How to Become a Voice Over Artist

Many people are under the mistaken belief that all voice over actors must have that “unforgettable” vocal quality. This is not the case. Voice-over actors have a wide array of talents and vocal types. Just as different types of actors are needed, it is also true as to voice-over actors. Often, it is more important to have a professional approach to the voice-over business than having “that unforgettable voice.” The ability to use different vocals is what made the legendary Mel Blanc a star. Blanc provided many of the voices for cartoons produced by Warner Bros. Studios including the voices for Daffy Duck, Bugs Bunny, Roadrunner, Yosemite Sam and many others. Voice-over actors are needed for producing films, radio and television shows, commercials and cartoons.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Demo CDs
• Resumé
• Music beds
• 8 x 10-inch black and white publicity photo (recommended)
• Postage
• CD cover design and layout (recommended)
• Recording studio time or access
• CD and photo mailing envelopes

1. Start with a lot of confidence. The voice-over business is highly competitive but you can become successful at it if you follow some simple steps towards that goal. Attending acting school or having a voice-over coach can be helpful, but it is not a requirement to become a successful voice-over actor.

2. Write and outline how your demo CD will be set-up. Determine the sequence of your scripts. Start with your best script read first.

3. Purchase music and sound effect beds. This will be instrumental in the recording process.

4. Practice speaking by reading scripts that you intend to use on your demo CD.

5. Arrange for a recording session in a recording studio and pay for the studio time in advance. Billing is based on the number of hours and days that you are reserving.

6. Record your demo CD in the recording studio. Keep in mind that additional time will be required for post-production such as mixing, editing, formatting and recording additional materials such as sound effects.

7. Prepare a media kit. A basic media kit should include an 8 x 10-inch black and white photo, contact information, list of credits (if any), cover letter, resumé and demo CD. These materials should be placed into a two pocket file folder (preferably subtle toned, dark blue or black folders).

8. Make copies of all correspondence that you are sending out in the mail.

9. Submit your media kit (including your demo CD) to potential casting agents or voice-over actor’s agents. Be sure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with adequate return postage for a reply.

Tips & Warnings

• The more you practice your lines before going into a recording studio to record your demo CD, the cheaper it will be for you in terms of recording studio time needed.
• Be sure to comply with all copyrights laws relative to your use of copyrighted material.

Resources

• Information relating to the voice-over marketplace