Final Sound is a full-service Audio Post Production facility offering a wide range of services for various media productions; TV and Radio commercials, television shows, feature films, short films, animated series, documentaries, sound and video installations, mnemonic tools, podcasts and more. Their expertise covers everything from sound design and casting for advertising projects through to audio post, foley and ADR for longform projects. They also work with a handful of composers as required to produce music for advertising and occasionally long-form clients.
We sat down with Executive Producer Pip Wright to discuss the importance of creative collaboration, teamwork and education in the industry. Her calm demeanour and attention to detail have made her the perfect producer for any voice campaign. She has enormous experience starting her career in an advertising agency before moving into a long stint of production management for animation and VFX in feature films, before finally finding her home in audio post.
“We are a small team in a boutique business and as such, I have a few roles, a few hats to wear. Everything from Executive Producer, facilitator of good times and coffee maker… but I’ve got to say that the same equality goes for our founders, Paul Shanahan and Craig Conway and everyone in between. There’s no real delineation in our housekeeping or responsibility for keeping morale high here. It’s a real team effort!”
“As an Executive Producer every day is different, which is one of the things I love the most. Every job is new and exciting. Every session is different in its requirements, complexity, duration and reward. Generally, I don’t sit in on the sessions unless I am called for or if there is client management needed. For most of our client base, we know them, they know us and once they’re in the house, it’s smooth sailing. By the time the job is in progress, in session, in the studio with the creative team and/or clients attending, my job is pretty much done. It’s been scheduled, it’s been budgeted, the talent has been cast, by which time I’m back at my desk beavering away on other project planning, leaving the creative team to take it from there.”
“I love casting. Casting is hands down one of the highlights of my job. Typically, I lead the charge on all casting. Occasionally, I’ll receive a brief which I then collaborate on, discussing and brainstorming ideas with the rest of the team. But by and large, casting is my domain, aided by the invaluable support of trusted casting agents.”
Pip Wright, Final Sound
Casting voice actors
“Casting obviously starts with selecting the right voice, but the selected talent must also be able to take direction and handle the sometimes often changing moods of the session itself. For example, imagine bringing someone in for a role, say, as a Mum or Dad talking about nappies. They might only need to deliver a few lines in a consistent (eg, warm & caring) tone. Then, there are instances where versatility is key – perhaps they need to introduce a product and then also embody the brand’s voice. It’s critical to gauge their capabilities upfront and not just the tone or style of voice. And then, once they’re in the booth they must demonstrate an ability to take direction effectively.”
“I’m always mindful of that when I’m casting, there may be times when I think, well I’ve never worked with this talent before… It’s a four-line role, I’m not putting them forward for a giant brand VO, let’s give them a crack, let’s meet them and see how it goes in session. Let’s see how they take direction. Then, after a session, we put our heads together and review, “How did they go? What were they like today?”. Quality of voice and direction are the key factors – versatility, tone and direction.”
Winnie, the Production Assistant
Creating a connection with a good voice-over demo
“I’m a big believer in a natural read to kick off a demo. I think it’s important for the agency or client to hear the actor’s authentic, natural tone. Frequently, we’re looking for a style that may not be showcased in any of the commercials on the demo reel. Through a brief introduction, the artist has an excellent opportunity to show a range of versatility whilst highlighting their natural voice. I think it helps create a connection to the artist, to get a feel for their personality which can sometimes be helpful.”
Award School collaboration with Final Sound X EM Voices
Recently, in partnership with Award School Victoria and The Red Cross, Final Sound provided three Award School graduates an unforgettable working lesson in the value sound production craft contributes to their creative ideas. The initiative turning scripts from their Award School portfolios, into polished and fully produced radio spots.
“I love educating people, so we started a project and tasked aspiring creatives with creating a radio script for the Australian Red Cross. The project was cast solely out of EM Voices, which was a perfect collaboration. We thought what if we bring the scripts to life, how good would it be for the creatives behind the copy to go through the process and hear the result. It was especially important to us that students were given the opportunity to see the value of being in the studio in person, to direct talent and finesse their creative with a sound designer. And it was clear from their enthusiasm in the session and the final produced ads that they learned so much from the experience”
“One script was very talent-based. It was between God and a guy trying to get into heaven. It was funny and character-based, with God assessing a larrikin ‘s worthiness for entry to heaven. The second script was heavily sound effects based. The third one was based on Jesus writing his resignation because he’s just not needed anymore. So, it was driven by a single voice performance, with a sombre but comedic undertone.”
“Anyway, it was just great to be a part of. Great to meet some of the graduates and have a chat. Craig and I took them through what it means to have a good sound brief, a music brief, a casting brief. How if you get involved and trust your sound house and your casting, your producer or engineers it could make a really big difference. They were so into it, and it really was lovely to see and share in their enthusiasm”.
Education in the industry
“I’m really committed to helping educate people about the creative process, particularly in the realm of audio. It super important for people to understand the significance of clear communication, collaboration and nurturing creativity.”
What stands out about EM Voices compared to other agencies?
“It’s the breadth of knowledge, the super loveliness of the agents and their talent base is massive. EM Voices is always on the ball and responds quickly. They represent a really great, diverse bunch of talent. I can’t think of anything I want more than that.”
Curious about collaborating with us? Just Say The Word.
Whether you’re looking to compile a list of your favourite artists or seeking advice on casting, our team is here to help. As the leading voiceover agency in Australia, we represent the finest voices in the country, along with renowned actors of various styles, ages, accents, characters, and languages.
Our agency is deeply passionate about voiceovers and possesses a profound understanding of the industry and its talents.
We look forward to hearing from you and can’t wait to start connecting you with the voices you’ve been waiting to hear, to bring your campaign to life.
