Thinking of an AT897 shotgun for voiceover work ahead of a large diaphragm condenser, primarily because it can double for on-camera use as well?

What's the best way to position a shotgun relative to the mouth for voiceover? Straight in front? Off to the side? Diagonally (like 45 degrees)? How far away? With a pop filter or not?

Thanks!

45 or to the side is the *generally* accepted method. Pop filters are great, but you likely don't need one if you are to the side/45.
The 897 makes for very nice V/0 work in a lot of instances. Not as robust nor warm as most large diaphragms, but you can always add some of that warmth in post.