Is Voice-Over Right for You?
Why do you want to be a voice actor? Let me know in the comments below
How to Get Into Voice Acting – Step 1
by Jason McCoy
Updated August 2022
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Voice-Over Success
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Hi Jason- I have found voice over work to be a lot of fun! I love acting and crafting a message to be exactly what the director wants. Getting direct and immediate feedback in the booth is the style I like the best. It accesses the creative side of my brain and, as I said, is a blast!
BTW, in the above video there is a typo: You use Traning instead of Training.
I’d be my own boss and therefore, never required to answer to managers, supervisors, etc. Having the flexibility, and the freedom of working whenever I wanted to. Earning a steady income. Gaining technical knowledge. Getting hired by companies on a consistent basis.
Hey Eric – All great reasons to get started in VO! Hope the videos help you.
I am a commercial actor and a retired teacher/administrator with a lifelong personal and professional interest in reading. I have been complimented on my voice and have finished voice-over classes. Additionally, I possess the time and dedication required to develop my career as a voice-over actor.
Renée – sounds like you’ve got an excellent background for a voice-over career!
I’m excited to get started. I’ll admit that I do not take rejection exceptionally well, but I’m prepared for it. I’ve been told I have a great voice. I was involved in theater for years and my favorite part was the table read. I have a business degree with marketing experience. Also, I have a sister who is a brilliant video and sound byte editor. Now, to the equipment and coaching. Thank you for all your resources!
Hi Jennifer! Sounds like you’ve got the perfect background and connections to get started! I’m excited for you!
I have already completed an 8-week course with a Rachel Alena, in which we read scripts. I got into Voice Over due to recommendations from my previous boss and others that said I have the voice for it.
I hope the videos help you Edward!
Hello, I have been learning all about vo for the past year. I wanted to find something I can do from home. I needed a way to make extra income. Vo also has a creative side I enjoy. I have my set up. I’m at the stage of marketing.
Hello Jayson, I really really thank you for sharing your knowledge. I am very new in this I felt lost. Your podcast it is so helpful and you have a great voice by the way 🤗
Well I am totally interested in VO because I think it is a nice job, very fun and very very interesting all the job that is behind. Once again thanks for sharing your experiences. Blessings 🙏
Thanks Veronica! Keep me posted on your progress!
Hi Jason, I am an avid reader and hobby vocalist. I love both. I actually love the sound of my own voice and find myself reading and aloud often, I’ve always read to my children. I’ve worked in sales most of my career and have been told I have great tone and a very soothing voice. Both my kids are off to college now and I have run a few at home businesses over the years so the idea of having an in home studio and using my voice excites me. I am a real people person, so I truly want to establish happy clients that keep coming back.
Sounds like you’ve got a great background for VO!
When my kids were young I loved reading books to them and going to the local schools/kindergartens and reading stories to the kids. Now and then I’d see volunteer jobs for narrating books for the blind at my local library, which I thought would be a wonderful and fulfilling job to do but I just didn’t have the time then to do it. Fast forward 10-15yrs, I’ve moved from Australia to USA and I always get told by people that they could listen to me talk all day with my accent. Hmmm…. Maybe there’s something in this. So now the kids are nearly all out of home, I’ve the time and I’m ready to start on this journey.
Hi Jason!
I’m looking to get into voice acting as part of an overall plan to generate sustainable income as a performing artist. I’m currently in pre-production on a YouTube channel, I’m getting more involved with improv, and the larger goal is to get out to L.A. to be closer to more opportunities for networking. My formal vocal training is in classical music, but I think that familiarity with my instrument and my experience with more conventional theater and public speaking have given me skills that will translate nicely into voice-over.
I wanted to become a voice actor because in all honesty, I enjoy a more unique section of voice acting talent. Comedy. I love making my friends laugh. It’s so much fun. So making silly voices or mimicing existing ones always was a fun way to express myself in a way that makes others notice me in a way that’s different from being talked over all the time. I can be heard and build confidence and learn new things as I go. I originally learnt of my desire to voice act from going to anime cons and meeting voice actors in person. So many of them were so selfless and some not so much but. While actors amuse me, I think it’s truly a talent to take something that’s not real past the extent of an idea and helping it come to life. Maybe dragons don’t exist, but the funny oddity of remembering Paarthurnax was Mario’s voice actor is an example of something quite magical. To help something imagined come to life is but magic in itself and if me being silly and having fun is what someone came home to and watched a show one day that I took part in, that’d fill me with so much joy to think about. If for whatever reason my role ends up being part of people being sad, that wouldn’t bother me because it’d be appreciation of the plot and love of relatability that can always be seen as another way of healing people. And that is just the crazy thing about it all. Why leave one piece of you in history’s records when you can etch yourself into the world in a way that people who don’t even know you will just adore you? Adore you for doing the thing you already loved to do. What could be better than that?
I want to be a voice actor because of my love for animation cartoons, anime, and games. I got interested in voice acting because of YouTube I saw lots of great projects there like Cliffside on Liam Vickers Animation channel. I love all their voices.
I wanted to start voice acting because of my hobbies. I love geeky stuff like video games, anime, etc. and there were some VA’s that really brought a character to life and it inspired me to start. I had a few people ask me to do some voice over work at college and currently work as a Pastor/guest speaker; so public speaking and clarity in my voice has become a strong-suit.
I want to be a voice actor because it fulfills two of my bucket-list goals:
1. Getting a career in the entertainment business, which allows me to use my creative side
2. Becoming a celebrity entertainer, and entertain people with my creative work.
Another reason why I want to get into voice acting is because I already have some level of experience related to the field. I am currently in community college about to finish my third semester in Radio, Television and Film. I have been editing and directing my own student films for nearly 7 years. In terms of film, I find the editing process the most fun. I have the most experience when it comes to editing footage and audio.
In terms of my voice, I am not afraid to project my voice and try something new with it. I don’t have proper training, but I am able to do a variety of character voices. With more training, I can be better with my inflection and my other character voices.
I want to be a voice actor because I have always been interested in it. I’m a part-time vocalist, so I love working with my voice. I’d also like to educate people with my voice and medical knowledge (I’m an RN, by profession). The biggest reasons are the freedom and flexibility voice acting provides, the fun, and the challenge of reading and recording different scripts. I also want to be able to work from home or anywhere I go. I think it’s an incredible job that I would truly enjoy, and would love to make a living doing it. Thanks for this excellent guide and all your help, Jason!
Hi Jennifer, With your medical knowledge, medical elearning could be perfect for you. I wish you the best!
I feel I want to do VO and it’s something I love from my heart.. I love to read aloud and singing is my passion..
That’s great! I wish you the best with it!
Thanks so much for providing the guide and videos, Jason. Over the years I have had opportunity to speak publicly, read Scripture and do announcement skits in church, sing and act in a number of venues. I had considered voice over a long time back, but didn’t have the confidence then. Recently, I was encouraged to consider voice over as I really enjoy reading and sharing announcements. Moreover, I did cultivate a number of voices representing different creatures, people, etc., and had a blast. This is definitely an intriguing line of work – sounds VERY interesting. Thanks again!!
Thank you Peter! I wish you the best as you get started!
I have always wanted to be a voice actor because I like to talk and I feel like when I tell someone something they are very attentive and interested in what I have to say. I think that would translate well to VO. I want to start my own business and I can’t think of a better way to do it than to be a voice actor.
I have a couple of reasons why I am interested in voice acting. I love the work flexibility and the creativity of the field. Working from anywhere in the world is a plus because one of my dreams is to become a traveling nomad. Reading is a huge hobby of mine so getting into audiobook narration would be a dream. I am also an animation fan and would love to learn how to voice act characters. However , voicing a commercial for a product at work was probably the moment I realized I could do this and enjoy it. I have so much to learn but I’m excited for the journey.
Hi Desiree, It sounds like you have many interests that intersect with the world of VO. I’m excited for your journey to begin!
I have been on broadcasting since the mis 70s. I really enjoyed the creative side in production. Now, i am semi retired and have all the time i want, tp delve into VO on a full time basis…but I really want to do it all the right way. I want the proper coaching/Mentoring, proper acoustically treated room and recording environment, the proper equipment, IE, computer, pre-amp, microphone, audio interface, reference monitors, stands, mic stands, pop filter, mixing board. I want to learn to purchase and use gear to work form home and be directed by others from their studios, and most importantly, the business of Voice-over…becoming an LLC, proper accounting, marketing, having a great website and when my coach/mentor says it’s time, proper demos.
Please help.
I really do like your set-up and would love to mimic.
I have so many question. I am excited, positive and willing to hang on to my thick skin, accept rejection and give it all I have.
Hi Devin, It sounds like you’re very willing to learn. That’s awesome! I hope the free guides here on Voice Acting 101 help you get started. Feel free to reach out to me if you have questions.
I am pc based. I see that you upgraded your audio interface to uad apollo X. I am looking at the apollo X twin duo usb. How do they compare?
They are identical as far as I know. It’s a high-end audio interface and the software is complicated. If you want a simpler audio interface, I’d go with Focusrite. They have great starter interfaces with a more plug n play experience.
I became interested after hiring vo actors for my meditation videos. Afer sometime I realized they increased their rates. I enjoy public speaking and can converse in seven languages including Italian. I am committed to make it a success with voice over – narration, and podcasting.
