Wild Mississippi Documentary Narrated By Chris Nichter
The mighty Mississippi River has captivated us all in some way, whether through literature, song or by living along its shores.
A new story about the river is due to air on the Nat Geo Wild channel this Sunday night featuring narration by a Voices.com talent!
Hear more about this program now in today's VOX Daily.
Creating Opportunities For Your Voice
Are you out pounding the pavement for your voice?
Do you seek out specific opportunities where you believe your voice would shine?
While not all marketing efforts lead to a warm microphone, they can certainly help you to build relationships and create bridges to better business.
Such has been the experience of one talented lady in my acquaintance.
Hear more about one voice artist's inspiring story about how she is making inroads with prospective clients in today's VOX Daily!
Angry Birds Interview With Sound Designer, Ari Pulkkinen
Do you play Angry Birds?
Ever wondered about where the voices came from or how the music came to be? If so, you'll love this post!
I hope you enjoy my interview with the sound designer and audio producer of Angry Birds, Ari Pulkkinen!
How To Get Permission To Record A Copyrighted Book
If you came across a book that you wanted to narrate that is still under copyright, who would you contact for permission to record?
After an open discussion via Facebook, two recommendations emerged for who to contact first when obtaining permission for recording a copyrighted work.
Hear what audiobook narrators are saying and discover tips for how you can embark on this journey in today's VOX Daily.
How Does Your Work Reflect You?
The sort of work you do, even though it may be acting, is telling of who you are, what matters to you and what you're willing to have your voice associated with.
How do the scripts you read reflect you and your heart?
Join in the discussion in today's VOX Daily.
London ABCs App Voiced By Voices.com Talent
Do you know your ABCs?
Looking for an app that makes learning the alphabet fun?
A new app in Apple's App Store will do more than simply teach you alphabet...it will also introduce you to the many wonderful things you can see and do in London, Ontario Canada!
Hear more about an app that got its voice at Voices.com in this review of London ABCs.
How Do Authors Name Fictitious Characters?
How do authors, copywriters and screenwriters select names for characters?
Are they swayed by trends or is there more thought, perhaps research, that goes into giving a name to a character?
Hear how real authors name their characters and chime in with names of characters you've voiced by commenting on today's VOX Daily.
MyVoice App Helps People Overcome Speech Challenges
Do you know anyone who has lost their voice or finds it hard to communicate verbally?
Toronto-based MyVoice Inc., founded by Alexander Levy, has opened doors for thousands of people suffering from speech and language challenges through the revolutionary mobile app, MyVoice.
After doing a fair bit of reading on the subject, I took the app for a spin to see how it works and learn more about the voices used.
Want to learn more?
Hear about this wonderful app and how it is giving a voice to the voiceless in today's VOX Daily.
Voices of Influence
Do you hear voices?
Voice overs have worked themselves into our daily lives and few pause to consider how our perceptions have been shaped by various characters and advertising campaigns using voice.
Read this article on VOX Daily and then listen to a unique podcast celebrating voice artists and their contributions.
What Makes Cereal Mascots So Effective?
Characters featured on cereal boxes occupy a special place in our culture and endear products to generations of families.
What is it that makes them so effective? Who's your favorite character?
Be sure to comment with your thoughts and join the conversation in today's VOX Daily.
Spam!
Do you suffer from Internet spam messages sent to your email or web platform?
Unlike traditional Spam (pictured at left), spam in the form of comments submitted to the blogs at Voices.com has been rampant.
An increased volume in spam sent to our comments box has prompted this posting, and if you've been commenting on the blog but have not seen your comments published, your comments may have been caught in our spam filter.
Learn more about what we are doing and how you can help in today's VOX Daily.
How Do You Protect Your Hearing?
Just as the voice is key to being able to perform as a voice actor, the ability to hear and to hear well, can make or break a career in audio recording and engineering.
Protecting an engineer's golden ears helps them to work for as long as possible in the field of audio production.
How can this be done?
Hear about some proactive steps the Ontario Institute of Audio Recording Technology is taking to protect the ears of their students and future audio engineers in today's VOX Daily.
The Use Of Silence In Audio Recordings
Is silence always golden?
What about an awkward silence, for instance?
Those of you on-air have certain opinions (and fears!) to be sure of what silence means and I'm curious to learn about how this translates to audio in general.
If you've found a way to use silence to your advantage, I'd love to hear from you!
Join the conversation in today's VOX Daily!
12 Trends of Voice Acting for 2012
Each year, we shed some light on where we believe the voice over industry is headed with a number of observations from the unique perspective of the voice over marketplace.
Significant ground has been broken in many areas and opportunities for voice talent, regarding both scope and prosperity, have increased.
Access your free copy of 12 Trends for 2012 in today's VOX Daily!
Nature's Narrators
Are you fan of nature programs that zoom in on the lives of wild animals?
Who among us hasn't been drawn in by the warm, authoritative tones of Sir David Attenborough or James Earl Jones like a child sitting on their grandfather's knee listening to a story?
Join me in today's VOX Daily as we discuss the voices who've narrated the wonders of the world.
Top 10 VOX Daily Posts From 2011
With 2012 being only a few days in, there's some time to look back on what readers thought were the most interesting articles posted on VOX Daily this past year.
Which posts made the top ten?
What sort of things captivated the hearts and minds of voice talent this year?
Find out!
Lin Parkin, Voices.com Employee of the Month
What a way to end the year!
Today we will take a moment to publicly acknowledge Lin Parkin, Voices.com's most recent Employee of the Month!
Join me in congratulating Lin and learning more about her role at Voices.com.
Will The World End In 2012?
Many people are speculating that the world will end in 2012.
While I don't subscribe to what the Mayans predicted, although I do acknowledge that the world could end at any time, Herb Merriweather shares some predictions of his own as we go from 2011 into 2012.
Join Herb and see if his predictions and hopes for the New Year are doable in today's VOX Daily!
Communicating Messages With Talent And Grace
Has voice acting become more about you and less about your audience?
What happens when we place more significance on ourselves and how we perform than on the message and the people it is intended for?
A number of voice over folks chimed in on this and I hope you enjoy it!
Hear more in today's VOX Daily.
Tips For Controlling Your Voice
Have you been hoping to somehow tame your voice?
An untrained voice, while it can be both beautiful and functional, has the potential to run wild and render you voiceless!
Hear from guest blogger, Blake Sanders, as he shares a number of essential tips for voice control in today's VOX Daily.
Where Did Your Voice Come From?
Does your voice have interesting qualities linked to where you were raised or those around you?
What does your "sound" sound like?
Regardless of where you were brought up or by whom, we can all hear something in our natural speaking voices that tells us where we've come from and can in effect chart the timeline of our vocal heritage.
Where did the sound of your voice come from?
Join the discussion in today's VOX Daily.
Translating An Author's Intent and Innermost Thoughts
Do you write?
Perhaps you blog and decide to share select thoughts with anyone who happens to come across them. Those writings might also lend themselves to be read and subsequently interpreted by voice artists in an audiobook.
Whether you write, read, or do both, I'd love to hear your thoughts on translating an author's innermost thoughts in today's edition of VOX Daily!
Applying Creativity In Unusual Ways
Do you use your vocal, musical or audio production gifts in non-traditional ways?
No doubt you have seen a variety of different if not quirky ways that people express creativity.
Hear about what I do in today's VOX Daily and join the conversation by adding your amazing applications of creativity that help to jazz up the mundane.
So This Is Christmas?
Is this what Christmas looks like?
The popular John Lennon song "Happy Christmas (War Is Over)" speaks to us about how we have not done much for those who are suffering yet fails to share suffering's remedy; the true meaning of Christmas and the hope it brings through perfect love that drives out fear.
What if we were to cease starring in the role of Bystander and not just hope that the coming year is indeed a good one without any fear?
Join me in today's VOX Daily as we explore what this time of year is truly calling us to and how you can make a difference, despite the odds.
Creative Ways To Use VoiceMatch To Your Advantage
The VoiceMatch feature has been in place now for over a month.
How has VoiceMatch affected the way you approach your auditioning opportunities?
Hear about how some talent are using their personalized VoiceMatch scores to their advantage in today's VOX Daily.
CBC Legend Don Brown Visits Voices.com
Last weekend we had the privilege of hosting Don Brown, CBC veteran producer and director of 40+ years, at the Voices.com offices during one of Voice Over London's events.
Over the course of the afternoon, Don shared a wealth of tips regarding voice production and speech, including the one thing he'd improve if he could for on-air talent!
Hear more in today's VOX Daily.
Getting Started in the Recording Booth Featuring Dan Friedman
Are you just starting out in voice over and looking for tips on building your home recording studio?
Need some ideas?
I hope that this posting gives you at least one aha moment or a takeaway you can put into practice today.
Author, audio recording engineer and voice over talent Dan Friedman joined Voices.com for a webinar recently and shared tips that are taught in audio recording schools from his book, "Sound Advice Voiceover From an Audio Engineer's Perspective."
Continue reading to access the webinar recording and be sure to comment on Vox Daily with your thoughts.
How To Manage Your Time
Do you have trouble managing your time?
