Saturday, November 1, 2014

Levels Of Voice Over Commercials

By Roseann Hudson


Many people have vocal talents that could serve them well as a career choice. Perhaps it is a speaking timbre that is soothing, captivating, or alluring enough to command an audience, or maybe they simply have a very unique sound. For these individuals, working in voice over commercials, a field that is actually rather diverse, just may be the perfect option.

In this field, individuals use their vocal abilities to sell products, services or ideas, pass on information, or provide a source of entertainment. This is a career in acting where a person's physical appearance actually does not matter since it is never shown in the work. The point is to effectively complete the assignment communicating emotions, ambiance or impressions using just speech and sound.

The recorded piece may be aired under several different circumstances and situations. What immediately comes to mind for most people are radio spots and television clips that require a narrator or character actor. These skills are also put to use in ads placed on websites, those played prior to the start of a movie and even the ones heard when a caller is put on hold during a telephone call as a few more examples.

Not everyone is suitable for this job as there are certain qualities they must possess and particular skills that must be mastered. The obvious requirement would be vocals that translate well when recorded, because though someone may sound great while talking, not everyone sounds the as good on electronic devices. One must also be able to speak clearly, even when using a pronounced accent of any sort.

Most people do not realize that it takes a lot more than just a great vocal ability to find success in this career field. In reality, just as film and theater call for a cast of actors with a wide range of looks, auditory spots often requires varied voices. As important as one's sound is their acting skills because this type of role generally means painting visuals for the audience using only words and inflection.

Narration spots and animation roles, along with commercial work, are the three primary categories of this area of the acting field. The advertising branch of this trio is further divided into the local, regional and national levels of employment. They are equally important and each one will have their own specific requirements along with certain pros and cons.

Local level jobs usually include doing spots that will be aired just within a generalized area for clients such as car dealerships and privately owned businesses. Regional gigs are those that usually require the actor to work out of a large city and deals with ads that will be shared over multiple closely positioned broadcast zones. National positions are heard throughout a country and are commonly based in major metropolises and often call for union membership.

Generally speaking, all levels will require the same basic protocols in order for an actor to gain employment. The first thing most do is hire coaches to help fine tune and improve their vocal techniques and acting skills. A quality resume' and professional grade demo tape are necessary as copies of each should be submitted at all casting calls and to all advertising agencies that meet one's criteria.




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