Wow! Knowing 7 languages is a huge advantage in voice-over!
I became interested when I found a video on youtube about a year ago. Then I lost my job and decided to start a business and started looking further into voice acting. I am always making up characters, I love to talk, and have experience running my own business. This kind of work gives me the freedom that I am looking for.
I have a southern drawl, as I am from Mississippi. Everyone seems to love my accent except for me. I was asked for voice-over samples for a potential job and now he’s asking for my finish rate. I don’t even know what that means! LOL! I’m reading an article, trying to wrap my head around it. I was thinking if it pays well and I like the work, I could become more friendly toward my voice, meaning perhaps I’d feel less like a country bumkin and more like a southern belle, and at least learn to respect my own voice. LOL! I have always read fun books and read to my daughter as she grew up, doing all the voices and we laughed hysterically.
Btw, my website has nothing to do with voice acting. The website is actually still up in the air. I initially started it due to writing a book, because all the agents I queried said I needed more of a following.
Welcome Carol! Here’s a guide on rates: https://voiceacting101.com/voice-over-rates/ I hope you do learn to love your voice and accent. I wish you the best!
Always dreamed doing voice overs for cartoons. Been told I have a pleasant radio like voice. Looking for a creative outlet.
Looking forward to learning a bit about this avenue. I’ve contemplated it many times. As a full time English and Drama teacher, I use my voice in all sorts of ways, and I’d like to explore other possibilities. Thanks for this:-)
Thank you for taking time out to lay out all this foundational steps to help newbies
God bless you.
I want to start out in becoming a voice actor because I believe I have the gift and I have tried recording some audio by myself and I was told by friends that I have a wonderful voice to do this.
Happy to hear it’s helping you Dickson!
I always enjoyed reading characters in different voices back in my reading lessons in school , recently I left my 9 to 5 job because I felt that it did not fulfill my passion , so in attempt to rediscover my passion , I’m try voice over in hope to become great at it with hard work
A long, long, long time ago I took some drama classes because I had loved acting at school. I took a LAMDA exam in ‘speaking of verse and prose’ , which I passed with distinction, but didn’t pursue acting. Instead I went on to study voice production (amongst other things).
I’m now retired (from teaching), with time on my hands and a limited income, and I came across some information about voice overs. My old interest has been awakened and I’m wondering if it would be possible for me to have a new career.
It’s great to meet you Ellen and hear about your past experience. I hope the guides, videos and podcasts are helpful for you.
thank you!
I got interested in the skills of voice acting because I started to stream in 2nd language English. After fallen down to mental health issues caused by a long-term addiction and ASD etc, I became mentally handicapped and am challenging the ways to face my downside and am trying the things I can. To stream, I have to learn to speak better, hence.
I find my overall presentation, how I speak, and how I generate my voice, is pretty horrible, including pronuncing the words as I mumble or am constantly nervous. I have never been a confident person socially as far as the way I see myself. and I used a lot of “like……..” while I am speaking and I want to fix it. As an ASD, the region where I process the information is under-developed, so I am quite slow hence, a speedy conversation has never been my thing, generating an appropriate reply. and also, I have to try hard to feel the emotions, or to express it.
so my reason for taking this course is to learn to speak better, learn the technical side of audio equipment, learn to “act” and market myself.
I am doing this to re-do myself so I can grow out of it.
I wish you the best as you get started!
I always loved reading to my little girl and make different voices for different characters. I also love watching films with her and have always wondered how fun would it be to voice a cartoon character and bring the joy to others the way it has with her. I have grown up singing and doing plays with my cousins and think this would be the perfect time to follow this dream I’ve had in the back of my mind.
Hi Eliee! I wish you the best as you follow your dream!
I have been told several times I have a beautiful voice. I love reading story books too to my kid. I know I love this and this is a talent I should use.
i have been told that i sound like a voice over actor alot when i speak or fool around with jokes or just with my voice
Great Daniel! I wish you the best as you get started!
I loved reading to my kids when they were younger. I now have grandkids and I look forward to reading to them, also. I’ve also been told that I have a nice reading voice and since my dad was a DJ long time ago, I figured it might be in the genes (I’m kidding; I know this will take a lot of work). I also do a lot of reading for my church.
Getting enjoyment from reading is definitely helpful. Especially for long-form projects (like audiobooks).
Love reading to my kids & trying different accents & now they’re too old! The challenge & reward of being my own boss. Creativity!
In truth my passion for voice acting comes from a younge age. The power that a person’s voice alone could have on a character astounded me. As a kid I saw that power and used it for myself. I didnt like myself, so I would become someone else. Whether that be for entertaining others, or for my own self comedy. But as I’ve grown ive embraced my voices as my own and I want to use them to be like my idols growing up and possible help other kids find there voices like my idols did for me.
Whew, put me down for someone who fell in love with the idea of vo from reading to my kids, and being told I have a nice voice. Really appreciate how Jason gets down to the truth that it’s the script interpretation and business / technical side of things that really count for success.
Thanks David. I also love reading fun children’s books to my kids. Now it’s fun to hear them read to me.
I have always enjoyed singing, from stage musicals to community theater, karaoke as well as working at an AM News Talk Radio Station – which is where, I believe, my eyes were opened to what I could do with my voice. Thanks to my mentor, Jan, I experienced what wearing many hats at time felt like, i did sales, writing commercials, voicing them and eventually doing my own news casts. As I worked retail, I was the one who created the PA’s at places like Marshall’s and Grocery Outlet, just to name a few. I have had a fire simmering under my backside for quite a long time and it is time I take those comments like “can I record your voice so I can fall asleep”, or requests to sing, like a personal juke box, and make something of that ability to touch people without physically touching them. That is a very exciting feeling. I want to see what I can do, plus I am not getting any younger.
Sounds like you’ve got a great background for voice-over! I wish you the best!
I have a background in music and voice specifically, and I lead singing and read Scripture for my church. I have been told that I sound like a professional reader. I also understand the drive of self-employed people to make a business successful by learning all I can and setting myself apart from the competition.
I wish you the best with getting started Eric!
I’m in. Just looking for more tips to get more consistent work
Hi PJ, check out this post for help with that https://voiceacting101.com/voice-over-work
Hello. I am looking for something that provides some extra income and allows flexibility. I currently work in healthcare and want to do something more creative for a side gig to start and maybe change careers if all goes well.
I wish you the best as you get started Kathryn!
Hi Jason. I was so happy to find your channel. The info you provide is just the kick-start I needed to venture into a new career path. I’ve been in sales for many years, and I believe a good salesman is also a good communicator. He or she also needs to be a great actor, since the goal is to build excitement about the product. I’m hoping I can use my salesman skills to help make me a terrific voice actor. Thanks!
Hi Michael! Your communication background is going to help a lot in voice acting and also in serving your VO customers well!
Thankyou for this package. I really look forward to undergo the whole training.
Great advice! I have solid, advanced training and experience as an actor, I live in LA and have been in the film industry most of my life. I also produce music and have a recording studio in my house. I know a few people in this industry and and I know this is a direction I want to go! Excited!
I have done professional stage acting before I started a full time career in health care. I now want to venture into voice acting both to develop the skills and as a possible source of income in future.
Hi Jason. You might want to correct the typo on the 3rd fly-in at the 32 second mark.
Thanks Paul. I’ll look into that.
Jason, as with all of the material I receive, watch, or listen to from you it is a pleasure and much appreciated. As far as I can see you don’t do any coaching, is this assumption correct? Beyond that what tips can you give for finding a VO coach that is the right “fit”?
Thanks Eric! The closest thing to coaching is the Improvement Plan: https://voiceacting101.com/get-voice-over-evaluation/
I’ve always wanted to be an actress. But with my family obligations I could never leave home or travel to audition for jobs.
Voice acting seems to be a way to pursue my dream while still keeping my family as my first priority.
Hi Jackie! Yes, you’d be able to work from home & act. Sounds like a perfect match for you.
The flexibility to work wherever is really attractive, much easier on the body than beating it up in labor jobs,be an artist and get paid for it, promotes ongoing learning, add value to others, and largely VO seems to always be in demmand
Looking at a career change and voice over acting appeals to my creative side.
I am looking for a career change. I have always read to my kids and I enjoy reading books. I have a business focused mind and would love to succeed at the art of voice overs.
I wish you success Carol!
Jason,
Great 1st Question….. Our journey starts with honesty, a vision , a purpose and
a plan of action. Those at Voices.com gave you a Sparkling Review!
In the 80’s/90’s I owned a retail Seafood Market. Planning a marketing strategy – thought radio and newspaper would be perfect. After 6 months of Radio Reps providing commercials , I felt that Heart and Soul (and laughter) needed to be
shared with the audience. From that point forward , I scripted and recorded my weekly ads (A Fresh message for a Fresh Product). Through the next 11 years we earned Top Honors as the Seafood Market of Choice in our area.
Moving on , accepted a Regional Sales Managers’ position, of the many facets –
providing Seminars for Sales Staff.
I appreciate and understand the Value of Voice for a Client AND Their Customer.
Jason, I so look forward to your Coaching and Guidance.
Nice video. I have always been told what a good speaking voice I have and have spent my adult career working using my voice to help instruct, educate, and provide general information to individuals over the phone. Looking to expand my voice skills and career options in this phase of my life to have more control and flexibility.