Are you giving non-urgent tasks priority over urgent responsibilities that need to be done first and can't wait?
How do you manage?
Canadian voice over coach, Deb Munro, shares her tips for how to manage your time in today's VOX Daily.
Homework Assignment Gets Spiffed in the Mix
Not long ago, an eighth grader in London, Ontario Canada lost her homework.
While this isn't uncommon per se, the project itself was unique, so much so that after her USB stick was discovered, something simply amazing took shape in a professional audio recording studio.
Want to know what happened? Find out in today's VOX Daily!
3 Ways To Get Noticed At Voices.com
Want to get noticed at Voices.com but don't know where to start?
Have a lot of talent but not a lot of attention?
If you're trying to get more traffic to your profile at our marketplace, you'll want to read the tips in this article.
Although they may seem obvious, you'd be amazed by how instrumental these three things can be when getting your voice heard.
Why Are There So Many Languages?
We know that there are hundreds of languages spoken in our world today, but where did all they come from?
Why are there so many?
Join me in a conversation about how our languages came to be and why it pays to speak more than one language in today's VOX Daily.
Making Choices
Do you make choices for other people?
In a business that is full of choices from what to audition for to whom to cast, sometimes we need to take a moment and consider how our choices affect other people...and also how not giving a choice can impact you and the person you've made the decision for.
Read this post and then join the conversation in today's VOX Daily.
Just Voicing To Amuse Yourself?
For some people, voice acting is merely a hobby. For others, its a passion that is being developed with each syllable spoken and exploration of their voice.
If you were to stop now, would you miss out on a career that's spoken of for centuries?
Find out more in today's Vox Daily.
Puppy in My Pocket Voiceover Casting Call
Are you an actor in Los Angeles?
Do you want to do cartoon voices?
This is your chance to be heard and discovered!
Voices.com and Resnick Interactive Group are pleased to bring you this exclusive casting call for Puppy in My Pocket.
Be sure to read more about this opportunity and how you can get involved in today's VOX Daily.
Positive Feedback Indicators on Auditions
How do you identify positive feedback regarding auditions you submit?
At Voices.com there are a number of ways you can measure feedback from clients using the site to hire talent but we'd love to hear your thoughts on what this kind of feedback means to you.
Share your thoughts now by commenting on today's Vox Daily!
Andrew Amos, Employee of the Month
We're pleased to announce that Voices.com recently instituted a program honouring our staff as Employee of the Month!
The team at Voices.com thought it would be wonderful to profile each month's Employee of the Month in recognition of their hard work and dedication to serving our customers.
Andrew Amos is the first official Voices.com Employee of the Month and I'm privileged to share more about him with you in today's VOX Daily.
Do You Have What It Takes? Discover 5 Voice Director Expectations
Once you've booked the job, they say it's all gravy...but sometimes, it's when the work actually begins!
Casting director Todd Resnick of Resnick Interactive shares tips on how to impress your client and lay the groundwork for future work opportunities by following some simple instructions.
Find out what a director looks for in today's VOX Daily!
How To Price Projects Exceeding 100,000 Words
Do you ever wonder about how you should quote for projects with enormous word counts?
We've worked out a formula you can use for preparing quotes for clients when a script's word count exceeds 100,000 words.
Take a look at what we've shared and also let us know what the word count of the longest script you've ever recorded was!
Join the conversation now!
How To Make VoiceMatch Work For You
Are you interested in increasing your VoiceMatch scores?
How about getting more opportunities at Voices.com?
I've compiled some tips on how you can not only see more auditions coming your way but to also be better matched.
Find out more in today's VOX Daily!
Why Winning Auditions Are Seldom Made Public
"Can we hear winning auditions and see how much they got paid?"
We've been asked that question more times than I can count! The answer is always the same, though. At Voices.com we do not provide talent with access to the voice sample or winning talent's quote.
While that's our answer, I interviewed a number of casting directors, agents and clients to ask what their thoughts were on the matter to give you a more well rounded view of this topic.
Read perspectives from people who hire in today's VOX Daily.
To Thine Own Self Be True
Many people tend to separate their work from their personal life and guiding principles in the name of acting.
Does the art of "acting" excuse compromising on morals or violating personal beliefs?
Acting doesn't have to mean leaving your morals at the door...in fact, acting can mean bringing them through the door and into the studio.
Read more in today's VOX Daily.
The 10 Week VO Holiday Challenge
Are you looking for a reason to give to a worthy cause?
How about recording a voiceover and donating your work to a charity or an organization whose work you support?
Find out how you can help make stretch a charitable organizations' dollar a bit further by participating in Terry Daniel's 10 Week VO Holiday Challenge.
How a Revised VoiceMatch Will Help Talent
After a dialogue of nearly 80 comments, we have decided to change one aspect of how VoiceMatch works.
We listened to you and reconsidered showing clients the VoiceMatch score in audition responses. As a result, the VoiceMatch scores will not be displayed in talent responses.
Hear more in today's VOX Daily.
The Animation Voice Demo: 6 Key Elements
Does your character demo have what it takes to get the attention of casting directors and agents?
Want to know how to go from no character demo to having something you can shop around?
Melissa Altro of Voice Pro Studio shares six key elements of an animation voice demo in today's VOX Daily.
New Icons at Voices.com
You might have noticed some icons on the jobs board and in your Answered folder that weren't there last week!
We're working hard to make your experience better and trust that these additions will do just that.
Curious to learn more?
Find out what these icons represent and why they were added in today's VOX Daily.
Coming Soon... VoiceMatch
Do you audition more than you'd like to?
Having any trouble deciding which job postings are best matched with your individual abilities and skills?
Voices.com is releasing a new feature called VoiceMatch that will be beneficial to both talent and clients using the site.
To learn more about VoiceMatch be sure to read this post!
Apple iPhone 4S Siri Voice
The new Apple iPhone 4S release includes a new feature and companion...Siri!
Who couldn't do with a personal assistant at times, especially one that listens and helps to decipher what you might need in greater detail.
Hear more about what Siri is and how it works in today's VOX Daily.
Voice Acting in Video Games Workshop at Voices.com
During the month of November, Londoners will have the opportunity to experience digital interactive gaming as never before!
With a Voice Over London workshop on voice acting in video games and DIG London coming up, things are going to get pretty exciting for gamers and talent alike.
I hope you can join us at our upcoming Voice Over London workshop featuring guest speaker George Spanos, a sound designer from Digital Extremes.
A Casting Director's Tips For Getting The Part
Are you looking for an edge when it comes to booking gigs?
What do casting directors look for?
Is there anything you can do?
Casting director Todd Resnick of Resnick Interactive shares his perspective on how you can wow decision makers in today's VOX Daily.
How Character Voices and Accents Can Get You Noticed
Have you ever made a character voice over demo before?
One of the trends I've seen over the last few years is talent recording a video of themselves performing their accents in succession without any editing. The wow factor is pretty high on those videos and a lot of attention comes their way if the video is interesting enough.
See a few examples of how you can bring your character voices to life using video and audio in today's VOX Daily.
Refer a Friend, Get a Free Month at Voices.com
Have you been looking for a way to refer people to Voices.com that gives you something in return?
We've just launched a referral program that gives you one free month of service for every new customer you refer to Voices.com!
During the first month of our new program, you will also have a chance to win an Apple iPad.
Interested in learning more? Read this edition of VOX Daily for details on how you can benefit.
How To Volunteer as a Reader For The Blind and Partially Sighted
Have you been looking for a way to give back?
Interested in narrating audiobooks?
Why not consider narrating audiobooks for the blind and partially sighted?
Canadian vision health charity, CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind), offers a program that voice talent or people in general can apply for to become narrators for CNIB.
Learn more in this article on VOX Daily.
Ultimate Dog Tease a Creative Take On Dubbing
Last weekend I was introduced to a video called "The Ultimate Dog Tease" by someone who came by my booth at Culture Days.
After taking out my trusty iPhone and booting up the YouTube app, I could see why this video has amassed over 63 million views!
What can The Ultimate Dog Tease teach us?
Find out more in today's VOX Daily!
Tips For Succeeding On Voices.com
Got any tips on how to book voiceover jobs at Voices.com?
Professional voice talent Peter K. O'Connell is dipping his toe into the site for the first time and we thought it would be nice to give him a few tips to help him find his way and succeed!
If you have any tips to share with Peter, be sure to add them and join the conversation in today's VOX Daily.
Voices.com Presents "Is That My Voice?" During Culture Days
What are you doing this weekend?
Voices.com is inviting the public to step up to the mic in our hometown!
Londoners can try being a voice actor for a day at the Stoney Creek Branch Library on October 1st as part of the 2011 Culture Days in London, ON.
Learn more in today's VOX Daily.
What's Your Most Memorable Voiceover Gig?
When you think about all of the voiceover jobs you have done over the years, what comes to mind as being the most memorable?
I asked a number of people this question and received a variety of interesting responses.
Hear about some memorable work and share memories of your own in today's edition of VOX Daily!
6 Ways To Help Prevent Vision Loss
Did you know that 75% of vision loss is preventable?
