Audiobook narrators are in demand to read books for others to listen to. Successful job candidates have voice-over training, familiarize themselves with many recorded audiobooks to help develop their style, and practice in a home studio.
If you’re looking for a flexible work-from-home job, you may want to learn more about working as an audiobook narrator.
This article will teach you what an audiobook narrator does, the skills needed to work as an audiobook narrator, and how to get started in this line of work. Keep reading to learn more!
Table of Contents
What Do Audiobook Narrator Jobs Involve?
Working as an audiobook narrator involves using recording software to read an audiobook out loud. Audiobook narrators are sometimes called voice actors or voice-over artists. Readers who want to listen as they rest or commute can hear the story.
What Skill Set And Credentials Do You Need For This Job?
To be an audiobook narrator, it’s helpful to have the following skills and credentials:
- A great voice
- Strong organizational skills
- Articulation
- Clear pronunciation
What Equipment Do You Need To Narrate An Audiobook?
To narrate an audiobook with quality audio, you need the following equipment:
Computer
You will need a computer to record and do audio editing. You don’t need a fancy computer, but having 8GB of RAM is ideal. Any computer that allows you to record and edit is fine!
You will also need a digital audio interface to connect your microphone to your computer and convert the analog signal from the mic into a digital signals
Microphone
A microphone and some type of microphone stand is also required for voice acting. Keep in mind, you can find very affordable microphones on Amazon!
Make sure to get a mic with a shock mount to protect your microphone so mechanical vibrations won’t interfere with your recording quality.
An E-reader such as a Kindle or iPad so you don’t pick up the sound of turning pages is helpful to have on hand. These devices allow you to high different characters so you can seamlessly change voices.
Recording Space
You will also need some type of recording space. You don’t need a professional recording studio to be successful and create a great listening experience! You can use a small, quiet space and sound-proofing materials to make your own recording space at home.
Recording Software
You will need some type of recording software to record your audio. Many beginners start with Audacity. You can get started with a free account! Other choices for beginners are Twisted Wave, Reaper, and Studio One
Pop Filter
A pop filter is not required but can be very helpful for voice actors. A pop filter is a noise protection filter that can help reduce popping noises that happen when recording audio.
Headphones
Headphones are also not required but can assist you while recording. Using headphones can help you hear what you are reading so you do not waste hours recording only to find that your sound was quiet or off.
Though there is not too much equipment needed to be an audiobook narrator, you could also purchase recording sessions at a recording studio. This is a great option if you don’t want to purchase these items for yourself when you are just planning on recording one book.
If you decide to pursue a full-time career in narration, you can always upgrade your equipment if you need to.
What Does It Take To Be A Successful Audiobook Narrator?
To be a successful audiobook narrator, experts recommend listening to a lot of audiobooks. This can help you understand various pacing, rhythms, and narration styles that other audiobook narrators use.
Additionally, to be successful, it can help to take voice acting classes and learn more about audio editing. Successful narrators perfect their skills with coaching and practice all they can by reading to kids at the library, to seniors, or to the blind,
A narrator needs a strong, clear voice with a pitch, tone, and energy that remain consistent throughout the project. The narrator must create a voice for each character, read with excellent pronunciation, and properly control their breath. Both practice and acting lessons help narrators hone their skills and get more jobs.
How Do You Get A Job As An Audiobook Narrator?
Now that you know more about audiobook narration, you may be wondering how to get a job as an audiobook narrator. One of the best ways to get a job as an audiobook narrator is to create a profile on a website that connects you to potential clients.
Having a standout website with links to recorded samples can also help you build a following and get you gigs.
1. What Is ACX And What Does It Have To Do With Getting A Job?
Audiobook Creation Exchange, or ACX, is a website that helps voice actors connect with potential clients and gig opportunities. If you are just starting out as an audiobook narrator, ACX is a great place to find freelance jobs!
The company is owned by Audible, an Amazon company, which produces books affordably, then offers a marketing outlet.
ACX Alternatives
If you are looking for ACX alternatives, you may want to check out these options:
2. Where Can I Audition For Audiobooks Narrator Jobs?
There are many places online where you can audition for voice acting jobs! You can audition for audiobook narrator jobs on ACX or the other sites offering voice-over jobs like UpWork, Fiverr, Freelancer, Voices.com, and BunnyStudio.
Having a standout website with links to recorded samples can also help you build a following and get you gigs.
3. What Is The Best Way To Get Started As An Audiobook Narrator?
To get started as an audiobook narrator, create an ACX account and find a book that looks interesting, and audition!
Though many voice actors get started with ACX, you can find potential clients on other freelance or gig sites. You also may have luck finding work on social media platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn.
It can be worthwhile to connect with your network on social media to see if anyone in your network is looking for audiobook narration help!
It is also a good idea to create a few audio samples and put together a portfolio. When potential clients are considering working with you, they often like to hear samples of your work.
4. How Many Hours Do Audiobook Narrators Work?
Audiobook narrator hours vary. Some audiobook narrators do gigs as a side hustle, while others choose to work full-time. The process can take days or weeks to complete.
If you are new to audiobook narrating, you could start some voice-over jobs or narration work as a side hustle and slowly grow your client base. If you end up loving the work, you could eventually take it full-time!
How Much Does An Audiobook Narrator Make?
According to ZipRecruiter, the average audiobook narrator makes $32,569 per year. This can vary greatly, depending on how much experience you have and how many hours you can work. Location also matters, as narrators in New York City or Los Angeles might earn up to $10,000 more per year.
As with many jobs, you will likely start with lower pay and be able to increase your hourly rate as you become more experienced and gain the trust of clients!
Audiobook narrators are typically paid hourly or with royalty shares. The going rate is between $10 and $100 is per finished hour (PFH); more experienced narrators receive between $100 and $350 PFH. Many authors prefer to pay royalties which costs them nothing upfront. ACX gets half the profits from each sale, while the author and narrator each get 25%. This amounts to about $2 per sale. Some narrators are members of SAG-AFTRA, which guarantees beginning narrators $138.26 PFH.
We hope this guide helps you understand more about the audiobook industry!