Very good detailed video. I am retired and bored plus can use a cash infusion to prop up my Social Security. I am a self starter and continual learner. I believe my deep voice would be a good fit for eLearning and audio book narrations. I like the freelance entrepreneurial life style as well.
I wish to explore and yes capitalize on my talent; bit first I need to be taught and trained so as to become established and knowledgable. Once developed, I’ll be able to assist others who wish to do the same.
I am headed to my silver years. I am looking for a work from home lucrative business that is a far reaching business, low start up cost, and I can perform far into my golden years. Retirement looks brighter with Voice Over in my portfolio!
Hello Jason
Your tips were very helpful and will be applied. I have always been around music and media or broadcast. Plenty of people have complimented me on my voice and I have the prior experiences and desire to grow.
Hi Jason
Thanks for the input.
I was always the one at the school I taught at that was called upon to do commercials, sports day announcing and commentary for some of the main school sport events. So now recently when I discovered VO it drew me in enough to decide to give it a try and see where it takes me.
I want to become a voice over actor because I love to work from home.
I’m 57 and for the last 24 years I have worked in the insurance sales and marketing. Prior to that I started a commercial production business where i wrote and produced radio commercials an jingles. I have a broadcasting background but decided to get into insurance so that I could make some “real money.” I want to start doing what I love again.
Congrats on getting back to doing what you love!
I’m a singer, but I have played around with some other voices for fun . Always heard of voice over and thought it’d be an awesome job.
So now is my time to try it out. I appreciate you taking the time to offer your great advice to help others out in this field. Thank you
Hope it helps you Deanna!
Have been interested in it since I was a teenager. Never really new how to get into it! Appreciate your time and willingness to offer your advice. Just joined Voices.com
Happy to help Richard!
I have always been told I have a soothing voice that calms people. Asked why I do not use my voice as a career. I have always thought of doing voice over work and think now would be a good time to start.
I have done some acting and various voices. I began to pursue this years ago but became sidetracked. This seems like the right time.
Awesome Paul! I hope the guides help you!
I’ve been told I have a nice voice. I was also teased a bit in grade school because I “talked proper.”? I thank my parents for both.
I’ll be retiring soon and always wanted to try it out. I should have plenty of of time to devote to it in about a year or two.
Congrats on the upcoming retirement Mike! I hope the steps help you!
Thank you Jason for your advices. I am very keen and raring to go!
Happy to help!
Thanks Jason for these videos and your help in getting started. I’ve always been told “You have a voice for radio”. I’ve been using my voice as a salesperson most of my life, now it’s the time to take the next step!
You’re very welcome Keith! I wish you the best as you take the next step!
It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I really enjoy making funny voices or just messing around with people in different voices:
I want to be voice actor because I like to tal more and I like to be famous by my voice.
I think I can do it.
I started off months ago in my church. I was voicing the audio announcements. Since then I’d gotten quite a number of voice acting jobs. I’m naturally creative with words and sounds, so the encouragement from people that hear my voice overs wants me to do this.
Congrats on your success!
Being a voice actor will allow me to put my talents to work and earn an income while doing it.
I’ve always dabbled in physical acting, but never pursued it as a career. I’ve grown up comfortable being a presenter and I’ve been told I have a voice for radio. I’m currently in phone sales and have heard my call recordings and agree that I can be successful with it, with the right training.
Hey Scott – All great experience for VO.
I’m an actor. I had the fun and privilege of booking my first movie this past summer of 2019. And I’m a firm believer that your voice is your identity and your greatest tool for expressing your spirit and imagination. And I’m eager to take the next steps in the journey.
A whole hearted yes to all 5 questions!
Why? I have been working with kids for 20 years and have always been asked to either act or do the voice overs we have produced.
I won’t tell you what effect my voice has on grown men!
i have always loved anime and i have been able to do voices like scooby doo and stitch, i can make my voice go deep and love reading
At this point in my life, I would like an opportunity to unleash my creative side, repressed due to, as John Lennon said, “Life is what happens when you’re making other plans.”. I have several criteria for what I desire. It must be fun! It must be freelance, so I can remain the master of my own time. It must be recompensable to make up both the initial investment in the business and my flagged income until I decide to collect social security. It must give me the opportunity to keep on learning different things and, very importantly, it must allow me to express my creative side. For many years I thought Voice Overs would be fun. I now have motive, time, opportunity and limited resources to start this endeavor.
It seems to be fun and rewarding at the same time, it can become a great side work to make money.
I love it, I can’t wait to watch more videos from you!
Thanks Yoly!
I have experience and an excellent voice, a great neutral accent in Spanish. I just need to learn how to make money in the USA as a VO in Spanish.
As long as I can remember I have been watching Anime and been playing Video Games and I would love to be a part of them and voice characters, my love for it all started with Sean Schemmel as Goku in Dragon Ball Z and has only grown and would love to be able to take this on!
On a project for my mother-in-law’s cookbook, I was the voice for the ten-second commercial. I was proud of it. I also did a couple of spots in college for my copywriting course. Loved it. I want to be able to work from home as a side hustle too.
Ever since I was a child, I’ve loved commercials and animation. Not the actors in the commercials, but the people ‘talking over’ the commercials; and the announcers at the end of commercials. Of particular interest to me are sci-fi computer voices and animation (I’m right here, Disney *smile*). Adding fuel to these fires, throughout my life I’ve been asked to speak or read aloud or make the announcements at work or church, or wherever. And the rest, as they say, is history. My ear is constantly drawn to interesting voices. I had no idea that there was money to be made in being a VO talent. I’ve done a few spots here and there over the years, but have never really ‘broken in’ to getting consistent work as a VO talent. I want to be a working voice actor/talent. I’m ready to break in.
I’ve enjoyed my time working as a professional princess and finding out how to change my voice to fit theirs! I’m the resident accent queen of the company, so I play characters like Merida, Rosetta and Snow White. They’re lots of fun. I’ve had many people tell me I should try VA work, but didn’t feel like I had the knowledge. I am so excited to try this!!
OMG, I would like to play characters like you do Lauren, of course in Spanish. Actually, I am a radio host. I have experience recording poems, spots, documentaries, interviews, radio and TV commercials. Where should I go to begin?
Best wishes to you Lauren.
I’ve always been funny and doing characters. I would do voice over at the department store I worked for. I took a class in Vegas at a brick n mortar place, and the owner is the Target voice at the self checkout who says, “don’t forget your receipt!” or at least it REALLY sounds like her. I learned a lot from her, but then I moved back to CA…I’m interested in everything, broadcasting, commercials, etc I am worried about the technology part of it.
I’d like to own my own business. With the changes in our world right now I would like the flexibility to work from home. And I’d like to use my creative side.
I’m interested in voice acting because I’ve been told I have a distinctive voice, I’m drawn to the arts and I need a side hustle I can do from home. I’m nervous, excite and s little overwhelmed. 🙂
Welcome Lynn! Hope the guides and videos help you.
I honestly got inspired in becoming a voice actor thanks to flash animation that were posted ion early YouTube. Channels like OneyNG, psychicpebbles, RicePirate etc. were a big part of my childhood. I’ve always looked up to those creator for their hard work and quality videos that they put out, having a constant determination that would lead them to where tehy are right now. RicePirate aka Mick Lauer working on the dubbed version of the anime JoJo’s bizarre adventure, psychicpebbles aka Zach Hadel getting a recent pilot on adult swim called Smiling Friends and OneyNG aka Chris O’Neil working on his own video game called Bowlbo. I have procrastinated my entire life on this, but I feel like I recently had an epiphany that made me realize that I can study and work on voice acting from scratch if I just dedicate to this every day from now on.
I’ve loved every aspect of film/acting since I was a kid. Growing up being a huge fan of video games and animated movies, I didn’t even really realize I was watching Voice actors! I can remember around the age 5-6, memorizing every word to the 1999 Sonic The Hedgehog movie and just either voice acting along with the lines or talking back to the characters and getting lost in this different world because at that age, these characters were real to me. Same thing with video games, some of these characters voices are absolute staples in my childhood. Master Chief from Halo, Sonic, Fox from Starfox, Mario. Anime series like Naruto, full metal alchemist and Attack on Titan.
Man I could go on forever. Im rambling. But to me, voice acting is an escape into a different world, that you also get to create for the listeners. Magic I wanna be apart of.
Hi Jason and everyone kind enough to leave a comment.
Many have said I have a good voice and that I should do voice over work.
So ths is where I start my journey…….
Jason, Thanks for putting so much effort into teaching us how to do so.
Welcome Andreas! I hope you find the videos and guides helpful!
I work at a radio station but I most tines don’t do jingles for shows and other show promos but when I do, I just love it and I have told several times that I do have the voice for it. I like thy I can be creative with it, convenience of work characteristics and I want to be more professional about it.
I love reading books and watching anime.Also throughout the day are usually make weird voices or sound effects and it just occurs naturally for me. Plus voice acting sounds like it will be something really interesting
I never had a full reason for a while, but one reason is I love expressing myself with voices, In my everyday life I make all kinds of voices, plus I love putting emotions into the voices.
no my voice is not really good but i can talk in low pitch and high pitch i can modulate my voice and i love to change it so want to become voice actor
Thanks J! I really enjoy reading and interpreting scripts. I currently work as a freelance court interpreter, so I’ve gotten used to setting my own schedule and being my own boss. As much as I love interpreting, voiceover has an equal, if not greater appeal to me.