While this sounds like music to our ears, you do need to take steps to protect your eyesight.
Hear about what you can do to fight this battle on a personal level with tips from Canada's vision health charity, CNIB.
Voices.com Send a Thank You Feature
Did you know that clients have the ability to "send a thank you" from the page where they review talent auditions?
Maybe you've been a recipient of one!
This feature has been in place now for a number of months and it's always a pleasure to hear about how improvements to the site are affecting our customers.
Find out more about how these Thank Yous work in today's VOX Daily.
Harlan Hogan's Porta-Booth Pro® Up For an Award
Are you a fan of Harlan Hogan's Porta-Booth Pro®?
I just received word that the product is named as a Top 75 Nominee for the 10th annual Chicago Innovation Awards!
Learn more about this achievement and show your support for Harlan Hogan in today's VOX Daily.
CNIB SENSEsation unGala in London on September 30, 2011
It's nearly time to get fabulous and funky!
For the last month and a bit we have been providing glimpses into an upcoming social event in our hometown as their Official Social Media Sponsor.
The party is next Friday and we're jazzed to share more details!
Hear more about the unGala and what participating means to us in today's VOX Daily.
Voices.com Opening A Grand Success
The Grand Opening of Voices.com was a wonderful event that couldn't have gone much better than it did!
I wanted to share some of our photos and memories from the party along with our gratitude.
Take a look at some highlights and also hear more about what we're up to next in today's VOX Daily.
New Profiles Now Live at Voices.com
Have you noticed a new look at Voices.com?
Talent profiles at Voices.com have been newly improved and are working harder for you!
Find out more in today's VOX Daily.
8 Reasons Why You Should Host a Party For Your Business
Everyone likes a party, right?
Friday September 16th, 2011 marks the date of Voices.com's Launch Party in celebration of our company's expansion and move into downtown London.
Hear about our preparations and gather ideas on how you can host a party or open house to attract new clients and rekindle relationships with existing clients.
The Winner of the Audio Recording Gear Review Contest
After receiving and reading nearly 90 entries for the contest calling for reviews of audio recording equipment and software, we've finally found a winner!
Suffice to say, you're hearing from one very tired yet informed blogger! I don't think I've ever seen so many reviews on so many different pieces of equipment and it's no secret that our peeps love their gear.
Who won the contest?
Find out who it is and why they love their gear in today's VOX Daily.
The Benefits of Being a Polyglot
Do you speak three or more languages fluently?
When it comes to being a voice talent, having multiple languages at your disposal opens more doors of opportunity with the ability to service a wider range of clients.
If you're a polyglot, be sure to join the conversation in today's VOX Daily!
Freelancer Tips For Working From Home With Kids
Do you run a business based out of your home?
The Internet has opened many doors including the ability for freelancers to work from the comfort and privacy of their own homes. That being said, many freelancers are parents with preschool aged and home schooled children!
Hear from some professionals who have found a way to make working from home (with kids!) work for them in today's VOX Daily.
Silencing The Voice Of Your Inner Critic
Voice actors are often creating voices and sometimes, they even hear them in their heads!
Most people can relate to being their own worst critic, perhaps even having an "inner critic" that picks them apart.
Find out how you can silence that inner critic and get a move on to focus on the things that really matter in today's VOX Daily!
Voices.com To Ride The Heart & Stroke Big Bike!
Did you know every 7 minutes someone dies from heart disease and stroke in Canada?
A number of us from Voices.com will be participating in the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Big Bike Event, cycling to raise funds for a worthy cause.
Will you support us? Learn more about how you can help in today's VOX Daily!
Does Your Voice Save Lives?
Ever thought about what you read can help save lives?
The way you interpret a script can make a difference in how people perceive the vital information you're expressing in your read.
If you've been able to convey critical information that you feel has saved lives, be sure to comment on today's VOX Daily!
Improving Your Vision To See Scripts More Clearly
Are you having difficulty seeing the scripts you read?
More and more people are experiencing varying degrees of vision loss as they age. Voice artists are not immune!
Susan Manhire, a voice talent and Optician, joins us today in this guest blog post highlighting tips for talent who wear glasses and for what can be done to maintain the best vision possible in today's VOX Daily.
The Sweetest Sounds in the World
What would you say are the most wonderful sounds you've ever heard?
Does hearing anything in particular lift your spirits?
Whether it's music, the voice of a loved one, or birds who sing sweetly in the trees I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Share them today on this VOX Daily article.
Where There's Struggle, There's Life
Do you ever feel like all you can do is take things one day at a time?
I've found that to be true for me as we continue to try to find a balance and adjust to life with a baby at home.
After you've read this piece, join the discussion in today's VOX Daily by leaving a comment!
Recording Artists Are Storytellers
When does a story truly begin to be told?
Xavier Paul shares his perspective regarding how stories can be told and realities created using only the human voice when voice artists realize the author's intent using clues supplied in the script and through characterization.
Learn more in today's VOX Daily.
A Narrator's Secret Confession
In the midst of telling other peoples' stories, narrators can lose themselves both in the script and in knowing who they are apart from the stories they tell.
Can you relate?
Guest blogger and audiobook narrator Tim Lundeen explores this topic through his secret confession in today's VOX Daily.
Voices.com Fall 2011 Preview
Today, you're getting a sneak peek of the new profile design.
What's changed and what has stayed the same?
Find out in today's VOX Daily!
VOX Daily Surprise
You might have been wondering why there have been so many guest articles as of late on VOX Daily.
In the spirit of being open with my readers, I thought I'd give you a quick update on what (or I should say who) has been keeping me offline.
Find out more in today's VOX Daily!
Voices.com Sponsors CNIB SENSEsation2011 UnGala
Has vision loss affected your life or that of someone you love?
Voices.com is serving as the social media sponsor for CNIB's annual fund-raising event the SENSEsation2011 UnGala whose aim is "to ignite the senses and bring out the funky and fabulous in everyone."
Voices On The Radio
When you're driving around town with the radio on, have you ever heard one of your colleagues either on air or as the voice artist on commercials or station imaging or station identification?
Recently, I happened to hear two people that I knew and am curious to learn of if this is something you keep your ears out for too!
Join the discussion by adding a comment.
Tips For Researching And Developing Characters
A short time ago we took a look at how you can differentiate between characters in a script when reading an audiobook or multi-character project.
In today's VOX Daily, guest blogger John McLain offers his perspective on how you can get to know the characters featured in a book before you start the recording process.
Improvements Made To Voices.com's Job Invitation Emails
You might have noticed that some of the emails you are receiving from Voices.com with regard to invitations to jobs have a new look!
Today's VOX Daily will discuss what has changed and how these changes will benefit you.
Never Give Up!
Feeling the least bit discouraged?
Take heart, my friend!
Herb Merriweather shares a number of statements that when delivered with gusto will make an enormous impact on your outlook, performance and spirit!
Strike your best heroic pose and prepare to be inspired in today's VOX Daily.
Reaching The On-Demand Generation Through Advertising
Have you noticed just how easy it is for young people to dismiss advertisements?
Just this morning I heard my kids say "There are too many advertisements!" when they were waiting for a feature film to start playing. Who's to fault them? As young parents who remember using the Internet for the first time as teenagers, we even skip ads if and when we can.
While previous generations were able to tolerate advertisements in exchange for quality entertainment, the consumers of tomorrow are growing up online where selection is huge and mainly free with immediate gratification often achieved by the power of a click.
Just how can advertisers and those they work with reach and engage digital natives?
Find out in today's VOX Daily.
13 Things NOT To Do In Your Audition
Are your auditions really putting your best foot forward?
Do you wonder if something you may be doing could be holding you back from getting the gig?
Deb Munro shares 13 things to avoid when auditioning whether in person or online through the voice over marketplace.
How Strategic Partnerships Can Get You More VO Work
What can you do to help bring more business your way?
Have you ever thought about leveraging the networks of other business professionals?
Dana Detrick explores the concept of strategic partnerships and the sort of businesses voice talent can align themselves with to get more work in today's VOX Daily.
How To Keep Characters Straight When Reading Multiple Roles
When you're reading for a project that involves multiple voices and drastically different characterizations, how do you keep all of those voices straight while maintaining a steady read as each word dances off the page?
Hear about several techniques that professional voice actors use to distinguish character voices when reading in today's VOX Daily.
Using Images To Make Voiceovers More Believable
How much research do you do before you record a script?
There are many different kinds of research that one might engage in to better understand a voiceover project including text analysis, corporate culture and historical context to name a few.
In today's VOX Daily, we're going to focus on how a visual image can help to not only inform your read but make it more believable.
Little Known Facts About E.T.'s Voice
Any movie buffs out there?
Recently I heard some interesting facts about the voice artist who recorded the voice of E.T. in Steven Spielberg's film E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (1982).
Who provided the voice? Why'd they get chosen? How much were they paid?
Find out in today's VOX Daily!
Two Skype Clinics Offered by Edge Studio
Have you ever been directed or completed a voiceover job via Skype?
New technologies can be intimidating but there are classes being offered on how to record and deliver voice over work via Skype.
