3 answers
Alina
Student
Jersey City, New Jersey
3
Questions
Asked
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What should I include in an impressive voiceover reel?
Is it similar to a video reel in that it should showcase my different styles or characters? And is there an appropriate length it should be? Thanks!
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3 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1179
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Alina !
Doing voice overs is such a fun job and a great way to stay active and show your talents !
Today, most actors are using voice over software to create their reels. When there is a casting notice for voice actors, it can sometimes contain specifics as to what they would like to receive from you, so follow directions from the notice as to how many voices and length.
In general, you would include examples of a commercial voice and a cartoon character voice. Also a business voice in which you sound professional, knowledgeable, like a formal voice. Another one you should include would be an e-book voice, where you can show your emotional and story telling skills.
If you are wondering how long the demo reel should be, there really is no set time for it, but it is suggested to keep the entire reel about 90 seconds and break it into 15 - 20 second segments. Some narration demos can be up to 5 minutes long so they can really hear your voice to see how it would fit for long narration projects. Again, these are just general suggestions and when you apply for jobs, they may tell you exactly what they want you to send. If they don't request specifics, try these suggestions and see what happens or actually e-mail the company and ask them for the specifics.
I do want to advise that actors who can do both a cartoon female and cartoon male character voices are very marketable. Practice those voices and develop a signature sound so that you can be chosen for a wider variety of characters. Definitely take a voice over class when you get the chance so you can learn more about the East Coast agencies as I see that you are located in New Jersey. The Los Angeles industry may work differently than the East Coast agencies.
I hope that this was a bit of a help for you and I wish you all the best !
Doing voice overs is such a fun job and a great way to stay active and show your talents !
Today, most actors are using voice over software to create their reels. When there is a casting notice for voice actors, it can sometimes contain specifics as to what they would like to receive from you, so follow directions from the notice as to how many voices and length.
In general, you would include examples of a commercial voice and a cartoon character voice. Also a business voice in which you sound professional, knowledgeable, like a formal voice. Another one you should include would be an e-book voice, where you can show your emotional and story telling skills.
If you are wondering how long the demo reel should be, there really is no set time for it, but it is suggested to keep the entire reel about 90 seconds and break it into 15 - 20 second segments. Some narration demos can be up to 5 minutes long so they can really hear your voice to see how it would fit for long narration projects. Again, these are just general suggestions and when you apply for jobs, they may tell you exactly what they want you to send. If they don't request specifics, try these suggestions and see what happens or actually e-mail the company and ask them for the specifics.
I do want to advise that actors who can do both a cartoon female and cartoon male character voices are very marketable. Practice those voices and develop a signature sound so that you can be chosen for a wider variety of characters. Definitely take a voice over class when you get the chance so you can learn more about the East Coast agencies as I see that you are located in New Jersey. The Los Angeles industry may work differently than the East Coast agencies.
I hope that this was a bit of a help for you and I wish you all the best !
Hello Ms. Marotta! So great to hear from you again, and thank you so much for the pointers! This was really insightful! I really appreciate the different genre suggestions, as I wasn’t sure what kind of angles would be most appropriate to include. I will definitely keep these points in mind as I start the recording process soon. Thank you so much! All the best,
Alina
Alina
You are very welcome, Alina !
Michelle M.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Creating an impressive voiceover reel is crucial for showcasing your skills and attracting potential clients or employers. Here's what you should include and some tips to consider:
1. **Variety of Styles:** Yes, similar to a video reel, your voiceover reel should showcase your versatility. Include snippets that demonstrate a range of styles and characters you can voice. This might include narration, commercial, animation, character voices, and any other genres you specialize in.
2. **Showcase Your Strengths:** Highlight your strengths within each style. If you excel at emotional or dramatic reads, make sure to include a compelling sample. If you're great at humor or accents, feature those talents as well.
3. **Professional Quality:** Ensure that the audio quality of your reel is top-notch. Use a high-quality microphone, record in a quiet environment, and edit your audio to remove any background noise or mistakes. Professionalism matters in voiceover work.
