That’s right! It’s summer!

…and you can bet that most—if not all—voiceovers recorded from home studios during these scorching months are done so by somewhat sweaty actors. It’s just facts, folks!

Since the voice actors here at Voice Over for the Planet are always thinking about the environment, you can rest assured we’re trying our best to stay cool in ways that have the lowest possible impact on warming the planet any further.

So, how do we stay healthy and cool in our recording booths and offices when the temps are rising?

Here are some ideas:

• Stay Hydrated.
  Our number one suggestion is always to stay hydrated. A cool drink is both refreshing and essential! We aim for mostly uncaffeinated beverages since caffeine can be dehydrating—but let’s be real: coffee, matcha, tea, etc., are necessities for many of us! Just balance them with plenty of water (bonus points for a reusable water bottle).
• Fans—Strategically Used.
  Yes, we use fans—but only between takes. Many home studios are acoustically treated but lack air conditioning or ventilation. A small, quiet fan or personal desktop air cooler can do wonders.  Just make sure it’s off during recording!
• Shorter Sessions.
  Try breaking your recording into shorter sections, if possible. This allows you to crack the booth door open and let in some air between sessions. If you’re self-directing, take frequent mini-breaks. And if you’re working with a client, don’t be afraid to ask for a pause. Most are totally understanding—after all, you’re saving them a studio fee!
• Cool, Damp Bandana.
  A lightly damp bandana (extra refreshing if you freeze it for a few minutes) around your neck can make a huge difference. It cools the blood near the surface of your skin and helps regulate body temperature.
• Gadgets Galore!
  Voice actors love a good booth gadget. Some favorites include:
  • Wearable neck fans
  • Cooling vests
  • Mini portable AC units or evaporative coolers
  • Gel cooling packs (pop them in the freezer and drape over shoulders between sessions)
• Go Light on Clothing.
  Let’s just say… it’s not uncommon to record in very light (or little) clothing (or pajamas, or workout wear) during summer. Comfort is key. Loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen can keep you from overheating. Was the voiceover your hearing recorded by someone in their underwear? Shhh, we’ll never tell!
• Record Early or Late.
  If your schedule allows, try recording in the early morning or later in the evening when outside temperatures are lower. This is especially helpful in unventilated booths that trap heat during peak hours.
• Green Your Cooling Game.
  Use fans with timers or solar power where you can. Switch to energy-efficient devices. And if you must use AC, make sure your home is well insulated so it works efficiently and doesn’t waste energy.
• Bonus! Here’s a video from Jay Myers on his tips for voice actors to stay cool in the summer:

Final Thoughts: Keep Cool & Carry On

Recording voiceover during the hottest months of the year isn’t always glamorous, but it is doable with a little planning, creativity, and eco-conscious effort. At Voice Over for the Planet, we believe it’s possible to deliver hot reads while keeping our cool—and our carbon footprint—low.

So go ahead, request that summer campaign or sizzling narration. We’ve got the talent, the tenacity, and the sweatbands to make it happen.

Stay chill—and hydrated—out there!