Learn more about two upcoming webinars that you can participate in taught by trainers at Edge Studio.
Do Voice Talent Retire?
Have you ever considered retirement and what that might look like for a professional voice talent?
Most people retire from their labors after a certain amount of time, and although this isn't as common for creative types, it is worth thinking about.
In today's VOX Daily, we'll take a look at some reasons for why a voice artist might retire and also discuss how you might go about it.
The 7 Most Common Bilingual Voiceover Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
When clients hire talent to record bilingual voiceovers, what should they be taking into account?
Finding the right professional to record is of the utmost importance when presenting a target audience with accurately communicated information in their native language.
As a voice over artist, what do you need to know in order to provide the best service possible to those hiring?
Rosi Amador, a professional voice over artist who speaks fluent, accent free English and Spanish, joins us today in her guest article about the 7 most common bilingual voiceover mistakes and how you as a voice artist can avoid them.
The Real King's Speech
Many famous leaders and media personalities have risen above speech impediments including Moses who led the Israelites out of Egyptian captivity in the Exodus, modern day American actor James Earl Jones, and as you may have gathered, King George VI of Great Britain (pictured at right).
In this article, we'll take a look at the kind of challenges people with speech impediments encounter and also provide a venue for discussing how to overcome stuttering and other issues that make speaking difficult.
The First Commercial VoiceOver Ever?
When was the first commercial voiceover recorded?
An article was recently published via the San Francisco Chronicle proposing that the very first commercial recording ever made relates to a project Thomas Edison worked on.
Just what was this invention?
Find out in today's VOX Daily!
Can Voiceovers Hinder Business?
Have you ever heard a voiceover that actually did a company, and more importantly their customers, a disservice?
A voiceover shouldn't make doing business harder...right?
Today's VOX Daily takes a look at how voiceovers, if recorded poorly and used improperly, can take a toll on business and render the initial goal ineffectual.
Ideas For Protecting Your Voice When Gardening
Have you been doing a lot of gardening, landscaping or hiking in the great outdoors?
While gardening and exercise is a wonderful thing but have you given any thought to protecting your instrument when working out of doors?
Do you have any proven strategies to share?
Hear a couple of excellent tips for how you can do more to serve and protect your voice in today's VOX Daily.
Theophilus Thistle Tongue Twister
Do your articulators need a workout?
Are you fresh out of ideas for vocal warmups?
Check out this cool tongue twister that was brought to my attention called "Theophilus Thistle" in today's VOX Daily.
Outsourcing Audio Editing
Are you finding that audio editing is becoming a hindrance to marketing yourself and recording work for your clients?
Many voice talent are outsourcing audio editing to capable audio engineers who can get the job done for a reasonable price and in a timely fashion working half a world away.
To learn more, check out today's VOX Daily!
What Has Losing Your Voice Taught You?
Have you ever lost your voice? Ever been struck down by laryngitis or a more aggressive vocal disorder?
While most of us take our voices for granted, a prolonged lull in conversation so to speak can be quite telling and may provide us with greater insight that would not have been accessible to us otherwise.
How has the loss of your voice or dramatic change in your ability to vocalize affected you?
Share your stories in today's VOX Daily!
How Your Eyes Help You Interpret A Script
Have you ever stopped to think about just how greatly we rely upon our eyesight?
Although we can pick a script apart and analyze it using a variety of constructive tools, there's nothing quite like letting your natural line of vision rule the day and see where it instinctively leads based upon years of acquired knowledge and practical experience as a reader.
Voice over coach Bob Cook shares an illustration of how our vision and manner of reading deciphers and anticipates changes in vocal inflection, timing and cadence in today's VOX Daily.
How Do You Talk About Voiceovers?
The Art of the Voiceover: MyFoxTWINCITIES.com
Voice talent and coach Terry Daniel recently had the opportunity to share some wisdom and practical knowledge on a television interview about entering the business of voice overs.
How do you explain what your job is, why it's important and how it impacts others?
Share your insight and tips in today's VOX Daily!
What's The Best Voice Over Job You've Woken Up To?
Have you ever made money in your sleep?
Waking up to learn that you've got an amazing voice over job waiting for you can be an exciting thing. Recently, I heard one such story from a member of the Voices.com community and am able to share it with you.
What's the best voice over gig you've awoken to and why do you think you got it?
Be sure to share your thoughts as a comment on today's VOX Daily!
Interview with Beatboxing Phenom Mike Tompkins
YouTube sensation Mike Tompkins has been making waves with his natural talent and unique musical interpretations of popular songs.
How does this Canadian artist do it? Where does he get his inspiration? Find out in this Voices.com interview on VOX Daily!
Voices.com Answers is Live!
When doing some research lately, it became quite clear that people love to get information from their peers and industry personalities who they trust.
Yesterday, Voices.com launched a new service called Voices.com Answers.
If you've ever wished for a virtual water cooler to discuss your business opportunities, technical challenges and the development of your craft, this is it!
To learn more, continue reading this post.
How Do You Amplify Your Voice?
There are many ways to make your voice sound louder whether it be through vocal acrobatics and projection or use of technology.
What's your favorite way to get loud?
Be sure to comment with your signal chain and projection tips!
Narrating Fairy Tales A Good Niche For Voice Artists
Are you interested in getting into audiobooks?
How about taking some baby steps before embarking on a 3-week long recording marathon?
Learn how starting out with short stories such as timeless fairy tales can help you cut your teeth on audiobook narration, recording and editing.
Cool Audio Landmarks and Monuments
Have you noticed any landmarks relating to voice over or audio production?
I happened to see this image on a friend's Facebook page and decided to learn a bit more about it.
How To Research Job Opportunities Before Auditioning
Do you audition for every job that comes your way or do you only audition for opportunities that you'd be proud to associate with your name and business?
Some due diligence on your part, especially with brands you are unfamiliar with, can help inform you beforehand when making the decision to audition or not. Understanding how a voice over can impact you personally should factor into this process.
In today's VOX Daily, we'll be discussing the significance of the work you choose to do and provide you with tools to discern opportunities that may prove invaluable to your career.
Interview with NASA Prelaunch Voice, Jim Conlan
The NASA shuttle Atlantis will lift-off on July 8, 2011. This is the last mission for quite some time and is the 135th since the fleet began launching into orbit in 1981.
Have you ever given any thought to the preparation necessary for a space mission?
Houston-based voice artist Jim Conlan has served as the prelaunch voice for NASA since 2007. As this era of space exploration for draws to a close, Conlan shares his story and most memorable moments in this interview on VOX Daily.
Fathers Celebrated Around The World
Father's Day is celebrated by different cultures everywhere.
In Canada, the US, Japan, India, Africa, the United Kingdom and many other countries across the globe Father's Day is celebrated on the 3rd Sunday in June.
Today's Vox Daily pays special tribute to all the Dads who have helped shape our lives and cultures.
Insights on Corporate Narration from Voice Over London
Are you interested in narrating for businesses, organizations and educational institutions?
Voice Over London, a Voices.com sponsored networking and meetup group, met last weekend and delved into many facets of narration for businesses and have some takeaways and tips to share!
Find out what we learned and discussed in today's VOX Daily.
How To Soundproof Your Home Recording Studio
Not sure about your where your studio stands in terms of soundproofing?
From time to time, we'll receive emails from members who are concerned with the quality of their recordings due to noise, echoes or slap-back.
Today's VOX Daily will give you some tips for what you can do as well as point you in the direction of coaches and consultants who are versed in this area of treating your home recording studio and then some.
The Canada Post Lockout And How It May Affect You
If you're in Canada or take note of what goes on here via the news, you likely know that there have been rolling postal strikes in our nation for the past couple of weeks. Our post services, as of today, have temporarily suspended operation in terms of the sorting and delivery of mail.
While this may not seem relevant to those outside of Canada, it's important to realize that anything you are sending or receiving that goes to or from Canada will take longer to get to you.
Read more about how this might affect you in today's VOX Daily.
Booking Behind The Mic: Why Microphones Are Every Actor's Ally
Can the microphone tell your age?
Unlike actors who perform on camera, voice artists are provided with a unique opportunity to vocally "shape-shift" and also disguise their biological age by manipulating their voices and employing techniques that make them sound younger or older than they truly are.
Has voice acting set your career off into uncharted waters when compared with your on camera experience?
Let us know by commenting on today's VOX Daily!
How Focused Are You?
Has your ability to multi-task affected your ability to remain focused and retain important information?
This can happen at home or at work. When you work from home, watch out!
Terry Daniel shows us what can happen we we stop paying attention to details and run full-steam ahead on the "I'm doing everything (but not anything particularly well) train" in today's VOX Daily.
Voices.com Presents at PodCamp London 2011
Will you be going to PodCamp London (Canada) on Saturday June 11, 2011?
Voices.com is sponsoring PodCamp London and will also serve as presenters speaking on the topics of social media and search engine optimization.
If you can't make the event in person, be sure to catch the live stream! More details to follow in today's VOX Daily.
Is The Narrator of a TV Show Always the Star?
Are the narrators of television programs, be they sitcoms or dramas, always the stars of the show?
