Santa Clarita Magazine readers continue to send in great questions about the voice-acting business. This is the fourth part of my answer regarding voice-over demos:
Q: I’ve voiced a number of commercials, and think I’m ready to make a demo. But do I really need to? Any suggestions as to how to go about it? – Roberta K., Santa Clarita, CA
A: There are many things to consider and remember before plunging into the project that will be your audio calling card, help you find an agent, introduce you to casting directors and producers, and help get you work—providing you have achieved proficiency in voice acting. Here are a few more to ensure a successful outcome:
Prepare – Pre-production is key. Have your spot excerpts/scripts rehearsed and timed out. Unless music is being cast for you, have an idea of what music you’d like behind specific pieces, and have a list of SFX you’d like to try. Make sure you get a good night’s rest, have something to eat (avoid dairy, carbonated drinks, spicy, greasy, fried or salty foods, liquor and cigarettes) about two hours before the session, and bring plenty of water. It’ll be one of the most exhausting sessions you’ll ever experience!
If you can afford it, get an experienced V-O demo director/producer to help you. It’s very difficult to be objective about something as subjective as the sound of your own voice, or the believability of your own performance.
Sequence – Sequencing is crucial. If segments are similar, break them up with ones that are different (e.g., voice alone, voice with music, voice with SFX, dialogue, etc.). They should include reads that are up-tempo/retail, sexy or romantic, serious, straight, real character, compassionate, anything humorous, etc.
I hope this information helps. I’ll have more tips next month. Good luck!
Marc Cashman creates and produces copy and music advertising for radio and television. Winner of over 150 advertising awards, he also instructs voice acting of all levels through his classes, The Cashman Cache of Voice-Acting Techniques in Los Angeles, California. He can be contacted at cashcomm@earthlink.net or his website, www.cashmancommercials.com.