Is it better not to have a photo at all?
Greetings,
Do you have a photo or a graphical image that represents you as a voice actor?
A commonly held belief is that photographs can actually become a hindrance to voice actors because their physiques (outward appearance) and vocal talents are completely separate from one another.
For example, a talent may have a large, booming, and muscular voice perfect for voice-overs related to sports, but they may not have the physical appearance to match.
Is it better to remain visually anonymous, or should there be at least something visual, whether it be a head shot or a logo created specifically to reflect the vocal talents of a professional voice actor?
Curiously awaiting your thoughts...
Stephanie
What a coincidence, Stephanie. I was helping a friend get a web presence -he's a great voice but not so good at internet stuff- and I got tired of waiting for a photo, so I made him a signature graphic similar to what you would use on an internet message board. It has an icon that is original, nobody else has it, and it immediately tells people what his voice sounds like. I am dumping my photo and putting up a graphic instead.
From one of the most well known agencies in Los Angeles, the answer was DO NOT put your picture on the site unless you are an on-camera talent. Voice talent should never put their picture on their site for the reasons you specified.
Brian in Charlotte