In a recent conversation, it was suggested that whoever narrates the show is generally the person whose character dominates the series. There is certainly a lot of evidence that validates this assertion that we'll explore in just a minute.
Do lead characters on TV shows always serve as their series' narrators?
What do you think?
Have your say in today's VOX Daily!
Why Businesses Should Have A Pro Voice On Their Voicemail
Do companies from big corporations to independent practitioners realize how important the voice they choose for their telephone system is?
Voice talent and speech coach Jill Tarnoff shares her experiences calling in to book appointments with a healthcare provider and how the voice on an automated telephone system recording sets tone for the remainder of a call and speaking with a real person.
How To Replace or Delete Demos on Voices.com
Is your demo showing its age?
Has your voice changed or are you reinventing how you present yourself?
There are any number of reasons why you might choose to update a demo or to stop using it altogether.
This tutorial will show you how to replace a demo and still maintain your Listens count at Voices.com.
Yakkin' With Yakko
As you may have heard, prolific voice actor Rob Paulsen is now sharing a generation's worth of experience with the industry. Additionally, he is also providing unique insight through private coaching via Skype, by phone or in person in Los Angeles.
As I write, I'm listening to Rob Paulsen's new weekly podcast called "Talkin Toons with Rob Paulsen" available for free in iTunes. Rob has a lot of ideas and dreams for this chapter in his career which he details in his first podcast running 20 minutes.
When I heard Rob was coaching, I knew I had to draw attention to that fact! To hear more about what it is like to work with Rob, hear a first-hand account from voice talent Lisa Biggs who studied with the legend earlier this week.
Mario Teaches Typing 1992
Do you remember this computer game from 1992?
While the video plays for about 10 minutes, it will only take a matter of seconds for you to be flooded with Mario Bros. memories and feel the nostalgia.
Why am I posting about this? Find out in today's VOX Daily!
June Is Audiobook Month!
Do you love audiobooks?
Then join APA members, narrators, authors and fans as we spread the word about audiobooks. Throughout the month of June tell everyone you know what makes audiobooks so great!
Learn more in today's Vox Daily.
Voices.com Has Moved, New Hours Of Operation
The Voices.com team has successfully moved to our new location! Our Internet is hooked up, the phones are working and we're ready to serve you.
Something else to cheer about is our new extended hours!
Learn more about how we're going the extra mile for you in today's VOX Daily.
Voices.com Is Moving On Wednesday June 1, 2011
As you may have heard, Voices.com will be moving to our new offices in downtown London, Ontario Canada!
We appreciate your support and are grateful that we can move into a new venue that will help us to grow our team and serve you even better.
In today's post, I'll be providing information about how you'll be able to reach us during this time and also help set the expectations for the next several days.
How To Tell If Someone Has Been Hired at Voices.com
You might have noticed a new column called "Your Status" that has been recently added to how you can view jobs on the Voices.com jobs board.
This posting will help you to understand why this column has been added as well as go over the meanings of all the statuses that a job posting passes through in the hiring process through payment and completion.
Are Cold Reads Really "Cold"?
A cold read is usually defined as reading a piece of copy that you've never seen before... while that may be true, just how cold is a trained voice actor and interpreter of the written word?
Guest blogger Tim Lundeen explores this question and challenges us to rethink how we perceive reading copy aloud that has never graced us before in today's VOX Daily.
Polishing and Promoting Your Voices.com Profile
Over the past several days, we've taken a look at how you can prime your profile and make it the best that it can be.
Now that you've got a profile that's promotion-worthy, it's time to start actively directing traffic to your Voices.com profile!
Find out how you can do that in today's VOX Daily.
How Testimonials Build Trust Online
When you shop online, what do you find helps to build trust before making a purchase?
By thinking like a consumer, you'll be able to add a significant amount of trust through your words, testimonials and feedback ratings and reviews.
Learn more about how you can create a glowing first impression of what you offer and how others perceive your work in this third installment of our Voices.com Profile Basics 101 series.
Want More People To Hear Your Demo? Here's How!
The purpose of a voice over demo is to show prospective clients what you can do.
That being said, are you doing as much as you possibly can to attract people to find your demo and then click play?
Learn how to position your demo so that it is listened to by a client hiring voice talent!
Making Your Voices.com Profile More Marketable
Do you know how your Voices.com profile appears to prospective clients?
You'd be surprised by how many talent add content to their profile and don't take a look at how the information displays on the site.
If you're one of these people, (or even if you're not!), this article will give you some insight on how evaluate your profile and fine tune it to better attract customers online.
Join me for this short series on the ins and outs of your Voices.com profile in today's VOX Daily.
Why Reading Dr. Seuss is Harder Than You Think
Sometimes the simplest texts are the most profound (and challenging)!
If you've ever read a book by Theodor Geisel (Dr. Seuss), you know just how much of a vocal workout his books can be when read aloud.
Running the gamut of Seuss classics to lesser known (yet still brilliant) works, nothing less than skill-testing selections were on the menu at our get together.
Hear about five unique experiences from people who put their Dr. Seuss skills to the test at our most recent Voice Over London meeting earlier this month.
Voices.com Participates At Career Day For High School Students
Voices.com was a featured exhibitor at SLOME, an event geared toward students in London and the surrounding area in grades seven through twelve.
With over 3000 students registered to attend throughout the day, the atmosphere at the Western Fairgrounds in the Agriplex Building was exciting to say the least and our team met with hundreds of students.
Hear more about our experience exhibiting at SLOME and what it meant to us in today's VOX Daily.
The Voice
Have you heard of a television program called "The Voice" airing on NBC?
While many talent shows for singers have come and go, none that I'm aware of have evaluated talent based solely upon how someone sounds until now.
Are Christina Aguilera and friends taking a leaf out of a voice casting notebook?
Learn more about how The Voice resonates with casting in the world of voiceovers in today's VOX Daily.
How To Find Public Domain Works To Record
How do you know if you can record a published work or if it is off limits?
Most talent are aware of copyright issues but not all are confident in identifying which pieces of copy are safe to record without acquiring a license or paying royalties.
In today's VOX Daily, we're going to explore ways to determine what copy is available to you in the public domain when recording voice over demos or audiobooks.
3 Tips for Creating Your Own Buzz
Have you ever wondered what publicists do exactly?
When you're freelancing, hiring a public relations firm or a publicist may not be the most feasible option for obtaining media attention so managing your public image falls into your own hands.
Get three tips for creating your own publicity in today's Vox Daily.
Do You Find Meaning In Your Work
Last month I received an email asking for permission to quote something from this blog in a book regarding my definition of work and the significant role work plays in enabling us to use our gifts.
Do you find meaning in your work as a voice over talent?
Add your own contribution by commenting on today's VOX Daily!
How To Take Care Of Your Voice
Your voice is an instrument that needs to be taken care of properly which means warming it up and maintaining your vocal apparatus. Think of your voice as a vehicle for the words just as your car is a literal means of getting around.
In order to get those words out and share them convincingly, vocal preparation, maintenance of the voice and overall health considerations are a must.
How do you keep your voice in tiptop shape?
Share your vocal warmup and care routines by commenting on today's VOX Daily!
How Do You Stay Motivated and Self-Assured In Your Work?
Do you find it difficult being completely self-reliant in your work?
You're not alone.
It can be tough when you don't receive feedback on your work but that's the reality many freelancers and independent business people face.
Let's explore how successful business people are self-assured and how that key attribute can help freelancers stay motivated and on the road to success.
Voices.com Helps Give Talent The Edge Studio Advantage
Are you looking to further develop your voice over career through education?
Voices.com is working together with Edge Studio to bring you a variety of courses under the banners of Acting and Performance, Business and Marketing, and Technology that can help bring talent to the next level, regardless of where you are in your career.
To learn more about what is being offered course wise and also about a special discount for Voices.com members, be sure to read on!
Prince William and Kate Middleton's Royal Wedding
Will you be watching the royal wedding?
This question is being asked more and more as the date draws nigh. Many of the people I have spoken with will either be watching live or intend to catch the highlights afterward on television or via the Internet.
That being said, a number of people will be listening, even working behind the scenes to bring the royal wedding to the people.
Have you noticed any special voiceovers either promoting or narrating copy related to the royal wedding? Share your thoughts in today's VOX Daily!
Dan McKeague Outquacks Them All For Aflac
There's a new voice quacking up a storm as the Aflac Duck!
After a month of searching that yielded 12,500 live and online auditions, Aflac has found their new voice and chosen a Minnesota-based, married father of three to replace comedian Gilbert Gottfried.
How did this all transpire?
Hear more about how Dan McKeague got the gig in today's VOX Daily!
Oscars Petition Gains Momentum And A Voice!
In a world where an Oscar category for voiceover performance is nonexistent, five voice artists pour out their talent in an effort to make history!
If you think that voice actors who perform in animated films should be formally recognized with an award by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, be sure to share this page and also spread the PSA!
Learn more about this movement now in today's VOX Daily.
What Are Voice Over Effects?
Ever had to scream, sneeze or laugh for a voice over job?
When you get a script, sometimes there are extra vocal bits that you need to include aside from the copy presented, particularly in entertainment.
