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For "Starters"

Q. What's the secret to getting into voice over acting?

The simple answer is, be a great actor and have a top notch voice over demo. (Then you just need opportunity )

Q: OK, how do I become a sought-after vo actor?

A: A great vo actor is a great actor, whether it's for voice-over for TV, voice over internet talent, radio voice overs, on camera, stage, etc. You can waste a lot of money spinning your wheels in a voice-over class without starting with a solid acting foundation. Also, study improv! This will teach you to make solid choices and get out of your head.

Q: Where can I find vo actor classes?

Ask around. Get recommendations from other actors. But remember, just because someone recommends a class or voice over demo service, doesn't mean it's right for you. Study with those who cast! It's a great way for them to get to know you and what you can do. And since they cast they know the industry trends in today's market.

There are plenty of voice over websites offering options for coaching and vo classes.

You’ll find them on the internet when you search for terms like voice over acting, voice over websites or voiceover studios. Another good place to start is by looking up voice over talent agencies on the search engines..

A: A bible for the VO Actor in L.A. is The Voice-over Resource Guide, published by Dave and Dave Inc. It lists everything voice-over in Los Angeles: teachers, casting services, voice over demo producers, talent agents, voice over websites, and even session fees. Their phone number is (818) 508-7578. They also do excellent voice over demo artwork, and offer Site design contact information for personal voice over websites as well.

Not in So.Cal? Check out voice over websites. that offer opportunities for vo actor coaching and production of your voice over demo

Q: What makes a good voice over demo?

A: A good commercial voice over demo moves fast, and leaves the listener asking for more. Your commercial demo is a montage of different commercial spots.. Your voice over demo producer will help you with the order and length of spots. Each sample shows a different side of "you In a minute and a half, you want to showcase the style(s) of commercial reads you do best. After hearing your voice over demo, the listener should be able to "type" you. That means they should be able to know what "types" of commercials you'd be right for. Again, look for well established talent’s voice over websites such as Jim Alburger’s Voice Over Acting extensive website; (voice over acting.com) or check with local voice over talent agencies to help guide you through the maze, advise a reputable voice over demo producer, and refer you to other good voice over websites worth knowing about!

Q: How often do I update my voice over demo?

A: If you've never worked in voice over acting , your first voice over demo will consist of spots done just for the demo. However, they need to sound like real spots. As you work you may replace them with real spots you've done Once your voice over demo consists of real work you should find more you have more variety in sound and styles. . You should strive for that same variety in sound in your very first voice over demo.

Q: OK, I have a voice over demo! Now what?? Do I have to get an agent?

A: Getting a voice-over agent is difficult. In major markets, voice-over talent agencies have simple recording studios, for auditions. Based on a script’s specifications, voice-over talent agencies will call the actors they feel are most appropriate for the role, then send the audition to the appropriate people.

One approach to get an agent is to have an established vo actor or teacher/casting director recommend you. You can also submit your voice over demo by mail, but ask if they’re accepting new demos first!

Good voice-over talent agencies listen to every submission. They never know when the next teriffic vo actor might come their way. NEVER call voice-over talent agencies asking if they've heard your voice over demo. They don't have time. Voice-over talent agencies gets tons of demos monthly. If they like your voice over demo and want to meet you they WILL get in touch.

If you don't get an agent on your first submission(s), reevaluate your voice over demo. Is it competitive? Does your personality stand out? How's your packaging? Were you ready for this voice over demo? If you decide to resubmit to voice-over talent agencies, wait a few months or so. You also might consider changing your packaging. You also might want to freshen up the mix a bit so they don't hear exactly the same voice over demo they passed on before.

For more info about Voice Over Talent Agencies and helpful Voice Over Websites, drop us a line!

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