I have lost count how many times I’ve been asked this question. And I don’t blame people for asking either…it’s a pretty cool gig 😉).
I usually respond with a PDF that includes general thoughts on the biz as well as resources to get folks started on their research.
Here is an abbreviated version for your reading pleasure:
Ok…there’s a lot of info to digest here, but it’s all good stuff. Some of what’s written involves, not just my input, but also the collective input of many successful people in the VO business.
First, some thoughts about the business in general:
Voiceover is a really fun occupation, but it’s also a BUSINESS and needs to be run like one. Not only are you the talent, you’re also the Marketing Department, Communications Director, Billing, and sometimes even Collections (you DO want paid for all that hard work, don’t ya? ;))
Being a voice actor is much more involved than just having a good voice. In fact, that is the LEAST important aspect. A successful voice actor is…an actor 🙂 It’s all about how you read and interpret the copy. Any chance you have to take an acting or improv class…do it!
Training is important and should continue throughout your career…it never really stops, the type of training just evolves as you do.
A few things to keep in mind:
– Do not pay money to produce a demo with anyone that does not first offer you training. Research every coach and/or class you consider. Get testimonials from SUCCESSFUL voice talents. Some businesses/coaches offer a weekend course that includes a demo at the end…run far, far, away from them.
– Along similar lines, the point of a demo is to showcase what you can do. If you can’t actually perform on the promises of the demo, then you won’t last long in this industry. Do NOT make a demo until you’re ready!
Here are a few books and websites to help you with your research. There are literally hundreds of great sites and books available out there. These are just some of my favorites.
Books about voice over:
– There’s Money Where Your Mouth Is by Elaine Clark (I cannot recommend this one enough)
– The Art of Voice Acting by James Alburger
– Sound Advice: Voiceover from an Audio Engineer’s Perspective by Dan Friedman (Dan absolutely knows his stuff. He’s an audio engineer as well as an established VO Talent)
-The Voiceover Entrance Exam – A free e-book by Peter O’Connell. He’s a great guy, an established VO Talent, and very knowledgeable. You can download the e-book at http://www.voiceoverentranceexam.com
Other Resources:
– Anything written or taught by Pat Fraley if you are interested in animation, character, or audiobook VO (or anything…he is just full of awesomeness :D) https://patfraley.com/pf/free -LOTS of free lessons from Pat…did I mention they’re FREE?
Podcasts (a great FREE resource):
VO School Podcast –
http://www.voschoolpodcast.com
VO Boss –
https://voboss.com
Mike Lenz –
http://www.mikelenzvoice.com/podcast.html
Talkin Toons with Rob Paulsen –
http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talkin-toons-rob-paulsenweekly/
id438294853
Voice Over Café –
http://voiceovercafe.org/
3 AmiVOs –
http://www.3amivos.com/
Websites/Web shows about voice over:
http://www.vobuzzweekly.com/
-Interviews with people from various parts of the biz. It’s a great show…I try not to miss it. They also have a YouTube channel
http://vobs.tv/
– The Voice Over Body Shop
Great site for technical info and tips. I know these guys and they are very knowledgeable.
https://iwanttobeavoiceactor.com
https://iwanttobeavoiceactor.com/research/
-Dee Bradley Baker’s VO info page
http://www.voiceoverxtra.com
-Lots of great VO articles here
https://www.world-voices.org/
– WoVO (World Voices Organization)
http://www.globalvoiceacademy.com/
-GVAA – Global Voice Acting Academy
http://www.edgestudio.com/careerbuilding.htm
-VO resources from Edge Studios
That should be plenty to keep you busy in your research. I hope the information is useful to you!
When you do something that you love for a living, it can sometimes be tough to remember that you also have other interests (wait…you do have other interests, right? If not, maybe start trying new things and see what clicks). As much as you may really love your work, it’s important to take breaks and recharge the batteries. I do this by getting outdoors whenever possible. If you’re in an area that’s still in lockdown due to Covid-19 your options may be limited, but something as simple as just sitting outside in your yard or taking a walk around the block can be really helpful for your psyche.