4. **Engaging Opening:** Start your reel with a strong, attention-grabbing clip. You want to immediately capture the listener's interest and make them want to hear more.
5. **Short and Sweet:** Keep your voiceover reel relatively short, typically around 1 to 2 minutes. Remember, potential clients or employers may receive many submissions, so it's essential to make a strong impression quickly.
6. **Smooth Transitions:** Ensure that transitions between different samples are seamless. Use music or sound effects sparingly, and only if they enhance the overall presentation.
7. **Clear Labeling:** Clearly label each segment on your reel to indicate the style, character, or project it represents. This makes it easy for potential clients to identify your capabilities.
8. **High-Impact Finish:** End your reel with another strong, memorable clip. Leave a lasting impression on your listener.
9. **Regular Updates:** As you gain experience and develop your skills, consider updating your voiceover reel periodically to reflect your growth and versatility.
10. **Online Accessibility:** Make your voiceover reel easily accessible online, either on your website, professional social media profiles, or dedicated voiceover platforms. Provide a direct link in your resume or when submitting applications.
11. **Seek Feedback:** Before finalizing your reel, consider getting feedback from industry professionals or peers. Constructive criticism can help you fine-tune your presentation.
Remember, your voiceover reel serves as your calling card in the industry, so investing time and effort into creating an impressive and well-crafted reel is a wise move. It's your opportunity to showcase your talent and convince potential clients or employers of your abilities. Good luck with your voiceover career!
1. **Variety of Styles:** Yes, similar to a video reel, your voiceover reel should showcase your versatility. Include snippets that demonstrate a range of styles and characters you can voice. This might include narration, commercial, animation, character voices, and any other genres you specialize in.
2. **Showcase Your Strengths:** Highlight your strengths within each style. If you excel at emotional or dramatic reads, make sure to include a compelling sample. If you're great at humor or accents, feature those talents as well.
3. **Professional Quality:** Ensure that the audio quality of your reel is top-notch. Use a high-quality microphone, record in a quiet environment, and edit your audio to remove any background noise or mistakes. Professionalism matters in voiceover work.
4. **Engaging Opening:** Start your reel with a strong, attention-grabbing clip. You want to immediately capture the listener's interest and make them want to hear more.
5. **Short and Sweet:** Keep your voiceover reel relatively short, typically around 1 to 2 minutes. Remember, potential clients or employers may receive many submissions, so it's essential to make a strong impression quickly.
6. **Smooth Transitions:** Ensure that transitions between different samples are seamless. Use music or sound effects sparingly, and only if they enhance the overall presentation.
7. **Clear Labeling:** Clearly label each segment on your reel to indicate the style, character, or project it represents. This makes it easy for potential clients to identify your capabilities.
8. **High-Impact Finish:** End your reel with another strong, memorable clip. Leave a lasting impression on your listener.
9. **Regular Updates:** As you gain experience and develop your skills, consider updating your voiceover reel periodically to reflect your growth and versatility.
10. **Online Accessibility:** Make your voiceover reel easily accessible online, either on your website, professional social media profiles, or dedicated voiceover platforms. Provide a direct link in your resume or when submitting applications.
11. **Seek Feedback:** Before finalizing your reel, consider getting feedback from industry professionals or peers. Constructive criticism can help you fine-tune your presentation.
Remember, your voiceover reel serves as your calling card in the industry, so investing time and effort into creating an impressive and well-crafted reel is a wise move. It's your opportunity to showcase your talent and convince potential clients or employers of your abilities. Good luck with your voiceover career!
Charlie Wilson 🎼🎭🎬🎙️
1
Answer
Updated
Charlie’s Answer
Definitely include voiceover samples whether it’s for arts or commercial projects. Now, if you are a voice actor and can do voices/impressions/characters, definitely add it to your reel. Casting directors want to know you can OWN that sound booth and that recording session.
Hello Charlie! Thank you so much for the tips! I’ll keep that confidence in mind during the recording process. All the best!
Alina