When you see an animated movie, hear a commercial, or listen to a podcast, you’re probably hearing the work of a voice actor. In fact, a voice over is heard all the time in every type of media. Voice over is the off-screen delivery of a script or narration, either in a film, video game, or other audio piece. A voice actor can also provide character voices or give direction in a recording session.
The most important skill of a voice over actor is versatility. This does not necessarily mean vocal flexibility (though that is helpful), but the ability to adapt to feedback from directors, producers, or engineers and to work outside of their comfort zone. An actor’s ability to do this can make the difference between landing a big project and staying in their regular gigs.
Another vital skill is eye-brain-mouth coordination. This is the ability to read a script quickly and then deliver it verbally on cue. This is often done in a noisy recording studio and requires an excellent ability to concentrate and stay focused while listening for the “go ahead” from a director or producer and the “stop” cues from the engineer. Having this coordination is especially useful for delivering long, technical scripts that may require many takes.
A voice over artist can be male or female and usually has a clear, resonant voice. Some are able to imitate the style of different characters or narrators they’ve heard in movies, TV shows, or on the radio. They can also add personality to a production by choosing the tone, pitch, and energy level that best suits a particular project or audience.
The first step to becoming a voice over actor is creating a demo reel, or sample of voice work. This is the best way to demonstrate your talent and give a potential employer a sense of what you’re capable of doing. Most casting agencies will request a demo before they hire you for a job. Whether you’re looking to record your demo in a professional studio or at home, it’s important to take the time to do a quality job.
Once you’ve made a demo, it’s a good idea to find representation from an agent who specializes in voice acting. They can help you land auditions for jobs and negotiate your salary.
Lastly, it’s a good idea to network with other voice actors and industry pros. This is an essential part of career development in most creative fields, and it can open doors to new opportunities for a voice over actor. You can do this by joining a local acting group or attending conferences and workshops.