Learn more about the kind of work that's out there for voice over professionals in today's VOX Daily.
How Text-To-Speech Gave Roger Ebert His Voice Back
After losing the use of his voice following surgery for jaw cancer several years ago, media personality and film critic Roger Ebert has found new ways to communicate and be heard.
Learn more in today's VOX Daily.
Weird Al Yankovic Gets Serious About Audiobooks
You might have heard that there are now book trailers online with excerpts read from books promoting print publications.
Always one to follow the trends in pop culture, Alfred Matthew Yankovic, more widely known as "Weird Al" Yankovic, has also produced a trailer to promote his new children's book, "When I Grow Up" published by HarperCollins Children's. Yankovic has also narrated his book and published his latest work via HarperAudio.
After The Classes: Where Do I Go From Here?
Have you recently completed voice over classes?
Are you asking yourself "Now what?"
Many voice talent who are new to the industry tell us that after they've developed the basic performance skills with a voice over coach they have no idea where to go from there in order to develop their careers.
In today's Vox Daily, we'll explore what to do next...
How To Create Voices Without Audio References
What do you do when you need to voice a historical figure but there are no known recordings of their voice to reference?
1877 marked the first audio recording, therefore persons of note at or before that time were likely not captured on phonograph cylinders, on wax records in the 1890s or even through electronic recording in the 1920s.
So, how do you create a voice using clues from the past?
Learn how to start thinking like a vocal detective in today's VOX Daily.
3 Great Animation Voice Acting Resources
Last night I came across an interesting article while searching for an online version of the Yogi Bear story.
This article was helpful and also served as an entry point for discovering a wealth of other pieces written about cartoon shows from the past complete with insightful commentary regarding historical facts and cultural context.
In today's VOX Daily, you'll discover a number of resources that you can draw upon when researching the history of voice acting in animation.
Encouraging Words for Today's Working Voice Actor
How much work is out there? Is there truly enough for everyone?
For every advertised voice over job that you see publicly, so many more exist off the radar or outside of your view!
If you've been waiting to hear someone say that there's voice over work out there to be done, and more than you thought, you're going to enjoy today's VOX Daily.
Dialing It Back: The Business/Corporate Voice Over
Are you in the habit of letting the characters and voices in your head run wild?
What happens when you need to restrain those characters and prepare for a more corporate read?
Herb Merriweather shares some ideas on how you can manage and enjoy your less spontaneous reads while engaging the intended audience in today's VOX Daily.
10 Voice Tips for Women to be Heard More
Vox Daily welcomes guest blogger Lora Cain!
Communicating effectively can be a challenge for both men and women, however, women have a unique set of challenges to overcome.
Lora offers up ten practical tips that will help women to be heard more in both their personal and professional lives.
Learn more in today's Vox Daily.
Oscars: Is It Time To Introduce a Voice Over Category?
A few weeks ago we posed this question on Voices.com's Facebook page and received some incredible feedback.
That got our wheels turning.
Do you think there ought to be categories at the Oscars that recognize voice actors for their roles and contributions to film?
Perhaps the time has come!
Learn more about how you can help out by reading today's Vox Daily.
Voice Over Times: How To Submit Your News
In 2007 Voices.com launched a news site for the voice over industry called Voice Over Times. Due to the rapid growth at Voices.com we had to discontinue publishing at Voice Over Times for a couple of years.
Fast forward to present day and we are now able to dedicate time once again to our beloved news site and we would like to invite you to participate.
Read more to find out how you can get published!
How To Get An Agent Dos and Don'ts
At VOICE 2010, I happened to observe a panel where Joyce Castellanos shared some tips on what works and what doesn't when trying to get a talent agent.
Joyce has worked for over 25 years as an audio director/producer for promo departments at NBC, Disney Channel, Warner Marketing and The WB Television Network. She is also an agent in the Promo and Trailer department at AVO Talent.
If you're in the process of pitching your voice to agents and would like some direction, keep these insights in mind and think them through carefully before you pound the proverbial pavement for representation.
How Much Does Your IVR Know?
Have you ever considered how complicated scripting for a telephone tree can be?
What about the intricacies involved in making your IVR smarter?
I recently read an article written by Leonard Klie in a magazine called CRM (Customer Relationship Management) that explored how far technology has come in terms of personalizing an experience for a caller. Based upon what I read, it may be that this brand of personalization, while well-intentioned, has gone too far!
How does a phone system know what your name is before they've asked? Might an IVR also be able to anticipate the reason why someone a customer who phones in might be calling?
Just how much should an IVR system know and say to a customer prior to the person speaking with a live representative?
Find out more in today's VOX Daily!
Quoting Per Word
Quoting for voice over work encompasses a number of factors such as the market size, distribution, the number of characters and also how much is required of you in terms of audio production.
Recently a voice artist emailed to let us know that she was struggling with quoting on a per word basis and asked for some guidance. I'd like some of that to come from you, the working voice actor!
If you quote for certain projects on a per word basis, be sure to let us know when you do it and how you determine the value of certain copy or words by commenting on today's VOX Daily!
Wheel of Fortune's First-Ever Female Announcer, Lora Cain
What's that I hear? Why it's a female voice announcing on one of America's most popular and beloved game shows!
Voice over professional Lora Cain has proven that there's more room at the inn for ladies working on Wheel of Fortune.
While game show announcing has been relatively fair in terms of opportunities for both male and female voice over talent, the big game shows haven't given way to many female announcers but all of that could change.
For instance, Wheel of Fortune has not been graced by the voice of a female announcer... until now!
Learn more about how Lora got the opportunity to try out and also about her experience in today's VOX Daily.
How To Increase Your Audition To Booking Ratio
Thinking like an agent will make it a lot more interesting for you and also help you to book more of the jobs that you audition for.
Watch the video above to learn more!
How Does Physicality Play Into Voice Work?
Have you ever considered just how much is involved in voice over work?
When you think about all that is involved in just simply speaking, you'll note that voice acting can be quite the workout!
Learn more by reading Canadian voice over coach Bob Cook's article via today's VOX Daily.
Self-Assessment: Is Voice Over The Right Career For You?
Are you considering a career in voice overs?
A voice over career requires a well-rounded set of skills.
In this article we'll take a look at some of the most critical skills aspiring talent should develop in order to have a fulfilling career as a voice over artist.
Learn more in today's Vox Daily.
20 Marketing Ideas For Voice Over Actors
Do you need help marketing your voice over business?
Many talent have got the creative side of their businesses down to a fine science but lack the marketing know-how to keep their business growing.
We're offering up twenty marketing ideas that will help put some step into your marketing stride!
Learn more in today's Vox Daily.
Sticking Out in a Crowd
When you're exceptionally talented or skilled in an area, people do tend to take notice and not necessarily because they are happy for you.
Were you one of those people growing up who seemed to gather more criticism or jealousy for your talent than encouragement and support?
Recently I spent some time among some people who fit this description and I've decided to share my experience with you.
Find out more in today's VOX Daily.
The Emotional Voice
What makes a listener perk up their ears to receive a message?
Is it the sound of the voice that captures an audience or the motivation behind how the voice over artist paints their words and delivers the copy?
Let's explore this topic together in greater detail in today's VOX Daily.
How Can Your Child Get Into Voice Overs?
Has your child shown an active interest in doing voice over?
Is there a flair for the dramatic in your house?
Learn more about how you can help to both nurture their interest and avenues for pursuing training and representation for child voice actors in today's VOX Daily.
Keep It Simple!
Is your business all about hype or is it about the simple joy of doing what you love best and getting paid for it?
Guest blogger Tim Lundeen shares his perspective on how to perceive success while keeping yourself grounded.
How do you keep it simple? Hear more in today's VOX Daily.
Get Your Own Voices.com Badge!
Did you know that you can feature your own Voices.com badge online?
We have a number of badges to choose from that can be embedded on your website, blog and beyond.
Take a look to see how some of your colleagues are displaying their Voices.com affiliations in today's VOX Daily.
Living and Working Together: How Do You Make It Work?
Working from home is one thing but what about working from home... with your spouse?
Finding a balance in your home life and in your work is crucial for everyone, particularly those whose offices are a flight of stairs away or mere steps from the breakfast table.
If you're working with your spouse, whether from home or in an office setting, we'd love to hear from you!
Share your story in today's VOX Daily.
Narrating For Local TV
Have you ever been the narrator for a local television station?
Sometimes it's easiest to get your foot in the door by doing some narration on a volunteer basis for local programming. That, or it does help to know the producer!
Hear about voice major Sarah Widmeyer's story in today's VOX Daily.
Talking Toys: Who Voices Those Anyway?
Ever wondered who the voices of talking toys are or how to get that kind of work?
Voicing for these applications can be fun and there's a broad spectrum of vocal needs for toys ranging from animation related franchise toys to educational aids and more.
Are you the voice of a talking toy? Join the conversation in today's VOX Daily!
How Your Microphone Picks Up The Real You
As I've heard it said, the microphone is so sensitive that it can hear your nose hair grow!
Vicki Amorose gives us a different perspective on how your microphone picks up the subtle nuances of your voice, emotion and personal qualities.
