE narrators on Audible! Terrific work!
@SeanAllenPratt9 жыл бұрын
aw shucks. :-)
@elroyblackbean9 жыл бұрын
+Sean Pratt You hooked me with the read of Norm Brodsky's Street Smarts. I can still hear you saying, "Ask Norm". Well done!
@Camrographer Жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! What you're saying sounds obvious but it's funny that it wasn't one of the first things I should have done to determine if narrating books is a good fit for me. It does sound like it suits personalities which are naturally solitary.
@artisanshrew9 жыл бұрын
I started regularly performing as a vocalist (paid gigs) at age 15. I never had the desire to be a Superstar but every ounce of my being wanted to break into the industry as a Radio Broadcaster!!! Unfortunately, the industry was already dying by the time I graduated High School... :( Although I DID manage to finagle my way into Radio - going from intern/morning show sidekick, audio editor, promotions/production assistant from 2003-2005 was great fun! Aside from the seasonal PSA's I recorded, I was convinced my chances of ever breaking into "Voiceover Acting" were nearly none!!! But during my last browse through Audible, I came across a book (a very affordable, 15 minute book) that outlines all of the details, how to, websites, etc of How you can become an Audible Book Narrator!!! For the first time in 18 years, I feel hopeful and excited at the possibility of becoming just that!!! Because I have many years under my belt recording songs and a couple years doing PSA's I am very hopeful!
@SeanAllenPratt8 жыл бұрын
+Megan Torrie Stay focused and positive! Go check out ACX.com!
@artisanshrew8 жыл бұрын
Yes!!! Well.... I have been a Stay Home Mom since 2008 and the youngest of my two girls is starting Preschool. With the baby phase out of the way, a husband who fully supports our family - and encourages me to make the most of my - soon to be - free time.... Heck! I might as well chase a few dreams, right? ☺️👍 If I want it bad enough, I WILL get it! I've gotten every job I've ever wanted - because I don't stop till I get exactly what I want! 😊 For now, this is the season for me to set up my office, maybe break out the equipment I still have and - maybe call a few friends (the ones with recording studios, lol!!!) One things for sure, YOU ARE AN AMAZING GUY FOR BEING SO HELPFUL, OPEN AND ACCESSIBLE AS A MENTOR TO ENCOURAGE, INFORM AND INSPIRE all of the Hopefuls (both the genuine, the ignorant and the half-hearted...) Only time will tell which one of those I really am, I suppose!?!? Hahahaha!!!! 😉 Thanks Again Sean!!!
@troubleclef947 жыл бұрын
This is the BEST narration tutorial I've seen yet. Thanks!
@SeanAllenPratt7 жыл бұрын
You are very welcome. Good Luck!
@kathleencarpenito60714 жыл бұрын
Hi! I am just realizing how much I would like to become a narrator. First of all, thank you for this video it is just what I’ve been looking for. I absolutely love to read and escape into the wonderful world of audiobooks, something I haven’t really done very much of. I’ve always just read books myself. Funny what happened recently, I was reading so many books since the pandemic that I wanted to change it up a bit. So I started reading to myself....and I actually had fun. I was a preschool teacher a few years ago and I have always read aloud, including changing my voice for each character, love to sing, not just in the shower! I love to imitate other people’s voices and I guess you could say I’m a very animated person. I am also retired and have plenty of time to myself and would love to try. This brings me to why I would love to become a narrator!!! I am going to attempt the test....read books 1-2 hours a day in a small room with great acoustics....here I go, wish me luck!!
@lipsohlips975 жыл бұрын
before audiobooks became popular this is what I used to do whenever I read! I would read the book out loud with the intended emotion. My friends have told me I'm really good narrator and nice to listen too!
@anthonysimsii21322 жыл бұрын
Very sound wisdom. I'm sitting here looking at all these books to figure out what book should I test with first. However I think I will begin practicing on Short Stories just to see what it is like. Something simple and not complicated.
@SeanAllenPratt2 жыл бұрын
Smart move!
@RemiOlutimayin5 жыл бұрын
Hi, Sean. I want to say thank you.
