The Process

My process for creating this video began with outlining the topics I wanted to cover, followed by drafting a rough script. This initial draft served as a guide while I filmed the video. After filming, I performed a rough edit in iMovie, focusing on cutting it down to an appropriate length and removing any unnecessary segments.

Next, I used my revised video to refine my script before doing a test recording with an MXL 2006, running through a Zoom H4. I opted for the MXL 2006 for my test recording because it allowed me to familiarize myself with general mic placement before heading to the studio. I planned to use a large diaphragm condenser for the final vocal recording.

Using the test recording, I made final adjustments to my script. I have learned from my past voiceover experiences that I often need to tweak the script after a few run-throughs. I aimed to complete this before going to the studio, as it helped me speak more fluidly during the final recording.

In the studio, I did a mic shootout with an AT4033 and a Neumann U87. I was confident that the U87 would work well, but I wanted to test the AT4033, given my previous successes with other studio-produced vocals. Ultimately, I found the sound from the AT4033 darker than I wanted for this video voiceover, but I am glad I took the time to explore my options.

After recording several takes of the voiceover, I comped the best pieces and eliminated any dead space. Following this, I applied EQ to add clarity and warmth to the vocals, along with a de-esser to control sibilance. I then added compression and finished with some automation and a hint of reverb to prevent the voiceover from sounding flat. My goal was to ensure clarity and legibility while maintaining a natural sound.

With my polished voiceover completed, I returned to iMovie to refine the video editing. I cut parts that were not longer part of the script and sped up slower sections that were important to keep. After adding transitions, I exported the video to CapCut, where I incorporated on-screen text.

Although I could have considered the video finished at this point, I felt it needed a final touch. While the primary focus was on creating the voiceover, I thought background music would help tie everything together. The challenge was to find music that was unobtrusive and available for commercial use. That's when I discovered ‘Morning Routine [Lofi Study Music]’ by Ghostrifter Official on Chosic.com.

Morning Routine by Ghostrifter Official | https://soundcloud.com/ghostrifter-official

Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/

Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

In ProTools, I blended this track with my voiceover, edited it to match the video's length, and applied EQ, compression, and automation. Finally, I bounced my mix to iZotope RX 11 to master the levels according to YouTube's guidelines.