[I:http://jackieevanchoi.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/CatherineMarshall0.jpg]When working with a short commercial script or even reading a long narration piece, you don’t have time as a voice talent to “develop” the character as you go along. Part of your pre-recording practice involves breaking down the script to figure out things, like: Who is your character? What is the point of the script? Who is the demographic you’re trying to reach?
Method acting can be used for voice overs, even though no one will see what you look like! To help you get into character, ask yourself what was going on the moment before the script begins. If you’re working with a shorter script, you’ll probably notice that it is one of these:
1. You easily relate to the character because these voice jobs are in your niche. The situation is also boiler-plate, and you know exactly what to do.
2. The script is so short that you’re not sure if it’s in your niche or not! Sometimes the copywriters aren’t able to flesh out the script well enough, so they hope the voice actor will know how to interpret the copy.
In the second case, it’s especially helpful to imagine a back story to help you sound more natural.
Answer for yourself: where does the script take place? What was your character doing minutes before the script started? Who is the character talking to? Commit to a back story, and match your voice-over technique to fit the situation. Your pitch, volume, energy and attitude should match the character and situation in the script. If you do this, you’ll probably find that your performance becomes very natural after that!
Keep in mind that when you play it back, you may find your interpretation didn’t actually make sense at all. That’s OK! Tweak the back story and your character, but make sure to be specific with your interpretation. If you don’t commit to a firm story or character, it will never sound quite right.
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