@alexanderzamora59304 жыл бұрын
My first audiobook was a land of stories series by Chris Colfer. I used to think it was a copout when one tries to 'read' a book by listening to it. I also want to say that Chris Colfer acted the many characters in the books. It was interesting. I was so wrong because I learned to hone my listening skills and focus on the spoken word, NOT the written word. Spending an hour and a half achieving my 10000 steps (gyms are closed due to COVID-19) gets boring so I found a way to past the time and enjoy audiobooks. Now, I am 'reading' Lev Grossman's The Magician and Neil Gaiman's short stories. I am glad I gave audiobooks a try.
@owlreads2 жыл бұрын
I lucked out, I fell in love with narrating after getting all the equipment. But even as a beginner, often people ask me what it takes; I'm going to start tell them about your test.
@alyssasvlogs60225 ай бұрын
I’m gonna try this and add an update after two weeks because ppl have told me before I’ve had a good reading voice and it’s something that’s interested me for a long time.
@JaneDoe-zr4px8 жыл бұрын
Wow, what a brilliantly simple idea. Thank you so much for posting this.
@SeanAllenPratt8 жыл бұрын
+Jane Doe Thank you!
@remnantfewministriesminist4953 жыл бұрын
I am goiing to take this test. I have been narrating my books with my children for years. They still talk about those stories and the ad lib! I would even do change my voice working in drive-thru while in college! Just comes naturally. I have the rooms. I just need to learn how to stop and relax. Thanks fot this video!
@FaustinaJrSika2 жыл бұрын
I'm glad I've taken the step to research on what and how to go by this whole book narration thing. I'm going to take my time to do this test and build myself. Thank you for the lessons.
@valeriefuqua46416 ай бұрын
Definitely a good idea for people who are thinking this is what they want to do for a living. For me? I'm an artist and writer, primarily, so I was thinking I could just add this in as a side thing for some extra cash. And when I'm in the zone, reading something and focusing on my voice and what I hear and see in the book, the rest of the world is pretty-well gone. I actually spent a couple years recording videos and then editing them, so I know I can do what I want to do with this. I was hoping for a little more direction on how to get started. Guess I'll try contacting you on FB, like you say.
@sohailmukadam36125 жыл бұрын
I am just beginning with your test. i will get back to you as soon as i get it done. thank you very much
@laserfloyd Жыл бұрын
I'm going to give myself this test. No idea how I'll do but I do like the idea of being in a cozy space reading aloud from a book. I don't know if I have the right kind of voice though. It's low but a tiny bit gravel-y-ish. I'm not a loud person naturally. Either way, I'll give this a go and see if it's something I enjoy and want to approach the next step. Great vid!
@cookiekhoala2 жыл бұрын
Great advice. Everyone in my life always tells me I'm a great reader and should read audiobooks. I am starting to take them seriously, as I do love reading aloud and giving characters voices and accents and such.
@bennyfifeaudio4 жыл бұрын
I didn't do this test to start, but I've been narrating for almost 2 years & I love it. Definitely a good barometer of if you would enjoy it.
@alecfleming3735 жыл бұрын
I am committing to the test. This is an interesting job, something I will try as I do have my education in audio engineering.
@SeanAllenPratt5 жыл бұрын
Alec Fleming Good luck!
@alecfleming3735 жыл бұрын
@@SeanAllenPratt Thank you! I have decided on a book called The Human Zoo by Desmond Morris. I plan nothing fancy, but maybe I shall upload it to youtube, because that book is really good and also out of print.
@cieralexine4 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for your advice and honesty. Definitely going to try this test.
@rowanmckinney8 жыл бұрын
This is exactly the test I was looking for! I'm going to record (since I already have the equipment available) and post my 2 week segment on librivox for listener feedback. I was planning on using a nook, which I hope does not make sound, but you setup looks like a good plan B. thanks!
@salaciousBastard8 жыл бұрын
Never heard of librivox. I might try that too.
@LisaB_122044 жыл бұрын
Gentle Sea Pratt...using your book for self-promotion -----smart. I wish you much success in your future. And dear sir, your test is brilliant!!!
@Tutorialist7 жыл бұрын
I just wanted to add that I have been listening to your book and it is excellent. Very good advice. Thank you. And best wishes. I hope lots of groovy (dating myself) books come your way.
