I get it. Embrace AI. Goodness knows there are enough industry folks ready to show you how excited they are about how AI will benefit video production. Just scroll up or down. We are too… we’re just not as vocal about it.
But as the video production world drifts further and further into the world of AI, there’s one area in particular that 522 is not quite comfortable going all in on just yet: voicoevers.
Don’t get me wrong – there are a ton of areas where we use AI in the creative process: from enhancing client-provided images to generating transcripts. But this is one of the areas that we’ve seen… erm, heard… people try out, and just like Marvin Gaye said, ‘there ain’t nothing like the real thing, baby’.
Voiceovers play such a critical part in telling the story. Like… literally. The right voice can make you sound compassionate, playful, like an authority, or even global. Yes, these are prompts that you can put into the generator, but as good as these machines are, it’s still difficult to dial in the nuances of inflection, warmth, or curiosity.
If everyone had their way, Morgan Freeman would soon be the voice of half the brands out there… or at least, a bot that sounds like him.
But here’s the thing: using a real, professional voiceover artist for your video work is one of the best investments you can make. Why? Because humans actually feel things.
Things like…
1. Emotion, Baby!
AI-generated voices may have come a long way, but they still sound like an overly polite GPS that’s low-key judging your driving skills. Real voice actors, on the other hand, can convey excitement, urgency, warmth, or that subtle “I know exactly how to make you trust this brand” tone. They add personality, depth, and, most importantly, believability to your video.
2. No Awkward Pauses or Weird Intonations
Ever heard an AI voiceover get just a little too excited about the word “synergy”? Or, worse, pause in the middle of a sentence like it suddenly forgot how to be human? Real voice actors have a natural cadence and rhythm that AI still struggles to replicate. Sure, you can artificially fix some things in post… but that doesn’t always mean that your message flows smoothly. Ideally this means that no one is left wondering if your brand is secretly run by robots.
3. Adaptability & Authenticity
Need someone to sound like an enthusiastic Gen Z influencer? A grizzled cowboy? A no-nonsense CEO? A real voice actor can switch tones and styles on the fly, adjusting their performance to match your brand’s personality. AI? Not quite yet. Working with a voiceover artist allows you to dial them in in real time. Not sure how typing in “Hey, Jimmy… that was great! But let’s dial back the pirate just a skosh.” would translate. For example, we’ve always love the warmth and personality that our VO artist Christy Harst in the video we produced for Savan Group.
4. A Human Connection = More Engagement
People connect with other people. We’re wired for it. Studies show that audiences are more likely to trust and engage with brands that feel personal and relatable. A professional voiceover artist doesn’t just read your script; they breathe life into it. They become your brand. It can be the difference between a video people watch and a video people remember.
5. You Get What You Pay For
Sure, AI voiceover tools can save you money, but at what cost? (Other than your soul, of course.) If your video sounds robotic or uninspired, your audience will pick up on that. And if they tune out, your message is lost. You may save some dollars, but lose your audience. Professional voice actors ensure that your investment actually works – keeping your audience engaged and making your brand sound polished, professional, and, dare I say, human.
Final Verdict: AI is Cool, But Humans Win This Round
Look, AI voice tools have their place – like when you need a quick mock-up or a scratch (placeholder) narration. But if you want your video to actually connect with people, make an impact, and sound like it wasn’t recorded inside a toaster, go with a real voice actor.
Because nothing says “trust us” like a voice that doesn’t sound like it’s about to ask you to press 1 for more options.
But – we’re always open to others’ ideas. Curious as to what you think about using AI for VO. Would love to hear your thoughts!