Wathgwen wrote:Hi, I've not only been struggling with some technical issues but with massive nervousness with recording, as well. Not had a ton of time lately to relax and feel comfortable before trying to record, so that's been compounding things. I was wondering if it'd be possible to get an extension, and if anyone has any hints for first-time recorders to get over their self-consciousness!
I would like to add just a little bit more to what Aaron has said, he said it so beautifully. Just remember one thing, what you hear in the finished product is not at all like the raw recording that all readers have at the start. When I record, I record everything. I stumble, I start over, I cuss at myself (yes I really do!), my kids will walk in and ask me for lunch, absolutely everything. Normally a raw recording will be 2 to 3 times the amount of time that a finished recording will end up being, and for beginners it will be at least 3 times. It takes a lot of time to record, and it takes a lot of time to come up with a system that works for you. So, in a nutshell, find a good chunk of time where you can sit down in front of the microphone, with a glass of water, relax and just read. Don't worry about how you sound, don't worry about the rest of the world, it will all be fine. I promise.
And, if you are worried that you are having a hard time reading this text, guess what? So am I!! This book is hard, it is supposed to be because it is heavy science. I just recorded a section yesterday and it was tough for me. I had a hard time finding the rhythm of the writing, but I made it through and will get the other section read later today. You are fine, and I am easy on newbies when I PL their sections. You still have another month before your deadline, which is plenty of time! Have fun!