@dankhnw88 жыл бұрын
I've been doing this test for fun even before I watched this video XD. Got used to my voice so YAY to fun :D
@christinajohnson69079 жыл бұрын
Brilliant move creating a method to weed out merely curious from those truly serious. My husband is a real estate appraiser and he employs similar method with people who want to become an appraiser. For those not in the know, real property appraising is the only profession that's federally monitored and policed. He makes the job sound worse than it is; however, his portrayal is not a lie. There are many reasons why real estate appraising is hard and he shares them with interested parties. He tells them and should they persist he invites them to shadow a typical day plus the ins and outs of running our own firm. If that doesn't deter he introduces them to the long process of not only being required to have a four year college degree but the apprenticeship rules, too. He shows them that in addition to college, so many appraisals under tight apprenticeship surveillance with documentation logs and appraiser classes must be taken and passed is required. After the apprenticeship program is met, then they must take a test; every so many years they must attend continuing education seminars, classes, and testing to maintain licensing standards. He tells them all the bad and they think he's kidding until they see. Like Mr Pratt says in this video some keep on in sincerity to follow through; others don't. My husband says to those who remain still should be warned; until dealing with issues from the real thing of actually being a duly licensed real property appraiser being in the field it still will seem fantasy. The stunningly harsh reality of being and doing the job is far cry from naieve romanticized ideas. If they remain then he helps. His time is valuable and doesn't want to waste time. In fact, he does it with our kids. Our eldest daughter is 21 and announced 36 months back she wants to be an appraiser taking over our firm. And my husband has routinely told her these things. She is serious. She is taking appraising apprentice classes while taking her college classes to have her apprentice requirements met, her certification tests taken, and have both college and real estate appraising diplomas in hand upon graduation. She will be ready to go straight from there. Most apprentices don't do it. They do college and graduate from there THEN begin the appraisal apprenticeship program. It delays their gainful employment. This method of Mr Pratt is sound advice and shows he cares. Just wanted to say this is born out of truth WITHOUT malice for the good of prospective narrators. Sorry this is long; just wanted to show him support over his idea.
@n.l.wallace79628 жыл бұрын
So I did the test and loved it. I learned so much about my voice and controlling my tone. Lots of work, but I loved it and I love books. I don't have the money for studio equipment to record. Is there another way that I can get a sample recorded without costing a lot of money. Thank you for the video. I have subscribed to your channel.
@sharpeshooter884 жыл бұрын
Hey, not sure if you're still looking for the information or even in the same place, but I made (essentially) a PVC cage draped with some blankets and sheets for about 20 dollars. It's not a whisper room, I'm quite certain, but it does deaden the room around me to a fair extent and the price is more than reasonable. might need to do thicker pvc or add more supports to hang heavier materials off of it
@jgfreer83223 жыл бұрын
Thanks! I will do this :)
@fwright101015 жыл бұрын
Thanks for posting this video. Will see how I feel about narrating books after I finish this test.
@Girlhead6 жыл бұрын
This is probably the best possible job I can think of. I wish I could do this.
@MrDoot_2 жыл бұрын
Yeah, I spent thousands on equipment and whatnot before really doing anything. Thank God I still enjoy it.
@user-zh9lq1dd9d5 жыл бұрын
I haven’t had the confined box part of the experience, but I think I can still say I’ve passed the test. I read all of the Harry Potter books aloud to my little sister. 1-2 chapters a night, so 1-2 hours at a time. (She also insisted that if I was going to read the books to her, I had to do the accents. Man, those are tiring.) But that’s what made me want to become an audiobook narrator. I don’t think I could get tired of it.
@SusheelChandradhas Жыл бұрын
Have you done it yet? Are you an audiobook narrator yet?
@harshapappala3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the advice, will do it..
@CarmaellaElia3 жыл бұрын
I've been interested in this for the longest time. I just need coaching. I'm not really sure where to start but for now maybe I'll post a few readings on youtube. This is a helpful video, thank you.
@meennujaiswal6 ай бұрын
Hi Sir, I'm not going to say I've been interested in this for many years, but it is just one week that I somehow feel connected with this. I didn't even know that something like this even existed. I will take the test for sure and see where it goes 🙂 Thank you 🙂
@SeanAllenPratt6 ай бұрын
Good luck!
