There are a whole bunch of different ways people can get into the voiceover industry and often no two stories are the same. Some start as actors and fall into voiceover naturally. Others aspire to be voiceover artists from a young age. Many find themselves in radio and those transferable skills bridge a gap to venture over into the world of voice acting. Whatever the avenue is, the old Hollywood phrase lights, camera, action has not stood the test of time in the voiceover industry. Let us explore a little bit further about the modern-day voice actor and what it looks like to work in today’s industry.
A Voice Acting Background
It might be hard to imagine now, but the early days of TV did not have voice actors, and instead silent films were all the craze. As voiceover became easier to produce, air, and cast those wonderful early-day visuals soon found a best friend in its audio counterpart. Back then the importance of a voice actor was iconic and critical to the role. For example, many recognize Mel Blac as one of the founding fathers of what animation had to offer. So what changed? Simply put, the industry did. No longer is the work few and far between and no longer is it available to a small niche of people. Work is available in abundance across multiple channels. Now, that is not to say all of these channels are good, that is a matter of conscience. But, nonetheless, the work is there and you just have to measure up the type of job it is along with the fee and how long it is going to be airing for.
Todays Voice Actor
So can anyone be a voice actor? If there is an abundance of work out there so you could assume the answer is yes, but truthfully – the answer is no. The abundance of work is massively counterbalanced with an over-saturated industry. Only those voice actors who are talented, business savvy, and have strong foundations can really make a break in this industry. That does not mean new talent can not enter and it does not mean people can’t break in. Of course, people can break in and of course, the industry needs new talent. Not only does new talent bring a new flavor, but it also stops the industry from dying entirely. But, those who break in will be talented, business savvy, and well-founded because everyone wants to work with someone that they know, like, and trust. It instills connection from day one.
Focused Voice Acting
So where did it all go wrong for new talent and existing talent alike? It simply comes down to mindset. Many amazingly talented voice actors allow themselves to be distracted by the waves of life sweeping them away from the end goal. As for me, I meditate on a daily basis and as a result of that, I have discovered a newfound form of focus. Being focused is critical to breaking through in this industry. Focus allows you to keep an eye on new and emerging trends whilst ensuring your material is sharp and concise. Better yet, eliminating distractions means your time is focused on your branding, marketing, and overall well-being. What good is being the most talented voice actor in the world if no one hears you? The truth of the matter is a voice actor is their own PR person, their own accountant, their own motivator, and their own director. Finding the work, auditioning daily, and booking the job can be a normal part of any voice actor’s life if they stay focused and avoid distraction.
Todays Voice Actor – Lights, Camera, Distractions? by Kate Marcin