How does your mic pick the real you up? Find out in today's VOX Daily.
Voice Over London Workshop March 5, 2011
Do you want to learn about voice overs and how to get into the business?
What about the kind of work that's out there and which voicing styles are in demand?
At Voice Over London's workshop this weekend, I'll be sharing some insight on these topics and also conducting a practical exercise for aspiring talent to explore reading copy and using their voice in new and exciting ways.
Want to learn more? Read today's VOX Daily!
How To Open .Docx Files
From feedback we've received, there are still many people who are unable to open .docx files... while older software may be the issue, did you know that there are tools that you can use online that will do the job for free?
Voice talent member Dale Wilson sent in a tip for how you can open .docx and .rtf files, among others, using Open Office.
Find out more about this solution in today's VOX Daily.
5 Tips For Decluttering Your Studio
Is your recording studio a little on the unmanageable side?
Have you become accustomed to working in a workspace that really isn't workable or healthy for that matter?
If so, today's the day to get moving! Learn about five things you can do to decluttering your home recording studio environment in today's VOX Daily.
Client Experience Report Winter 2011
What do clients using Voices.com want?
Surveying our customers is important to us at Voices.com and we hope you find this information to be useful.
So, what do people looking for voice talent online have in common and how can you use that knowledge to your advantage?
Find out in today's VOX Daily as we discuss results from our Client Experience Report from Winter 2011.
Winter 2011 Release With New Features
We've been working hard to develop some amazing new features that encourage better communication between clients and talents as well as some nifty project management tools for clients.
Today, we'll explore the new "Like" button, Action Menu, Notes, Ask a Question and Send Thank You features. Plus, I'll introduce the Enterprise Edition, a new account type for large businesses who require legal documents to be signed when hiring a voice talent at Voices.com.
SurePay Payment Schedule 2011
At the beginning of January 2011, we implemented a change to how long it takes for payment to be sent to voice over talent in order to continue offering you great service and guarantee timely payments.
Why did we do this?
Find out in today's VOX Daily.
Tips For Getting More Eyeballs (and Ears!) on Your Voice Over Demo
Want to get more listens?
This article is geared toward helping you get your voice out there in a way that clients will find it, hear it and hopefully love what you can do so much that they hire you based upon your demo.
Gain some insight and watch a brand new video from Voices.com in today's VOX Daily!
What Does $39 Million in Voice Over Jobs Look Like?
How To Pick the Right Microphone For Your Voice
When it comes to buying a microphone, you want to be sure that whatever you purchase does justice to your voice and brings your talent to the fore.
In today's VOX Daily, you'll learn about some factors you'll want to consider when going about determining if a microphone is suited to your voice.
After you've read the article, be sure to comment with your thoughts!
Top 5 Job Categories Of All Time
Do you wonder what the most popular job posting categories at Voices.com are?
In this article, you'll learn more about the kind of work that is posted with greatest frequency at the site and which demos.
Which rank in the top 5?
Which pay the highest?
Find out!
Slating, Altering Copy, Watermarking and More
Over the years, we've learned a number of things about how clients want (and don't want) in terms of auditions. As such, our suggestions to voice talent applying for work through Voices.com have evolved.
One of these areas is how to protect your audio. In the past, we've suggested watermarking but over the last year or so have been moving away from this technique in favour of slating.
Let's take a few minutes to go over why this is and how slating can serve as a suitable addition to your auditioning strategies and a way to connect better with prospective customers.
Are You a Farmer or a Hunter?
When it comes to your business, are you a farmer or a hunter?
There are benefits to both, however, you're going to want to evaluate each before making your choice.
Guest blogger Tim Lundeen shares his perspective in a unique article about the differences in today's VOX Daily.
Take Your Candle And Go Light Your World!
Voice acting affords many opportunities to record for projects that are meaningful to you.
Even if you aren't booking a large quantity of work of this kind from other people, isn't it wonderful to know that you can still record it on your own and use your gifts as a voice artist to extend yourself beyond what others might have in store?
Learn more in today's VOX Daily.
Who Won Voices.com's Photo Contest? Find Out!
We received many amazing, hilarious and creative photos this week from people who are members of our Voices.com Facebook page.
Our team is grateful for the 150+ pictures that were received and we are eager to acknowledge the winner and eleven other people whose photos stood out and were designated as finalists.
This contest gave us a means to get to know more people in our community and also gain a better appreciation for what your home studios are like and how Voices.com plays a role in your business.
Picking a winner for the Voices.com Photo Contest wasn't easy, but we're pleased to announce that we have chosen someone!
Find out who the winner is and also who the finalists are in today's VOX Daily.
I Dream of VO
Have you ever had a dream about your work, gear or coaching sessions?
Many people from radio tend to dream (or have nightmares!) about being on-air but I wasn't sure if voice over people in general had these sort of reoccurring cinematic slumbers related to voice acting.
If you have, be sure to comment with your story!
The Journey
Have you ever given much thought to how you got to where you are today?
The people you were surrounded by, everything you learned, worked toward or experienced have contributed to what you find yourself doing now.
If you had to chart your course, what would it look like?
Why Voices.com's SurePay Service Exists and How it Can Help You
Why does Voices.com have SurePay?
Recently a voice over talent asked me about why we offer a safe payment service at Voices.com. The information I shared with him was quite extensive and I thought you might also benefit from what was shared.
Learn more about this aspect of doing business at Voices.com in today's VOX Daily.
You Could Win an iPad! Enter Voices.com's Photo Contest.
There's nothing like a cool contest to help drive away the winter blues!
Voices.com is giving away a 16GB iPad to the person who submits the coolest and most creative photo to our Facebook Fan Page.
What does it take to win and how do you enter?
Find out in today's VOX Daily!
Don't Drop The Copy!
While doing voice over isn't necessarily the easiest gig out there, keeping your eyes on the copy shouldn't be a difficult task... that being said, you'd be surprised by just how many people stray from the script!
In a recent podcast by Nancy Wolfson, she noted that voice over is an open book exam, and given that fact, why would someone risk their read by taking their eyes off the copy?
Take a listen for yourself and be a fly on the wall during one of Nancy's private voice over coaching sessions.
Music in Demos? Let the Debate Begin!
I recently received a question from someone starting out who asked if music was necessary to include in a voice over demo.
As I got to thinking about it, music can either be a beneficial thing, a good thing or completely inappropriate depending on the type of work that is being represented in the demo.
What do you think?
Join in the conversation now by adding a comment.
Mixing Voices in Unison
There are a lot of interesting things that happen at our Voices.com page on Facebook including conversations among members that generate some very interesting and useful ideas!
One of these insightful encounters involved Ben Straley and Doug Brunelle.
What were they talking about and how could it help you?
Find out!
Are There Any Men in Telephony Voice Over?
Usually the voices you hear on auto attendants, interactive voice response, messaging on hold and voice mail services are female but that doesn't mean that there aren't men recording for telephony.
On my quest to highlight this avenue of work for male voice over talent, I heard from a number of your colleagues who do voices for telephone systems.
Find out how many male voice talent featured on Voices.com are offering these services in today's VOX Daily.
Making Your Childhood Joy Your Living
Have you been wanting to use your voice as an actor since childhood?
Maybe you've had a change in your life that has given you the opportunity to go after your dreams and this is the perfect time for them to take flight.
Whether you were the class clown and now find yourself in animation or mimicked news announcers and found yourself in the producer's chair, everyone has a story to tell.
Ruth Rosen was kind enough to share hers with us at Voices.com and you too in today's VOX Daily.
Want Your Voice to Stand Out? Smile!
Have you ever thought about the power of a smile?
What about when it comes to voice acting?
Find out how the simple and pleasurable act of smiling not only makes you feel better but also puts a sparkle in your voice in today's VOX Daily.
To Pop or Not? Are Pop Filters Necessary?
Nearly every photograph I've seen of a voice over talent at the mic during a studio session has been accompanied by a pop filter.
Recently, I heard someone say that a pop filter was not necessary if you could position yourself in such a way to speak across and or over the microphone and not directly into it.
What do you think?
Share your thoughts in response to today's VOX Daily.
Golden Voices Show Support For Homeless at Wilshire and San Vicente
Within the last week, we've observed how one man's life has changed dramatically because he was spotted, given an opportunity to share his story and thrust upon the global stage of social media.
Ted Williams, while talented, was first noticed because he was homeless. It was his vulnerability, not his gift, that first attracted the reporter from the Columbus Dispatch. Some have paralleled this modern day story to the parable of The Good Samaritan and rightly so.
Given the passage of time, clarity has shone through and a number of individuals have noted that the fact that Ted happens to be a voice talent is arbitrary in comparison to the fact that this story is really about redemption.
Where is this all going? Find out in today's VOX Daily.
Are You Living Up to Your Demos?
Just how important is it that you can replicate everything on your demo?
Whether it's production, vocal artistry or interpretation, people get the distinct impression that what they hear is what they'll get.
How's your demo representing your abilities? Explore this topic with me now in today's VOX Daily.
