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- Provide voice tracks for ads, video, film, tv, or audiobooks
- Most voice over artists work as freelancers and many combine this with other acting work
- You'll need a distinctive and clear voice, acting skills, and the ability to manage your time effectively
As a voice over artist you'll provide the voice track for advertisements, tv programmes, films, video, or audiobooks. You'll use your voice to read or act a script, keeping to time and following the client's brief in terms of pace and tone.
DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES
- Promote yourself
- Read scripts to prepare
- Record in a studio (or sometimes recording at home in your own studio)
- Liaise with your agents or clients
- You'll need to look after your voice and will only be able to work when it is in good condition
DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT
Most voice over artists work as freelancers and many will be registered with agencies who seek work on their behalf, manage client relationships, and take a percentage of the fee for doing this.
You'll normally be paid for a particular amount of time spent in a studio, and you may also be paid additional broadcast fees if your work is used on TV or is shared online.
You'll need
There are no set routes to becoming a voice actor, but you'll need the same skills as an actor for this kind of work - like controlling your breathing, speaking clearly, and using your voice to create character and tone - so getting involved in or studying drama or acting is a good way to get started.
Alternatively you can build up your own showreel of your voice acting by recording yourself reading books or scripts. Organisations like theshowreel.com offer courses to help you build your skills and will help you create a showreel. If you can create an excellent showreel you may be able to register with a voice acting agency who provide voice artists for a wide range of jobs from commercials to audiobooks.
Many voice artists have agents who act as a shop window for their services and negotiate rates, but charge a percentage of their earnings as a fee.
CAREER PROSPECTS
Some voice over artists focus on this kind of work only, while others combine it with other forms of acting or other jobs.