I have a good voice for voice acting and I’d like to get into voiceovers no matter if it’s commercials, tv, movies or whatever. It sounds like something interesting that I could make a career out of
I know that I have an awesome voice for VOICEOVERS and Radio Presenting. I get to do what I love while earning profit from it.
I love to do voice over in English more than anything even though I am not a native English speaker 🙂
I’ll be retiring from teaching in the next year or so. One of my favorite parts of teaching, when I taught the younger kids, was reading to my students and using different voices to help the characters come to life. It would be fantastic if I could continue to do something along these lines. I also enjoy singing and have quite a bit of vocal training, so I am hoping to put that to use as well.
I have several answers to why I want to become a voice actor. 1. I love giving characters “life” when I tell/read stories or just talk to people in general. 2. I’m a singer and I have an amazing vocal coach who is teaching me so much. 3. I really love entertaining people making them smile/laugh. 4. If I can make a decent living doing this, I will be my daughters hero forever.
I love being an actress it’s my dream specially when talking on the phone,reading some script I want also to learn more in this business
I love being voice actress
I have been an actor for years (so I know rejection and success.) 😉 I have been told by many people I have a voice for voice overs. I have done a few podcasts of children books and the sound engineer confirmed I had talent.
Greetings, I’m a college student majoring in Business with a concentration in marketing and I am hellishly interested in linguistics. I’m minoring in Arabic and have taken classes in voice and diction. My voice is very flexible and I love to talk. In the past I found it fun to make voices but dismissed it. Now I deeply desire to further a career in linguistics and want voice acting to be apart of it. I have no experience and do not know where to start. I’m hoping that with your help I can find grounds to stand on and make this one of my businesses.
Hi Sykil, I hope the videos help you get started!
Hello Jason,
I want to start a career as a voice actor because I am an actor. I had a successful career as an actress on Broadway, film and television. I stopped for 15 years…and now I would like to work again. However, I am now a homeschool mom and want to keep that going. I am SO ready to focus on being creative again. I also look forward to learning much more about the technical and business side of things.
Thanks for these videos!!
Hi Mary! Your Broadway background will be extremely valuable as you move into VO.
I get compliments at work about my voice and just wonder if I am able to take this further and become a voice actor.
I’ve always been very animated and have previous theatre and sound engineering experience. I do character voices and accents daily as part of my natural persona and my wife has pushed me to finally start a career in voice acting. I’ll be building my computer soon and will have my recording equipment set up to work from home. I look forward to viewing the next 4 videos in your series. Thank you!
I want to be a voice actor because emoting and doing voices has always been a natural hobby and defense mechanism for me, being able to use it constructively, especially in the setting if cartoons and animated films (which are my absolute favorite form of entertainment), would mean the world to me.
Hi Jason,
I want to be a voice actor because I love being animated and learning how to speak with different accents or character voices. I have all of my equipment and software to record. I’ve been practicing recording and editing but I’m not sure where to start with how to make demos to attract business.
Hi Jason. I honestly have no experience in voice acting, but I have been told my voice is nice and expressive. I’m interested in at least getting started and seeing if this is right for me. I think it may be. Thank you.
Awesome Lucas. The guides and videos will help you get rolling.
Hi Jason,
I’m a trained singing vocalist with family and personal background in radio announcing. I’ve also done a little instructional audio, and I interpret words and communicate very well. My whole family is blessed with wonderful voices and a couple of us have been batting around the possibilities of VO work as a natural interest. I love using my voice on microphones. I have been in entertainment most of my life (in movie studio publicity for many years) and I am now needing a redirection…working from home and starting part time. I have the tech skills and vocal talent to do it. I need more info on the business and marketing of it, which will be more difficult as I am not great at self-promo. I’m already using Audition for editing church sermons, so I’ll be able to do my own projects. I’d love to somehow eventually incorporate singing projects into this business as well, as a voice-over and musical “vocal services” provider, so I’m very interested in getting started on the voice-over side. Thank you.
Sounds like a great background Joni. Step 5 will help you when it comes to marketing.
as sound is the medium to communicate your view and becoming a sound i can do definely exchange of idea thorhg a good channel voice 123so with the career purpose and socialism it is the best to become a sound actor
Hi Jason! Thanks for the good stuff. I’ve worked for a video production company the last 6 years (editing, writing and producing). Occasionally, I would do our VO work and found that clients started to request me. So a few months ago I turned my closet at home into a recording space and I’ve been getting jobs via a voice acting website. I’m realizing that this is my thing and its what I want to do. And there’s good money in it. So I’m excited to watch the rest of your stuff.
Thanks Steve! Hope you enjoy!
Oops, low _
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Could a 12 year old get into voice acting with a very lot budget
Yes. Low budget is different for everyone but a few hundreds dollars would allow you to get started.
Because for me it‘s fun to voice act
I love to talk, love to explain things in easy way to make someone understand the point easily and he/she can get some benefit of my talk. I wana earn good money to give my family what they deserve. I can speak in English, Hindi and Punjabi. By profession, i was a Medical Transcriptionist for 14 years and working as a Video Editor for a company for around 1 year now. Main reason i like this job is that your voice will pay you and pay you well enough to live a good livish life. Would be pleased to get some help. Can i work as a guest and get work to do ?
If yes then what i will have to do to get work as a guest user as i dont have money to buy membership.
Its a different job and many people say i have a good voice.
I got interested in voice acting because I listen to books all the time. I thought that it would be fun to read children’s books or do characters.
It has been something I have always wanted to do.
its a interesting & challenging field. & I like challenges
I am known to be quite the talker. I am enjoy being creative. People have told me I have a good voice for cartoons as well as corporate. I have an interest and love for the industry and would love to become a part of it.
I’ve always been told I articulate well when reading out loud and as an elementary school teacher I have always enjoyed doing the character voices as I read. The idea of being able to work from so I can spend more time with my family is a major motivation for wanting to try my hand at this. I am open to any and all knowledge and tips you can give me to be successful. Thanks!:)
I was told by my friends who kept telling me that I was good with accents, and I was inspired by Matt Mercer to do voice acting
I’ve always been theatrical in and out of Highschool and throughout my adult life, I just really enjoy acting in any form in a nutshell ?
Becoming a voice actor sounds very appealing to me for all of the benefits you list, and I’ve got a lot of things going for me: I used to read the Harry Potter book series out loud to my family almost every day with character voices, and I have many years’ experience of role-playing and improv acting with my sibling, so I’ve developed the ability to deliver character lines really well.
I’m not intimidated by the need for technical knowledge, either, but there are some requirements for becoming a voice actor that I’m worried will hold me back:
1. I’m worried about having to build my business and market myself to potential clients. I wouldn’t even know where to start…
2. I was able to meet deadlines back while I was in college, but I worry about having to relearn this skill because I struggle with time management now.
3. I love the idea of voice acting fictional characters or audiobooks, but the idea of doing voice-overs for commercials and the like sounds mind-numbingly boring…Is it unrealistic to hope I can pick and choose gigs from the beginning? If the work doesn’t feel rewarding from the get-go, I’m afraid I won’t be able to stick with it.
Any advice is appreciated!
I want to do voice over work because I have a health problem that is not like most I can work but not at a job that I would either have to be on my feet the whole time or sitting at a desk the whole time so my main reason is the flexibility of working from home. I can’t sit or stand for a long period of time and I think voice over would be great for me because if I need to stand I could but if I needed to sit I could do that also. But to start I need something that is not going to take a lot of money because what I get just enough money just does pay my bills. So I am hoping to get this started for pretty much free and build it up has I go. Do you have any suggest how I could start this with no money upfront until I get a few jobs and could get some extra to better my business.
You’ll need some gear to get started – so there is cost. Check eBay for used gear at a lower cost.
It took me some years to use my voice without fear and I fell into the role of entertainer among friends and family. I began to perform as a musician and stand-up comedian as well as dabbling in improv. I have always enjoyed reading aloud, talking, and public speaking, but have lacked the drive to pursue voice acting, however now I’ve pushed away lazy thoughts and fears and now am ready to invest in education, time, and equipment.
I love to do that primarily .
It also gives me liberty to work from home in my convenient hours as my situation is not conducive to go out & work
It seemed interesting to me.Flexible schedule,work from home,great opportunity for lifetime,job satisfaction as I want to do this job etc
I read to my son every night and one night I thought “I like doing this. Could I make a career out of it somehow?” I hope this is my way of reading to the world every night.
I hope the videos help you Kayla!
I want to be a voice actor because I have always been drawn to things theatrical. I enjoyed acting in plays in high school and college, started college as an acting major but switch to accounting for income stability.
I have been told I have a nice speaking voice. I enjoy reading out loud and singing and have took voice lessons for a brief time; all non professionally.
Since retiring, I would like to do something for extra income that is enjoyable and creative using that involves acting but allows for a flexible work schedule and lets me be my own boss.
Sounds like a great reason Kari!
I think this seems like a fun, interesting, and exciting new hobby.
Well, I must say what I saw on your videos intrigued me into it. The creative part and the fact that you can be different things is what attracts me the most!! I do look forward to chatting to you more and to getting some feedback from you. I sent you an email Jason.
Will I need to comment after every video in order to get the next one?
