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An art to audio editing for podcasts exists. Most listeners will not hear small background noises. However, the audio editor will notice it. Editing audio is similar to editing television and streaming programming.
Editors must make scene transitions seamless. Sound editors must ensure that listeners hear every word spoken clearly, especially on podcasts.
Even if listeners can’t hear videos well, they can make out the words by watching the mouths of the speakers. Podcasts don’t allow listeners to see visual cues. Thus, the skills of audio editors become more critical.
The following are seven audio editing tips for amazing podcasts.
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Test Several Settings
After picking a profession, aim to master it, especially as a freelancer. You should have curiosity about your job tasks. Then, explore how the tools of your trade work.
Editing audio requires tools. After an online search, you’ll notice that several options exist. Reading the reviews will help you narrow down the possibilities. Then, obtain the free versions or those with free trials, and test several settings.
Ideally, you’ll have a gift for navigating around the settings and little to no learning curve.
Knowing the results you want to achieve makes the testing phase efficient. For example, common podcast audio issues include:
Different levels from one take to another
Microphone echo
Ambient noise
Garbled voices
The room causes acoustic and frequency issues
Therefore, you’ll need to know how to fix each. Achieving the best sound starts with a solid foundation. Some clients might send you files that need editing and several fixes. Others will provide a better product that needs simple editing.
Nonetheless, by testing the settings, you’ll know what each achieves.
Some individuals test their skills to become professionals. Learn how to start a freelance audio editor business.
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Establish an Audio Foundation
As a freelance audio editor, you’ll pick your clients. You’ll also decide the scope of your services.
You might simply edit the files that clients send to you. As you scale your business, you might help clients establish good practices when recording their podcasts.
Another option is to edit your podcasts that you can use as samples for prospective clients.
Therefore, establish an audio foundation. Learn the ins and outs of editing. Follow industry news and veteran professionals who offer tips to those entering the field.
It helps to learn the jargon since you’ll need it for speaking with other industry professionals. The terminology comes in handy when you’re ready to invest in equipment.
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Invest in Equipment
Top-notch sound editing equipment exists for individuals and businesses. However, you need to assess if you have the financial runway to purchase it from day one.
Several comparable equipment options exist at lower prices, especially software. For example, you can purchase software with limited features for less.
As your business gains clients and notoriety, you can scale equipment investments with growth.
The free and limited versions provide another benefit – you can try before you buy. After all, there is no sense in investing in equipment that doesn’t have all the features you need. Your investment should help you become more efficient, not slow you down.
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Master the Equipment and Software
Now you’re ready to master the equipment and software. During your free time, test all their features. You might discover how to solve a common audio issue for podcasts that delivers quick results.
Plus, you want to impress your clients.
So break out the instruction manuals, read the fine print, and listen to online tutorials. Some people record videos and podcasts to share information about the cool that equipment like yours can accomplish.
In some ways, they want to brag about their ingenuity. However, it’s great for people who need the information.
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Listen Before Editing
Industry professionals recommend that editors should listen to the files once before editing. A weird microphone echo might occur at several random points, not just once. Thus, you can take notes during the first listen.
It might feel inefficient to sit and listen for one hour without completing any work. However, taking notes improves your efficiency. They allow you to prepare for the items that you will troubleshoot.
For example, the background ambient noise might run throughout the podcast. Then, you might only hear sudden noises in the background once or twice.
Ideally, your clients will use recording equipment that reduces audible sounds that distract listeners. If they don’t, it’s up to you to clean it up.
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Keep It Simple
Whatever approach you take to editing podcast audio files, keep it simple. Those passionate for this field will discover how to complete cool things with their equipment and software.
However, think about what the client wants.
Some clients will have pressing deadlines that you need to meet. For example, they might hand you their files on Tuesday. Then, the client needs them back by Thursday so they can publish on Friday.
Every project that you complete will help you perfect your process.
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Watch the Settings While Recording
Podcast audio editors who guide clients will benefit from this tip.
If you work directly with podcasters as their sound professionals, watch the settings while they record. Then, you can make adjustments that will make editing the files easier later.
Most audio editors charge by the file length. Charges range between $50 and $150 for every hour of raw content. Then, the client expects you to spruce it up.
For clients who send you their files, consider giving them tips on how to improve their audio. You’ll still edit an hour of raw content, but it will arrive in better shape.
Therefore, inserting your services into the recording process creates a win-win situation.
Conclusion
Although the boom of podcasts has started returning to Earth, editing audio for podcasters is still a service that’s in demand. To improve your editing skills and deliver great final products, invest in stellar equipment as your business grows. Then, become familiar with it on an expert level so you can deliver high-quality work efficiently.
