Here are three things you can do right away.
Keep A Notebook
Jot down the day and time that you practiced and what copy or script you used such as a commercial, a narration or a character read. Make detailed notes about how your voice sounded. For example; rough, dry, wet, lower pitch, higher pitch, etc. Make notes about any areas you need to work on such as; diction, pacing or your breathing.
If you’re interested in character voice work, a notebook is an invaluable tool. When you come up with a new character voice (or new vocal attitude), give it a name and a back-story and put it in your notebook. By turning these voices into real characters it will help in your recall of them when you need them later on. Referring to “Gizmo the Sprightly Elf” is easier than “that high-pitched squeak where I talk through my nose with a lisp.”
One voice actor I know, keeps a photo or picture of every one of his character voices on his cell phone. When he needs some inspiration or help recalling a character, he can quickly look them up no matter where he is.
Build a Knowledge Base
Go online and search for voice actors, producers and casting companies. Study their web sites for content, features and demos. Bookmark the good ones and visit them often. Search for articles and news about voice overs and read up on the industry. Try to spot trends. Keep your eyes open to the various ways people use their voice to make money.
Read Books
There are lots of books written about voice-overs, and while none of them can replace face-to-face training or practical hands-on experience, many of the authors have a lot of interesting things to say about the voice-over business. There are several we like for their fascinating anecdotes, character work examples and general information about the voice over business.
Stew Crossen - Stew Crossen is the owner of Voice Over Workshop LLC, a voice-over production firm specializing in the spoken word for Radio & TV commercials, Internet.
NEED A VOICEOVER? Choose Chicago Voice Actor Justin Kaiser when making your next casting decision. Call me at (815) 401-4632.
TECHNICAL AND WEB CONSULTING: I’m also available for one on one gear setup, web-design, and podcast consulting. Whether you want someone to get everything set up for you or you just need a little help along the way, I’d love to work with you. Call me at (815) 401-4632.
To Your Voice Acting Success!