No – you don’t need to comment to get the next video. You should receive the next one in a day.
I want to be a voice actor for many of the reasons you stated in this video. It started out with MANY people commenting on my voice. But then, I just really like voice over. It’s fun and I love the flexibility that comes with it.
As a teacher I have always enjoyed reading stories to children. I would like to try the VO field to narrate stories to children, and wherever my voice fits best.
I’ve been told my whole life that I should use my voice for something. It’s been an ongoing commentary. Perhaps this information can be the determining factor whether or not this could work. I’ve done guided meditation and people and students always ask if I do this professionally.
I always wanted to become a Voice Actor since I was a little child. I believe it was the way that people would act when they heard a commercial for something that they wanted to really hear about. I work as a Dispatcher at my job, and one day I decided to Spice-Up my delivery while dispatching, and my co-workers enjoyed it and said that I had a nice Personality On The Air, and that I should do something with it
I love working in the studio and have recorded songs but am a bit of an introvert and love the idea of performing as a voice actor. I don’t miss the stage.. the mystery of being the voice without a face appeals to me.
I live on Disability because of my Arthritis that I have had all my life, but I use to work, I worked in a Call Center where I talked to Client’s and Customer’s from 6 to 7 hours a day, 35 hours a week. I had a Guy from Such a Voice give me a Voice evaluation and in 5 minutes he told me that my voice was to raspy, I like the idea that I can work from home, I watch a lot of TV & Movie’s, I like to talk, and have been told that I have a very caring & calm voice to listen too. But he told me that with some practice he thinks I could be good with Acting? I didn’t understand that comment.
I’m guessing he meant your voice is good – but even the best voices aren’t right for voice-over if it sounds unnatural. Practice helps you figure out how to sound natural, even though you’re reading.
I want to become a voice actor because I believe in my voice and I love what comes from it. Almost everybody appreciate the type of voice I have and I don’t want the gift to go just like that, I want to sell it, I want it to bring me money which will really help me in making ends meet and for life betterment.
Moreover, I love any media thing and I believe with voice over acting, I will get there someday and my family and including you,my tutor will be proud of me… Chuckles
yes I do. I am a ‘public’ speaker and long-time jazz DJ
As the mother of seven, I’ve read many books aloud. I enjoy listening to audio books myself. Sometimes I hear a narrator and think to myself, “I could do better than that!!” And so, I’m investigating how I can.
Why do I want to be a voice actor? Well, it started when I was a little girl wanting to be an actress growing up. My mom discouraged me from it due to the drug addition rate. I have done a lot of nursing home work and later on, decided i wanted to do something from home since the main nursing home i worked at shut down in 2012 and haven’t had much luck in the working world since. So, i started taking surveys and clicking ads ;/. Surveys aren’t so bad, but it wasn’t enough. So, I took on transcription (just tests). I’m too slow to keep up to try to pass those tests plus I just want to get into it and learn OJT and not be required to type 100 words per minute. I’ve selling my things on Ebay and opening an online store, selling through Amazon and I had no luck. Not a dime let alone a penny. I did start with Mturk and that’s okay. I plan on using my earnings to pay for my equipment. Anyway, I found out I can do voice over from home by Google services and found voices.com so I signed up. I also signed up at edgestudio.com and acx.com. ACX is under Amazon.
ALSO, me working in an office and having recorded the answering machine and people calling and speaking with me have always said that I have a very rich sounding voice. Probably from my singing all my life.
I forgot to add that I also recorded a CD of me singing mostly Broadway show tunes, since that is the kind of musicals I have done, but also other types of songs.
Why do I want to be a voice actor? Well, for the 1st time in my life, I am without work!
I was in the Navy for 4 years; worked in a gas station for 2-3 years; became a bartender in major clubs around Hollywood; had my own business for 18 years and had MANY celebrity customers; and worked in the same office in a church for more than 20 years; but ALSO have been a singer all my life and done many musicals in the L.A. area, and now I sing in clubs around town and also Palm Springs. Did my last musical 3 years ago and my last “concert” 2 years ago.
I am American, but have a British ancestry and love to sort of speak like an Englishman. LOL. And being stationed in Texas for 2 years, sort of picked up some kind of southern drawl ya know?
I love to read, I want to be a paid writer and believe this will help me to not only understand the mechanics of writing but build a readership for the unpaid things that I am getting published on my way to being paid.
I have acting and voice recording experience and thought of doing this, yet didn’t know how, u til now, seeing your videos! I found you on Pinterest, thank you for the insight!
I cannot walk through an airport anywhere in this country where I’m not stopped at least once and someone asked me if they’ve heard me on the radio. I thought I might give this a try, thank you for making this information available, what a great help!
I work from home for a call center, and so many customers ask me if this is a computer or a live person, also I have many customers tell me I should look into doing voice overs. Don’t know where to start so I googled voice over jobs and found you.
The 5 steps will help you.
I have loved animation, video games, and anime for as long as I can remember. I always found myself mimicking the voices of my favorite fictional characters. If I can earn a living just tapping to my imagination and living as the characters, I believe that is my dream job.
I want to be the one behind the voices that brings people joy to here
I’m not a native english speaker, but I think that I’m pretty fluid in english and even stronger speaking it. Although I lack of the required gear, I think I’m able and ready to get started with the basics of voice acting.
I’ve worked on a few voiceover projects and have had a recent company ask me to send a voice sample
Thank you Jason for the inspirational vids. I am 62 years old..with a deeep voice..I can disguise this and bring it back to 6year old girl.but not for too long. I love to do foreign accents. French..welsh..Indian etc.
Is success greater for the younger generation in this business? I hope not. ageism abounds here in the U.k I have experienced this myself, but hard to prove. I am hoping to supplement my income too.
I’ve been told I have a good voice. I love reading out loud and doing character voices.
Where is the second vid
You’ll receive all 5 over the next few days.
I want to run series of shows as podcasts and also hit voice acting jobs. I am a presenter and the media world has always been my dream place.
I’ve worked as a singer and actor but both require travel and I’m not open to living that life anymore. I love that I can have my own business and continue to use my creativity to develop a product that can be educational or entertaining!
I’ve had a passion for voice acting since my days in radio and various commercials I did at the station. I took a different career path but my heart has always been in the industry, I just love the business. I do speak at various functions and events. I believe this is another chance to be where i belong.
I’ve been told more times than I can count that I should do voice work. I frequently speak at my local church, teach classes, and lead meetings; speaking has always been my strong suit. Ever since I was young I found I was able to master voices from Patrick Warburton to Elmo to Smeagle, and accents from Indian to New Zealander. Recently, I’ve been reading books to my 2-year-old daughter, and I realized that my inflection and character voices were on point. So I thought to myself, “You know what, it’s about time I gave this a shot.”
Because I’ve all ways loved to copy cartoon voices an anime and that inspired me to try to become an voice actor
I want to become a voice actor because I thought I had a pleasant voice, others have complimented me for it, I had a passionate way of reading books (like I was REALLY into it!), and also because I like to speak like a radio advertiser, I like to speak out with different accents, and impersonate some cartoon characters.
Awesome Miguel!
Over the years I have received a lot of comments from my friends/family regarding my voice and the style. Also, I’m a trainer for graphic related software hence a naturally developed interest btw I have good impersonating talent ;-), to some extent – Overall I would love to support my current internal team and external clients with voice over for video/multimedia presentations. Thanks for the first video – Looking forward to more help from you
I have a dramatic reading voice and have always done funny voices!
I enjoy doing impressions and voices for friends. Many people tel me they enjoy my voice.
I’ve always been a little interested in the subject. And in recent months i have had 5 different individuals tell me I have a radio voice.
Growing up I had a lot of family always telling me I had a good radio voice, especially once I got a bit older. I don’t have the deepest voice normally but I can get down there if I need to I suppose. I didn’t think much of it until I started playing DnD. Doing voices at the table was fun and easy even if I was the only one doing them. Up until this point I didn’t really know the world of voice acting existed, I knew people had to record the lines and everything for animated stuff but it never really crossed my mind as something I could do. Then I found Critical Role, you may know it, its kinda popular. I started to learn more about the cast and what kinda stuff they did outside of CR and it has inspired me to try it as well.
I grew up listening to the greats; Gary Owens, Mike Road (of Race Bannon fame) Walter Cronkite, and some others that weren’t in broadcasting, per se. Guys like George Carlin. Tremendous versatility in his voice and delivery. I envied them all. So, I learned how to talk like the guy on the six o’clock news, learned some different languages (not fluently, but enough to say Please, Thank You, and most importantly — WHERE’S THE BATHROOM?) I’m really hoping to have a good experience with this and maybe make a good living for my wife and family.
I had thought about it before, but never got anything going and don’t have a clue where to start. I am disabled, husband retired, fixed income and would like to bring in a little more income. Not extra, just income. I have had a few people tell me that my voice is soothing. I have been unhealthy thanks to doctors almost killing me and I have been trying to heal for years on my own. I am almost there so I’d like to start doing what I can. It is something I can do at home, since I’m not able to really drive right now. Thanks
I was surfing the internet looking for ways to earn extra income. I ran across the voice over career and started researching this as a possibility. I am a singer which requires interpretation. I have been told that I have a soothing voice. Doing voice overs would allow me to work from home, be my own boss, and use my creative side as you stated in the video. I am extremely anxious to get started. I have already located the perfect place in my home for recording!
