Pay Attention to All the Details
The first step when getting an email in the audition process is to thoroughly go over all the details and directions in the email. A common mistake made is that you are so excited about the audition and the details in the email are skipped over. The directions make give you the age, attitude, accent, backstory of the character. All of those details will be what makes your read more successful. They are giving you the information so that you can create a better voice-over for the client.
Research
If you do not know the company that you are reading for, Google it. If you are reading about a product, check it out. The more you understand the brand and the products or services, the better the audition will go. Get as much information as you can. The brand will see that you did your homework. Being more prepared is always best.
Storyboards or Image Cues
Be sure to examine these images or visual cues. Don't just blow them off! They can give you an insight as to what is being seen at any given moment during a video, TV show, movie, etc. I know they may add a lot of extra length to reading a script. And sometimes make it difficult to even read the copy but it really helps orient you to the action within the script. Helping you feel more involved in the production as you read.
Rehearse
Once you have all the details, you’ve done your research, it is time to rehearse the script. What makes a voice over actor book a job is that they put in the time to rehearse and not just read it cold. You can tell the difference between someone who has rehearsed and someone that has just shown up and not done the work. Don't be afraid to put a little of your own personality into it. That could be what interests the client most and can set you apart from the other auditioning talent.
One Take or Multiple Takes
Once you have gone through rehearsal, it is time to lay it
down. Many times, I have found that I
have an idea for a second take that is different from the first one and shows a
different style. However, if you do not
have a second take, don’t worry.
The key is to make sure the directions don’t say one take
only. If they say that, then one take it is and give it your best one. Sometimes, it will say two takes or nothing
at all then if you have an alternative idea, then go for it. When you slate (if allowed) say "two takes" as part of your slate.
Audio Quality
The audio quality must be excellent. No matter what equipment you are using, be
sure that the audio quality is optimal.
Bad audio quality sends the message that you don’t have the equipment or
knowledge to turn in a solid voiceover for the project.
The other important part of the audio is that now in the
past year, with more remote work brands, casting directors, and agencies,
expect to get quality work.
Forget About It
Once you are done with the audition, it is time to forget
about it! It is better to move forward
and look for the next opportunity while you are waiting. Sitting around waiting for an answer will
only drive you crazy and means you are waiting for one possible job. Keep moving forward and you will get multiple
job bookings. Jobs get thrown to various talent all the time for reasons unbeknownst to us. Sometimes even for the lamest of reasons.
Good luck and remember preparation and choosing
opportunities that showcase your talents and style will make you a successful
voice over actor. Don't be afraid to "stretch" when deciding which auditions to accept; just be certain to work within your extended wheelhouse. ( your root voice)