@meennujaiswal6 ай бұрын
Thank you Sir@@SeanAllenPratt
@dr.javitamckinney88808 жыл бұрын
WOW!! I'VE DONE THE TEST AND IT'S A JOY FOR ME. FOR THE PAST FOUR YEARS OF NOT WORKING AS A TEACHER I'VE BEEN DOING INTERCESSION PRAYERS OUT LOUD WHICH TAKE 1-3 HOURS AND I'VE BEEN SINGING THROUGH MY HOME FOR AN HOUR OR MORE A DAY JUST TO DO MY PART IN PRAYING FOR OTHERS AND MYSELF AS AN ASSIGNMENT. IT DOESN'T FEEL LIKE A JOB. I'M TIRED IN A GOOD WAY LIKE I'VE ACCOMPLISHED A DAY OF SPEAKING INTO THE ATMOSPHERE AND CHANGING IT AS WELL AS PRAYING WITH OTHER INTERCESSORS AND HAVING A WONDERFUL TIME WITH GOD...PLEASE LE MET WORK AND TRAIN WITH YOU. GODSPEED...JAVITA..MY AUTHOR NAME IS JEWEL SOUTHERN
@Vahan.Vardanyan Жыл бұрын
The best advice i've see so far on the internet. Thank you ! And I am actually going to do that test ...
@SeanAllenPratt Жыл бұрын
Good Luck!
@Vahan.Vardanyan Жыл бұрын
@@SeanAllenPratt Thank you.
@susiezingaro25453 жыл бұрын
Great information and test!!! Thank you!
@Travlinmo3 жыл бұрын
Ha. As I am listening to this video I am just sure I am listening to you on my audible right now! Funny coincidence. Great reading of Little book of behavioral investing. I have mistaken you for Lloyd James before from the read of Starship Troopers.
@dinitarishal78924 жыл бұрын
I will definitely try this! Thank you Sean Pratt!
@MikeDownes4 жыл бұрын
Nice information and advice thanks.
@thisbetterman9 жыл бұрын
I love to read. I enjoy listening to Audibles very much. Ive often read out loud because I found it enjoyable. I have a chance to audition for one of my favorite authors, and this idea has never entered my mind. I will definitely do this and see if it is just going to be a hobby, or if I can make some sort of ancillary career. Thank you for this easy self-test to find out what it is really like to do this as a career.
@repalmore2 жыл бұрын
Haven't landed my first gig but my "studio" is a regular closet. Only 33X60 inches. I do open the door while I'm editing, pre reading etc. I do worry I will come down with "closet phobia" ;o) I got lucky, found a bunch of used equipment and was able to setup with a minimum of outlay.
@Tutorialist7 жыл бұрын
Thank you. And your shameless self-promotion of your book worked. I bought it!
@SeanAllenPratt7 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@michaelhaerast20463 жыл бұрын
I have been told by no less than four people, two of which are still voice actors, that I would be good at this. I'm going to do this test starting this weekend. I'm always in front of a mic in a booth recording vocal to tracks and guitar so it seems a natural transition.
@victorialamon48545 жыл бұрын
Thanks Sean
@kingmastersupreme48544 жыл бұрын
I found the info in this video to be very very valuable!!.....as it relates to me aspiring to read audiobooks in the future!......I MUST TEST MYSELF!! I Thank you for sharing Sir!
@VONidas3 жыл бұрын
Sean, thank you so much for posting this priceless video! I’m going to begin my 2 week test now! I will definitely be in touch with you soon! Keep up the excellent work!
@ArielSit8 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for this Sean. Great advice.
@Rahwriteswords2 жыл бұрын
I'm 25 and working on a collection of poems and excerpts that I'm writing. I'm really interested in audio storytelling and will most certainly give your test a shot. Thanks for the information ❤️
@kellylashea2886 Жыл бұрын
I love this! Thank you for sharing! I am going to try this!
@nathanpalubski48024 жыл бұрын
Thank you Sean for all the great tips. I found your video to be very helpful and professional. I'm trying my voice to break into this industry, just purchased all the equipment. Thank you, maybe you'll be hearing my narration soon.
@TheMediaPolitics10 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this. It's great advice. I didn't realize how much concentration and stamina it takes. Appreciate it.