That’s great Deborah! You’re on your way!
So I can make extra income, work from home, and voice different characters look back at what I accomplished through a God given talent.
I love listening to audio books. I listen to about 4-5 each month. One day I thought it would be fun to get paid to read books. That is when I started looking around on how to become a voice actor. I took an introductory class at my local community college and found out there are way many more ways I can be a voice actor than just audiobooks. When I heard that I knew I could be great at this. My roommate and friend, who happens to be a model, told me about your website. That is how I ended up here. I can’t wait to get started on this new and fun career.
Hi Jason,
Fantastic instructional video, really looking forward to the rest of them!
From an early age I became FASCINATED with imitating people, especially accents. With a recent lifestyle change I started thinking of ways to work remotely and audio books popped into my head. A friend of a friend happened to be doing voice over work and gave me an overview of how vast the work can be.
Cheers
Awesome! I hope the rest of the videos and guides help you!
I came across your video on youtube, searching for ways to get into voice overs. I use to work in radio several years ago, and I’ve had quite of few wonderful experiences locally but now I would like to work nationally and really start doing voice acting. Thank You for sharing your videos! I look forward to seeing the rest step by step.
Happy to help Iris!
Hi Jason,
Thank you for sharing your videos. I’d like to get into voice acting because I sing and I’m also an English teacher. I’ve been told that I have a great voice and that i should’ve been an actress. I’d also love to be able to use my voice to make some extra money. I figure no better time to start than now!
HI Katiana,
Singing and teaching is a great background for voice-over. Next step is to set up a recording space. I wish you the best!
Hello Jason, First of all, thank you for putting these videos together. The reason why I decided to try my hand or even my voice in this field is that people comment on how good my voice sounds, and also I’m willing to make a career out of this opportunity at the young age of 55. Can’t wait for the next video.
Thanks Paul. Glad to hear the videos are helping you.
I’m interested in voice acting because I have a deep voice and at a previous job I would have customers ask me weekly if I had ever worked or considered working in radio.
It sounds like exactly what i need in my life. Something that doesn’t have to be a full time commitment, can be fun & creative, and helps bring in some extra cash. Ive always been told i have a nice voice and wondered how people get into such careers…. Now thanks to you, i’ll get to know as well ? thank you!!
You’re very welcome Kim!
I’ve thought about getting into Voice Acting for years, mainly because I think it would be fun to do narration or character voices. I have no idea if I have a good voice but I am willing to try anyway.
I don’t know if you’re familiar with Sturgis, SD at all but they host the largest motorcycle rally in the world. A friend of mine built a radio station right inside one the biggest bars down town. I helped him build and maintain it and after a couple of years he talked me into DJing for him. I absolutely loved every bit of it, but my favorite aspect and where I think I really shined was doing ads either recorded or live. Though you mentioned it’s not as important as people may think I do have very deep incredible voice. Thanks
Sounds like a good time Charles. Having a deep voice doesn’t hurt at all.
I’m interested in being a voice actor because I’ve been told I have a nice voice and I think I would really enjoy this type of work. I love the idea of working from home and using my creative side to earn money. Not to mention the freedom to work full or part time. How fun that would be!
It’s a blast Alisha! I hope the guides and videos help you.
All my life people have told me I have a great voice and it’s unforgetable. How flattering! But true lol
I want to be a voice actor because, it seems like a fun job and all. I wanted to try and get into it when I started paying more attention to the voices in animated shows and movies so it peaked my interest to see how they do it and sort of inspired me to try.
This seems like something I’d love to make a profession.
I need a way to release some of my creative side. I have been writing and delivering speeches for decades, and would like to use my skills in voice over.
Fantastic videos and advice. I have always been told I have a good voice, but I am also a public speaker, have done some acting and podcasting, love reading, but I am also a business owner and professional. The thought of doing some work at home and making extra money is very appealing.
I want to be a Voice Actor because I wanna be in Cartoon Shows and Anime shows for tv!
I love this, thanks for sharing your expertise! VO Acting is something I always thought sounded cool, but for some reason never thought of it for me. However, I think I finally have the confidence in myself and my abilities and business savvy that I thought I would look into it. I started recording audiobooks earlier this year and love it. Looking for ways to expand and really make this my full time business.
Hi, Jason. Glad to have stumbled across you today. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with those just starting in this unusual field. I look forward to seeing where this new road takes me. I’m at a place in my life where I can finally focus on me. As my voice is one of my strengths, as well as my personality and intelligence, this type of work really appeals to me. Let’s take them out for a spin.
Hi MaryBeth! I’m excited for you as you start your journey into voice-over!
I definitely want to be a voice actor. During the fall semester I was a DJ for my own one hour radio show, and people kept telling me how clear and crisp my voice was. Then my professor showed us the voices.com website and I started building my profile. I would be such a DREAM come true if I could voice and anime, Disney or My Little Pony Character! I am definitely willing to put in the time to get my career flying!
Awesome Sarah! Hope the videos help you get there!
I became interested in voice over acting as a child but I grew up in a house hold of blue collar workers so I was convinced that I had to follow in their footsteps to be successful. After graduating college with a Business degree and Dental Certificate I soon found out that I still had dreams and they were not dental or retail. I am now in my thirties but I now have time and motivation to start working towards my goal of getting my voice heard. I don’t know where to start but I found your video and I would love to start learning. I hope to learn enough to get me a starting point to better myself and getting me closer to my goal.
Hi Yennifer, It’s great that you have the time and motivation to start working towards your dream! These videos will show you the exact steps to take to reach your goal.
Hi Jason, I want to be a voice actor because with my English accent people always ask me to read or recite things saying “I could listen to you all day!” Plus I have a well paying flexible career so can afford to be struggling for a while. The third reason is it just sounds like fun! Gotta do what you love, am I right….
Hi Clare! Yes it’s funny how an accent can be so pleasing to listen to.
These are really excellent videos, Jason. I’m very interested in getting into this! I’ve hosted trivia/done public address AND done some VO stuff at work. I’m starting late here, but looking forward to seeing if I can make a career here!
Thanks Elliott! I hope the videos and guides help you turn voice-over into a career.
Hello Jason – Thank you for the wonderful introduction video. I am setting some major goals here and with my birthday being less than a month away, I want to have a demo ready. I work in retail and sales and engage with the public all day. I am asked on a regular basis where I am from and told that I have an accent. Straight up midwest girl so I don’t get it, but since I live in Atlanta I think native Atlantans are intrigued!! I am hoping to have the right talent to pursue this vocation for extra income and creative outlets. I’m excited to have found you and thank you for sharing your insights. Looking forward to the upcoming sessions!
Have a great day
Happy upcoming b-day Andrea!
Shalom Greetings, Jason! Your program is very helpful and I’m enjoying it. What got me interested in voiceovers? Well, I enjoy animation, and recording my voice but like so many others, I was told I have a voice for radio and TV but that was years ago. Of course, I’m my worse critic when it comes to my own voice. It wasn’t what I expected when I first heard it but it didn’t stop me. I’ve learned that everyone has a voice that is unique and It makes me feel that there is a market for my voice, so FULL SPEED AHEAD!
Jason, thanks for this. I’m currently a music educator at an international school. People have been complimenting my voice for years. More importantly, I’m seeking the independence of working at home and taking charge of my own income through home based business. As a music educator with a focus on singing, I understand the importance of practice, training, ongoing education, and performance.
Whether or not I move into full time voice acting, I want to do the following over the next 3 months: 1. Pursue voice coaching – spoken voice, and singing voice 2. Record some voice overs in a fledging home studio (closet with $100 mic and audacity) 3. Connect with great coaches like you and Bill DeWees (I’ve already lined up a call with him later this week).
Do you offer one on one consults?
Thank you for your videos. Looking forward to the next one.
Thanks for your comment! Sorry, I don’t do 1-to-1 consults at this time due to my studio schedule. I’m happy to answer questions though, especially if it’ll help many.
Hi Jason,
Thanks so much for making these videos to help others who are interested in Voice Acting. The reason why I want to be a Voice Actor is because I enjoy using different voices as part of my daily life. Whenever I watch a video or a movie, I memorize the lines really quick, rewind it from start, and monologue it. My family and friends say I have a unique and powerful voice like straight out of an Anime. I like to be goofy and serious when I’m practicing. One time in High School, my teacher wanted to see how we would role play without using our real voice. My teacher insisted on me using 5 different voices. She was challenging me to do it because I told her about me pursuing to become a Voice Actor. By doing so, I surprised her and got inspiration from her saying “You’re going to become a great Voice Actor if you keep practicing.” All the inspiration I get from Friends and Family, is what motivates me to become a Voice Actor. Hopefully I’ll make them proud and become an inspiration to all.
Thanks again for your help Jason
Sincerely,
Irvin Montes
Great story Irvin! I have no doubt you’ll be make it.
Hey Jason, cool to meet you. Great video introduction, I’ve been wanting to get into voice over for years, and feel I’m at my best point of life to do so! I’m in need of some extra income, but want to be able to make a living off my interests and talents, and I feel like this is a great chunk of that. No real experience in the field yet, officially, but I’ve made pre-demos before, sort of just sat down and did different voices of existing characters I’m a fan of, and overall it went pretty well. Ready for the next videos, thanks!
Thanks Adam! I hope the videos and guides help you get started.
