Do You Really Need a Script for Your Business Video?
Some clients come to us with a full script. Others just want to wing it. Most…
When planning a video, most clients eventually ask the same question: “Should we use a voiceover or talking head”.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on what the video needs to do, who it’s for, and how it will be used. We help clients decide by asking a few simple questions, and by showing examples that match their goals.
Here’s how we guide the process.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on what the video needs to do, who it’s for, and how it will be used. We help clients decide by asking a few simple questions, and by showing examples that match their goals.
Here’s how we guide the process.
What’s the Message, and Who’s It For?
This is where we start. If the video is technical, detailed or aimed at a specialist audience, a voiceover often makes sense. It keeps things clear, focused and easy to follow, especially if you’re showing graphics, diagrams or product features.
But if the video is about people, trust or company culture, a talking head (someone speaking directly to camera) often works better. It gives the message a face. That can make it feel more personal, more confident and more real.
In short:
But if the video is about people, trust or company culture, a talking head (someone speaking directly to camera) often works better. It gives the message a face. That can make it feel more personal, more confident and more real.
In short:
- Voiceovers are useful when clarity is the goal.
- Talking heads are useful when connection is the goal.
Is Someone Comfortable on Camera?
It sounds obvious, but it matters. If your CEO, product manager or client is confident on camera, then a talking head can be great. It adds personality and trust. But if they’re nervous or unsure, the result can feel awkward.
Not everyone wants to be on camera. And that’s fine. We sometimes record voiceovers with the same person, then layer it over footage of them working, walking or speaking to others. That way, they still feature in the video, just in a more relaxed way. Or we can hire a voice actor to read the lines.
Not everyone wants to be on camera. And that’s fine. We sometimes record voiceovers with the same person, then layer it over footage of them working, walking or speaking to others. That way, they still feature in the video, just in a more relaxed way. Or we can hire a voice actor to read the lines.
What Will Be on Screen?
If your video shows a product, process or location, then voiceover keeps the attention on what’s happening visually. We can guide the viewer through what they’re seeing without distracting from it. If the video is mainly one person delivering a message, say a company announcement or personal introduction, then a talking head is often best. It feels more direct and honest.
Where Will the Video Be Used?
Different platforms suit different styles.
On LinkedIn or a website homepage, a talking head often works well. People like seeing a real person speak. It builds trust quickly. On product pages or internal training platforms, a voiceover might work better. It keeps the focus on the content, not the presenter.
We usually ask where the video will live and what the viewer needs to do next. That helps shape the format.
On LinkedIn or a website homepage, a talking head often works well. People like seeing a real person speak. It builds trust quickly. On product pages or internal training platforms, a voiceover might work better. It keeps the focus on the content, not the presenter.
We usually ask where the video will live and what the viewer needs to do next. That helps shape the format.
What If You’re Still Not Sure?
Sometimes we shoot both. One version with voiceover. One with someone speaking to camera. We then see what works best once we start editing.
You don’t always need to decide upfront. We build in flexibility when planning the shoot so you’re not boxed into one choice.
You don’t always need to decide upfront. We build in flexibility when planning the shoot so you’re not boxed into one choice.
Both voiceover and talking head styles can be effective, it just depends on what you're trying to say and how you want to say it.
If you’ve got a message but aren’t sure how to deliver it, we’re happy to help. We’ll talk you through the options, show you examples, and guide you to a style that feels right. Send us a message, and we’ll help you find the best way to bring your message to life on screen.
If you’ve got a message but aren’t sure how to deliver it, we’re happy to help. We’ll talk you through the options, show you examples, and guide you to a style that feels right. Send us a message, and we’ll help you find the best way to bring your message to life on screen.
