There is more than one way to become an actor. Though some have dreams of becoming a movie star, others may think about acting in a way that offers a wider range of work options as well as the ability to act from anywhere in the world.
The latter is perhaps more appealing than ever before.
After the COVID-19 pandemic locked down much of the world and made travel virtually impossible for many, a lot of actors were left either unable to work or only able to work in a significantly restricted fashion.
Which actors aren't left restricted by the COVID-19 pandemic? Voice actors!
Voice acting is in some ways a very different profession compared to acting on film, television, or stage, but in other ways, it's quite similar.
Voice actors don't necessarily have to adhere to the same strict beauty standards that other actors must, which means that there is more potential diversity within the voice acting industry.
For that matter, voice actors get to play a wider variety of roles. If you're able to change your voice dramatically, you may be able to play children and adults alike.
Voice actors can voice animals, to work in film and television, as well as documentaries and instructional videos.
Moreover, voice actors are even needed to record professional voice mails!
You could be a voice actor for movie trailers, and simultaneously hold a long-term role in a series.
It's no wonder that major film actors are now getting into voice acting. But not everyone can be a voice actor. That's why we're looking into some of the main tips for those looking to become a voice actor.
1. Become a Smooth Reader
Your ability to read in a smooth, effortless manner is key to becoming a successful voice actor for movie trailers and other roles.
You need to not only ready quickly, but synthesize direction and attach meaning to words.
Devoting too much of your time to figuring out what a word may mean will affect the inflection of your voice, which could subsequently ruin your voice acting technique.
2. Practice Your Voices
As you can imagine, having a great voice is key to becoming a successful voice actor, whether you're a voice actor for movie trailers or specializing in documentary voice overs.
The more voices that you can successfully pull off, the more roles you'll be eligible for. Practice different accents and inflections.
Think about how different conditions can affect our voices. For example, how does someone sound when they're sick compared to when they've been running around for too long?
A voice actor may have to produce so many different types of voices, and really paint a picture with their voices. The more that you can offer, the more hirable you'll be.
You can work with a voice over coach or trainer to better hone your skills.
3. Seek Pro Bono Jobs
While it may seem counterintuitive to offer your services for free, this is a great way of building up your resume as a voice actor.
This is especially beneficial if you'd like to become a voice actor for movie trailers because a lot of pro bono work involves student films.
You can narrate a movie trailer for a student film, or perhaps offer animation voice overs for a short animated film.
The reason why you need to do this is because it will help you.
4. Build a Demo Reel
To get an audition for a role, you'll need to provide a demo reel. A demo reel will include cuts of your different voice acting jobs, which is why pro bono work is so important.
Essentially, a demo reel is like a means of getting your foot in the door for paid work down the road.
Becoming a voice over actress or actor can be incredibly challenging, just as becoming an actress or actor in general is challenging.
But there are a lot of creative benefits to these types of jobs.
The more that you dedicate yourself to building a diverse portfolio, the more likely you will be to break into the industry and get the kind of work that you want.