Hi Jason,
I fell into this by accident. Having always done presentations for my company over many years, I got asked to contribute to some training collateral we put together at the beginning of the year. As part of this I was asked to put together a script, and a brief voice over of how it should sound, which I did via my PCs cheap headphone microphone, with a view to it then being recorded “for real” by the e-learning training team.
However, when they heard my voice, they liked it so much that they asked me to fly to their studios and record a total of six e-learning modules. Having also been a musician for 30 years, I suggested it would be more convenient if I build a rudimentary studio in my study, which would also cost less than the airfare.
So having successfully done the first set of modules to great reviews, I’m now doing more sessions directly for my company, and it has got me thinking that aside from being an enjoyable “extra string to my bow”, it could be a fun sideline as well.
I found your “9 Ways to Record Better Sounding Voice Over” video on YouTube, and it brought me here. Looking forward to learning more in the coming days and weeks!!
All the best, Mike
That’s a great story Mike. Congrats! I hope the guides and videos are helpful to you. Jason
Hi Jason,
Thanks for your video. I want to become voice actor for several reasons.
I used to impersonate teachers in school and I am able to speak in different accents. I can speak in different voices. I want to give voice for videogames, wildlife documentaries and movies.
Hi Jason, Darrick Carter here. I have ‘that voice” everyone says I have, especially the ladies! LOL. Well I’m not sure about “that voice” thing but I am interested in finding out if I have the potential for VO. Anyway I’ve listened and enjoyed videos 1 and 2. Please send me videos 3 thru 5 at your earliest convenience. Take care and much thanks for ALL your professional and hard work. Peace!
I want to do VO work for so many reasons. I worked in radio in high school and have always been told I have a great voice. I can do many spot on impressions. I LOVE working from home and I have a TON of free time to devote to this. I’ve been a professional musician for the last 20 years and it’s all I’ve ever needed to do to make a great living…but, as time goes by…I find myself wanting to transition out of “night life” type work. I also don’t want to lose the lifestyle quality I’ve built, so my goal is to eventually transition into full-time VO work. Thanks for your videos, Jason…this is going to help me get started in a big way! I’m already a subscriber to voices.com and and working on my profile and demo.
Awesome Dean! Reach out if you have any questions.
Hi Jason,
I too used to mimic commercials and got a break 30 years ago working at a small radio station. I ended up cutting some spots and fell in love with it. Unfortunately reality hit me and I didn’t follow my dreams. I’m now in a position to give it a try and look forward to learning more about the VO industry through your knowledge & experience!! Thanks so much for putting this together.
John
Happy to help John!
Hi Jason. Thank you for making these videos to help all of us that are interestedly in Voice acting. I currently work on my own music production and vocals for The currently popular EDM scene. I have made over 50 tracks in the past 14 years and I have successfully market and distribute them on all major digital downloads. What got me interested in voice acting is because most of the time my co-producers and engineers tell me how powerful and unique my voice is and how I should be doing a lot more with it. I always enjoyed mimicking other languages, and I find great pleasure in creating characters with my vocal’s capabilities. I am super excited to learn more about this fascinating industry. Thank you so much for making it possible for us newbies, God Bless Your kind heart!
Vanessa Picart
Thanks Vanessa. Enjoy the videos!
Hi, Jason! Thank you for this instructive and inspiring video series! To answer your questions, I got interested in voice over since I was little. I very much enjoyed (and I still do) listening to children stories on tapes, and recording personalized tapes with my sister :), where we would pretend being characters from stories or we would present the news and improvise commercials. Now, I want to experience working as a voice actor because I find it a fun and engaging way to express myself through words, while helping and inspiring others. Also, I loved being an actress in theater plays for adults and children for a few years and I’ve been told I have a beautiful voice.
Hi Patricia! Your love of stories and acting will be very beneficial to you in voice over.
Hi Jason. Ive been thinking of starting v/o work for awhile, and felt encouraged after seeing quite a bit of work for MiddleAge Female voices, but am wondering whether there’s enough call for those of us with Australian accents? Mine isn’t a typically heavily nasal Aussie accent – quite rounded, deep and warm, but still identifiably Australian. Im comfortable that I have a pleasant and engaging sound (I teach theatre and have long received compliments after speaking over a mic to a large audience or when reading aloud to children etc) but have you noticed enough ebook work for an Aussie accent to make it worth setting up?
Hi Jacqueline,
Good question! Most of the work I see is for North American English simply because that’s what I promote. So I don’t see much for an Aussie accent myself but I’m sure there is plenty of work available. You could find work not only in your area but also with U.S. based companies who are open to accents. I do see this quite a bit. They consider it as a way to differentiate themselves.
Thank you – good to know that some U.S companies might be open to an Aussie voice as well. Cheers
Very cool. I took classes in Broadcasting and VoiceOver about 30 years ago and never made the leap I should have. I was accepted into a professional school at very little cost back then , but work schedule did not allow. So now , I am looking into again , as time is passing by. I also went to a 2 hour class locally , where they only seemed to want your money and tell everyone how good they are. So, I will watch and learn ! Thanks
Hey Sam! I’ve never taken any local VO classes myself, but I’ve heard that scenario many times. I hope the videos help you make the leap 🙂
I have done voice impersonations since I was a kid. People would always say you should be on TV or radio. I’m finally looking into voice acting as a career and look forward to seeing your tips.
Thanks Rodney. Hope they help you get started!
I’ve been acting on the stage since I was in high school. I’m done improv and stand-up comedy and I absolutely love it. I’ve been told that I should do Voice work even offered a job for someone’s husbands company but that I would have to move to Canada, I live in Florida mind you, and that offer was around 8 years ago. I wish I would have taken it LOL . I’ve Been Told that I should do sex operator work but who really wants to do that, not I. I I am a stay-at-home mom. I’d like to have a career as well that I can work from home working from home that is flexible to my needs. I currently do some voice acting gigs via the phone and have done about a hundred gigs in the past year unfortunately all are unaccredited. But I don’t want to hide in the shadows anymore.
Hi Jason my well I’ve been doing voices my whole life I can reproduce just about any accent I hear change my voice as well as as speak 4 languages. I’ve always wanted to voices for cartoons I decided that I really want to try and see if I have what it takes personally I am pretty sure I do as far as the voice department goes I just really don’t know where to start and finances being a little tight right now an inexpensive way to get going would be great and really helpful any advice would also be appreciated thanks.
Hi Corey,
Your ability to speak 4 languages will open up many doors to you in voice over. Cartoons are great but it tends to be a smaller niche within voice over – so it’s more of a challenge to get work in this area. Videos 2-5 will show you the exact steps to take to get started.
I’ve always been a fan of voice acting. From Mel Blanc to Billy West. I have loved voice work since I was a child.i love cartoons in general and just want to so baldly see my name in the credits of an animated feature
Thanks for your help Jason
For years people have mentioned they love the sound of my voice and also I️ like to imitate scripts and quotes from Epic & War movies, I’m also a self employed so why not try to use my voice in other ways. Look forward to get into this business,I️ also speak Spanish which it could be helpful. Thanks
Hi Gustavo, The ability to speak more than one language in voice over is huge. It opens you up to many twice as many opportunities and helps you stand out.
Thank you Jason. This is informative. I want to start investing soon on my microphone, the software and also another computer to dedicate to this.
Hi Jason, Thanks for the info. I have worked in in Tele-Sales for over 20 years and it’s fair to say to my distinctive Yorkshire accent has helped me be remembered and be successful. I am confident talking in front of people in variety of situations so think VO could be a great adenture for me. Look foward to your other videos & information.
Excellent Tony! A Yorkshire accent is a great asset!!
Thank you, Jason, for Video One. I’m looking forward to watching the other four.
I am a 50-year-old truck driver who smashed his knee on August 21 and may not be able to drive again. I have been interested in radio and voice work since high school, but never pursued it beyond announcing a few sporting events and lectoring and calling BINGO for our church. (I also taught university and high school courses intermittently in the past, which had its own theatrical component, it’s true.)
Many others have encouraged me along this line over the decades, but I never thought I could make much money at it. While I wish my knee was still whole, it will be good to have this time to decide what I want to do with the next chapter of my long working life. Voice acting just might be it.
Thank you again,
Chad Ronnander
Hi Chad,
Sorry to hear about your knee. It sounds like you’ve got some experience (announcing, teaching, etc.) that will be helpful in voice over. I hope the videos are a good guide for you!
Thank for all the great info! Looking forward to part too.
Thanks again Jason.
Melinda Montoya
You’re welcome! I wish you much success Melinda!
Thanks Jason; your a Gem, as I truly do appreciate this wealth of Start-Up to a VO Career – Business “FREE” information.
I decided to become a VO Artist because Hubby and I are Citizens Of The Workd; We live a transit lifestyle – having relocated from our Homeland of Australia in 2001 and since 3 Lived in: USA & UK; where we’ve moved home twice and travelled frequently within) and are a frequent travellers for both hubby’s work as well; our leisure. So required a business which was not only Transportable but also one which offered flexibility whilst traveling (operate from within a Hotel suite) plus provide me with flexible hours and hopefully also a source of additional financial income going into our aging years.
As an Aussie Expat; Who is passionate for a good old fashion chat, I’m hoping to carve a niche for myself as a Natural Conversationionalist VO Talent. This is the plan anyways! I’m currently living in England, UK. Thx again for free Guidance!
