How to Become a Voiceover Artist
Whether they’re bringing life to characters in animated films, narrating documentary segments or simply welcoming visitors to websites or guiding road trips as the voice of a GPS, voiceover artists are constantly in demand. While some may miss the tight-knit community and energetic studio sessions that characterized this industry in the past, for those armed with the right skills, there has never been a better time to make a living as a voice actor.
For any professional who is aspiring to become a voiceover artist, it’s important to learn the voiceover requirements that are necessary for success. One of the most essential is a clear, crisp voice with proper pronunciation. In addition, the voiceover artist should be able to adapt their voice and tone to match the specific recording’s content, audience and purpose.
Another important skill is the ability to create and maintain a strong portfolio of voice work. This includes the creation of a demo reel, which is essentially a portfolio that showcases your range of voices and talents. A good demo should feature imitations of different voices based on pre-existing scripts and demonstrate your ability to improvise if necessary.
In addition to creating a robust portfolio of voice-related work, it’s also important for any prospective voiceover artist to develop a network of contacts in the industry. This includes establishing relationships with production companies who can refer you to potential clients and help you find more work. It’s also helpful to join a voice acting agency or guild in order to gain more industry exposure and increase your chances of finding jobs that match your skillset and preferences.