As a voice actor, you have the opportunity to lend your voice to a wide range of projects, including audiobooks, commercials, cartoons, video games, and more. If you have a great speaking voice and the ability to bring characters to life with your performance, then a career as a voice actor might be right for you.
Here are some steps you can take to become a voice actor:
- Develop your skills
To become a successful voice actor, you will need to have a strong foundation in acting techniques, including voice projection, diction, pacing, inflection, and character development. You can develop these skills through acting classes or workshops, or by working with a vocal coach. It can also be helpful to listen to other voice actors and study their techniques and performances.
- Create a demo reel
A demo reel is a short recording of your voice acting skills that you can use to showcase your talents to potential clients. To create a demo reel, you will need to record several short clips of you performing different types of voice acting, such as commercials, narration, and character voices. Be sure to include a variety of genres and styles in your demo reel to show off your range as a voice actor.
- Build a website
In today’s digital age, it’s important to have an online presence as a voice actor. A website allows you to showcase your demo reel, list your credits and experience, and provide contact information for potential clients. You can use a website builder or hire a web designer to create a professional-looking website for you.
- Find a job
An option is to join a platform that connects voice actors and text actors with clients. These platforms often have a large pool of clients looking for talent, making it easier for you to find work. Some popular platforms in this space include Voices.com, Voice123, and Upwork. These platforms usually charge a fee for their services, either to the client or to the talent.
In addition to online resources, you can also find voice acting and texting jobs through local casting directors and production companies. Many cities have a thriving film and television industry, and these companies are always on the lookout for new talent. Attend industry events and networking events, and consider joining a local acting guild or union to stay up to date on local casting calls and job opportunities.
- Network and market yourself
Marketing yourself is an important part of building a successful career as a voice actor. In addition to maintaining a strong online presence, you should also network with industry professionals and attend events and conferences to make connections and find job opportunities. You can also join online communities and forums for voice actors, and consider creating a social media presence to promote your work.
- Stay up to date
The voice acting industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay up to date on the latest trends and techniques. Consider joining a professional organization, such as the Society of Voice Arts and Sciences, or taking continuing education classes to stay current in the field.
With hard work, dedication, and a strong set of skills, you can build a successful career as a voice actor. Whether you’re interested in voicing commercials, audiobooks, video games, or anything in between, there is always a demand for talented voice actors. So if you have a great speaking voice and the desire to bring characters to life, consider pursuing a career as a voice actor.