Should prove to be a interesting journey for this Technophobic Aussie VO Artist? Thankfully, I married a Technical Engineer / Guru to assist my many expected self-created blunders? However, I truly must preserver as its my business that’ll be worked whilst he’s mostly at work.
Jason, thanks so much for putting together such informative content! I’ve always loved reading things out loud and people always say I have a great voice, friends and family call me “the narrator”. I recently had my second child and have decided to take the leap and purse a voice acting career from home. I had no idea where to start and came across your site on pinterest, what a find! I have a spare room that I will be converting into my studio, but will hold off on starting that project until I’ve watched all 5 videos of this series…Also, I need to get some equipment (only have a computer & laptop) and hopefully you can steer me in the right direction. Again, thanks soo much and I look forward to gaining more knowledge!
Congrats on the 2nd baby Lily! I hope the videos and guides are helpful to you in launching your voice over career!
Hi Jason, Seriously, thank you so much for these videos! I’m so grateful to you for following up with me too! I have an acting background but didn’t pursue it further. I enjoy being creative with my voice and I’ve done some VO projects last year which paid well but dried up. 🙁 I worked from home and loved that! I have now decided to pursue this further for real because I recently had my first baby and I really want to work from home and run my own business. I really need help and guidance though. So a big thank you!
Hi Teejay, Your acting background will be very beneficial for you. Working from home is the best 🙂
Thank you Jason. I decided that I wanted to become a voice actor because I enjoy the creative side and everyone tells me that I have a great reading voice. Looking forward to video 2. Sincerely, Denise
Great Denise! I hope the videos are helpful.
Thanks for the time you have put in Jason. I first got interested in VO after hearing Don Lafontaine in Movie Trailers, I know I dont have “the voice of god” but i’ve taken more time to listen to what people are actually narrating since then and always wanted to try it for myself, just never knew how to.
Hey Scott – The movie trailer voice is still around, but it’s not nearly as popular as it once was. I hope the videos help you in getting started.
I’ve watched step 1, looking forward to 2-5 Jason
Wow Jason, tons of useful information on this site. Many thanks for your efforts and I look forward to more! Cheers
Hey Jason, thank you for setting up these videos! I have been an actor for a long time and decided to look in to a career in voice overs when I started thinking about what sets me apart in the acting world. I have a very commercial look with a lot of competition (blonde-haired,blue-eyed female), but the roles I have the most fun playing don’t often match my look! I love comedy and have nailed the voice of a 6 year old girl, and grew up with cats that I always gave these crazy character voices to. I realized that since the whole aspect of “looks” is taken away in voice over work, this may be the best way to showcase my talent. I also love the idea of working from home and being able to use my creative skills everyday. I know that with acting there is a lot to the business side and it can be overwhelming and very competitive, so I’m ready to start learning more about the similarities and differences that come along with voice over acting. Looking forward to watching the rest of your videos!
-Ali
Awesome Ali! That’s one great thing about voice over, you’ll be hired based on your voice alone, which is easier to change than your age or appearance.
Thank you Jason for setting up the videos. I have always wanted to do voice over for as long as I can remember. I enjoy acting, but I get fascinated by the concept of using my voice to act something out, rather than my body. I am naturally talkative, so I felt that I can be paid for doing something I enjoy…talking. For years I was scared to try, but now I’m ready.
Looking forward to working with you Jason.
You’re very welcome Katlego!
I appreciate the useful advice, Jason.
People frequently notice my loud voice. Why not to let the distinct voice work to my advantage?
Jason, this intro course is tremendous. I have to say that after checking out your website and that of some other pros, that I am very humbled by the demos. In every industry, there is a “language” that it uses and just learning the jargon and then how to speak in those manners will be a challenge. I watched a video of a voice director and when I heard her direction, I really did not know what she was asking the tallent to do. It is going to be a learning curve and your information will be a huge help.
Great to hear Alan! I wish you much success as you grow and learn.
I have always known that I have a good speaking voice (lots of nods on my professional telephone voice) and I recently did the voice over for my father’s real estate video, which was my first experience with in-studio video production. I felt very comfortable in the sound proof booth reading from my script and immediately realized that I have the chops for voice over work. I would love to be able to commute to this studio for future voice over work but it’s almost an hour’s drive from my house one way so getting a home set up will be a welcome alternative. Now I need to learn as much as I can about the business end of voice over work, and these videos are going to be a tremendous blessing in that department!
Glad the videos are helping you Kim!
I used to work at a big box store and people that I worked with were always complimenting me on the announcements I made on the overhead system. I was perusing work at home jobs and came across the the story you wrote for The Work at Home Woman and thought to myself “you can do this!”. I would really enjoy being my own boss and having time to spend with friends, my grandson and doing the things I’ve always wanted to do but never had the time. I know there’s more to it and those are things that I have experience doing, so I’m going to give it a try. I also have to agree with Brian Schmidt for the advice for beginners…
That’s great Pamela! I wish you much success!
Thank you for your time and effort Jason. For years whenever I’d answer the phone at work, customers would say I should be in radio. So as time went on, I would play around and have some fun answering the phone in different voices, and still received positive feedback. I also enjoy listening to audio books in the car. My neighbor is an accomplished novelist who has also written a few short stories, so I asked him if I could make an audio version of one of the stories. He was impressed with the sample I gave him (I only thought it was okay), so I’m going to finish it soon for him. All that has given me the desire and motivation to become serious about a voice acting career. To all the other beginners …..believe in yourself and don’t stop trying. You’re better then you think you are!
Great Brian! Way to stay positive and motivated!
Thanks Jason. This video was quite helpful and yes educating too. Didn’t know technicals were required for setting up the business of voice acting. I’ve loved the art of proper articulation, the intonation and character changes since I was a kid particularly in the cartoons I watched. I do my best to mimic them and I’ve thought of working with Disney. That’s the reason why I would want to start up as a voice actor; to master the art and out smiles on faces.
That’s a great reason Samantha! It’ll take time to get to the point where you could work with Disney, but anything is possible if you improve your skill and have the right agent. I wish you much success as a voice actor!
Do you have to have an agent when you’re a rookie just starting out?
Jason I love the video and I got started in voice acting when I was little and watched cartoons and did my best to mimic the voices. I practice everyday when I am by myself and sometimes i don’t think I’m good enough,but my friends and family say I can definitely make it big. My main goal is to hopefully get recognized by my idol Seth MacFarlane. In fact my speech coach said I sounded just like Stewie Griffin and because it impressed him so much he sent me to a speech rally to see if I would win 1st place for my talent. Sadly I didn’t but that hasn’t stopped me yet and I hope my talent can even take me to do theater work as well. I know what it is I want to do as a voice actor and I look forward to your next video. Thank you so much Jason and I hope to learn more from you.
Sincerely, James
Thanks James!
Thanks so much for your video Jason. I’ve been out of the job market for over 10 years & recently divorced so I found myself in quite a precarious situation. Needing to work but with no degree or recent employment history to say the least has been challenging. I love meeting and talking to people and I am often told I could sell ice water to the devil. I’m taking that as a compliment and with some basic information – as provided by you in your video – I believe will definitely put me on the path to success along with some female ingenuity and hard work. Look forward to learning more and eventually securing plenty of jobs to be successful in a voice acting career. Thanks again ! Leanne
Hi Leanne – I wish you much success in voice acting!
Hey Jason! Thanks for the information. Every little bit helps! As far as MY getting involved with voice over work: I spent 30 plus years working in and for the radio business..primarily on the creative writing and producing side. Voiced many a script in my day..from the ANNOUNCER style to conversational. Always enjoyed doing character/cartoon type voices, along with the conversational comedic read. Of course, in the Perfect Russ World, I could work FULL TIME from my home studio writing creative and doing voice over work. I’ve been taking steps towards that reality over the past few years, but just haven’t taken the big LEAP yet! Information like yours will help me do that! It’s GREAT to know one doesn’t have to have a Sam Elliot-Morgain Freeman-Mike Rowe type voice to make it in the business. Thank you again for posting your video and I look forward to seeing more! Have a Happy New Year!
Russ
Thanks Russ!
Hi
I used to work in TV & Radio as a producer/presenter for 7 years. As it was a state run service I presented a range of programs from children to sport. We are talking 25 years ago.
Since then I have had and looked after my family and currently teach adults part time.
I have toyed with idea of using my voice again as I really enjoyed it but not sure how to start. I had technicians handle the recording side of things in the past.
I am more inclined towards e-learning and audio books. But as I really enjoy computer games I would like to have a stab at that.
I have thought about doing voluntary work to regain experience. What do you think?
The technical side of voice over is much simpler now than it was 25 years ago. So that’ll be easier for your to figure out. Voluntary work would be a good way to evaluate your strengths.
I have been in Telecommunications since 1998 and have always goofed around at work when I answer the phone like I was a DJ. People tell me that I am in the wrong business and I should look in to voice overs or possibly a commentator position. I think they are pulling my change so I thought to myself what the heck, what do I have to lose.
Hey Jason,
Do you think you can check out my website and demos, and possibly offer your opinion? Just getting started and was hoping to get advice from a pro. Great video by the way!
Hey Lee! Sure – I’ll check out your demo and send you an email with feedback.
Thanks for the tips! This will help me get started.