A Golden Voice Rises in Columbus, Ohio
Millions of people have heard about a homeless man with a golden voice named Ted Williams whose talent was recently discovered by a reporter from The Columbus Dispatch alongside the Hudson/I-71.
While Ted has captured media attention for his vocal gifts and current circumstances, it is clear that he has captured the hearts of many people who want to see him shine.
Learn more about how this story has unfolded in today's VOX Daily.
12 Intricacies of Voice Acting and Production
Have you ever thought about just how intricate some of your voice over work is?
Whether it's painting words, deliberate markings made in your script or the meticulousness of audio production, this work can be quite intense!
Find out more in today's VOX Daily.
Rose Parade Features Announcing for the Blind
Are you a fan of the annual Rose Parade and Rose Bowl football game in Pasadena, California?
Herb Merriweather wrote to tell me about the amazing opportunity he has to help the blind to see through his involvement as an emcee and commentator broadcasting the blind and handicapped portion of the Rose Parade.
Learn more about what announcing for the blind entails in today's VOX Daily.
What Was Your Favorite Voice Over Job of 2010?
Here we sit on the edge of 2010 looking into the bright future that 2011 holds for us all.
Before we step into the new year, let's take a few minutes to reflect on the good we've experienced and the blessings that have come our way.
What was your favourite voice over job this year?
Add yours as a comment now!
Setting The Stage For Theatre of the Mind
If you could record your voice from anywhere in the world, whether a private venue or a public space, where would your ideal "studio" be and why?
This question was posed to our Voices.com community on Facebook and some of their answers were very creative.
Discover some interesting ideas and learn more about how you can recreate the environment you're voicing about and set the stage for theatre of the mind in today's VOX Daily.
How Painting Pictures With Words Helps the Blind To See
If you are reading this, chances are you are seeing it with your eyes and running them from left to right, left to right... did that just create a mental picture for you?
While word painting is often associated with aural imagery, did you know that there are other ways that words can be painted?
Find out more in today's VOX Daily.
VOX Daily is 5 Years Old!
Time flies when you are having fun!
While I never miss my wedding anniversary or family member birthdays, it would appear that I've missed a big milestone for the Voices.com blog, VOX Daily!
Join me now as I take a look at some of the highlights we've experienced together via the wonderful worldwide web that have impacted the voice over industry since December 20, 2005.
How Researching Can Enrich Your Reads
When you prepare to narrate for a voice over project, do you ever stop to think of the premise of the story and its plot?
While character development is important, it is something altogether different to fully identify with the structure of a piece and understanding its premise and plot in relation to character(s) in a story.
In today's VOX Daily, we're going to explore ways you can study a script to create a more engaging and motivated read.
It's Time To Meet The Muppets!
Did you know that the puppeteers who control the actions of Muppets also do their voices?
Just as in other franchises, the Muppets and Sesame Street have seen roles passed over to new performers who take their jobs very seriously and with heart!
In today's VOX Daily, we're going to take a look at Jim Henson's legacy and a number of "Muppet Performers" to learn more about their multifaceted jobs as both puppet masters and voice artists.
Is Your Business Ready For 2011?
Are you ready for the new year?
Bobbin Beam shares ideas for making plans and preparations that will jump start your new year in a big way while everyone else is spending the last two weeks of the year relaxing.
I thought you'd enjoy receiving this one-of-a-kind podcast from Voice Over Experts via VOX Daily. Listen in to learn tips for communicating with current and past clients, relationship building, saving time, creating value and being different and unique.
Get your business into shape before the New Year with inspiration from Bobbin Beam.
Voices.com Success Manager is Here to Help!
Are you looking for some help with your Voices.com account?
Wonder if you can get another set of eyes and ears on your profile to attract more clients?
I'm pleased to formally announce that Voices.com subscribers now have access to a wonderful resource in the form of a new position created at the company to serve our talent members, the Voices.com Success Manager.
Learn more about how you could benefit in today's VOX Daily.
Trends in Children's Voice Casting
Have you ever stopped to think about the ages of voice actors who perform child voice acting roles?
Sometimes the voices you hear in commercials and animation aren't the same age as they sound! A number of voice acting roles are voiced by grownups who either sound like children or who can manipulate their voices to sound younger.
In today's VOX Daily, we're going to take a look at some trends in voice acting where casting is concerned for child roles in animation.
VOpedia.com, New Wiki Resource for the Voice Over Community
Have you created a listing for yourself on VOpedia.com?
Similar to Wikipedia, VOpedia is a wiki specific to voice over talent. Developed by Mahmoud Taji, a Canadian voice talent based in Cairo, VOpedia is a repository of knowledge for all things related to the Voiceover Industry.
Learn more about VOpedia in today's VOX Daily.
Kari Wahlgren Returns to Adventures in Odyssey
Earlier today, I happened to be visiting the Adventures in Odyssey blog and noticed a great interview with voice actress, Kari Wahlgren.
Kari has been featured on VOX Daily a number of times and it is always nice to see continued success.
Kari Wahlgren has also voiced roles in animated films such as Kung Fu Panda and Bolt among others.
After a number of years, Kari's voice has returned to the Adventures in Odyssey radio program, voicing the role of a British Nanny, Maria, in episode 676: An Agreeable Nanny.
Hear about how she booked her first role as Gloria McCoy and also listen in to enjoy her most recent work in this series now!
The Exception To The Rule
Have you ever made an exception to the rules you created for your voice over business?
What about where fees are concerned?
Voice talent Herb Merriweather shares a story about one such project and how taking the work for less money initially resulted in his reaping a return on investment worth far more than anticipated.
10 Benefits of Working From Home-based Recording Studios
Do you work from home?
If you do, you're likely aware of the many benefits that go along with being able to conduct business when you want, wherever you want.
Join me now in a Top 10 style list of why it's awesome to work from home in today's VOX Daily.
TomTom Voice Contest Winner, Alan Medcroft!
Do you remember when I mentioned the TomTom contest not too long ago?
TomTom is a company known for having both useful and entertaining voice overs in their satellite navigation devices.
Brian Blessed, a voice of TomTom, sent out a call for entries that met the following criteria:
๏ Energetic and Enthusiastic
๏ Easy to listen to
๏ Adhered to the voice entry instructions (As per the brief given online).
Alan Medcroft's entry was chosen! Learn more about the winner and runners up in today's VOX Daily.
What Happens When a Franchise Voice Changes?
The voice that a company initially chooses to brand with, whether for commercial purposes or for sheer entertainment, often sticks in the minds of their audience as the best choice.
As time passes, there is the occasional recasting of the voice here and there, some of which are easier on the ears and rank higher on the believability scale than others.
Join me as we look at 5 popular examples of how a brand voice has changed and what the outcomes have been in terms of the public's reaction in today's VOX Daily.
Getting Started With Garageband
Have you been wondering about how you can record your voice with Apple's Garageband?
This tutorial by James T. Dawson shows you how to do everything from creating the initial project to ensuring that you have the right settings for your microphone in preparation to record!
James has contributed before (audio recording on a Mac) and I think you'll enjoy this installment.
Learn more about how to get started with Garageband in today's VOX Daily.
How Voice Overs Are Used In Digital Media
Have you ever considered the vast amount of voice over work that has been created because of advances in technology and the embracing of digital media?
From Internet to mobile devices, there's an abundance of work for everyone in this new space.
Join us in today's VOX Daily article where we'll explore the many different ways that voice can be used in digital media and supporting devices.
When Sounding Too Pro Can Lose You The Job
Have you ever thought of the potential ramifications of sounding "too" professional?
Even though you have a polished, trained voice and that usually serves as a benefit, sometimes you'll find that no matter how well you believe you did, the client would beg to differ.
Learn more in today's VOX Daily.
Voice Acting Sure Beats Plastic Surgery!
One of the greatest things about voice acting and being a voice actor is that it doesn't matter what you look like.
Voice actors go about their daily lives without being recognized, scrutinized and have the luxury of selective fame.
Isn't it great to work in a medium where it doesn't matter if you've got make up on, how old you are or whether you're short or tall?
Join with me now and explore the many freedoms voice actors have in today's VOX Daily.
Should You Edit Breaths Out of Your Audition Reads?
There are many different opinions and creative processes when it comes to interpretation and performance, but what do people think about audibly breathing in an audition submission?
The trend is to remove the breaths which begs the question:
Is editing breaths out really necessary, and if so, what impact does it have?
To breathe or not to breathe? That is the question in today's VOX Daily.
Stop Doing That Voice!
Do you have any annoying character voices in your repertory?
It isn't unusual for a voice over talent in-the-making to develop some character voices along the way based upon voices they hear around them or have created on their own.
Hear about one voice over professional and how a character voice she currently uses finds its roots in her childhood... and how she didn't even realize it!
Voices.com to Present at SMArts London
Social Media for the Arts is an unconference being held in London, Ontario Canada on Saturday November 27th, 2010.
SMArts incorporates all elements of the arts including visual arts, the performing arts and more.
One of the sessions will be about how audio, specifically voice over, is used on the web and through mobile applications.
Find out more about this presentation and how you can attend in today's VOX Daily.
iAudition App Helps You Audition On The Go
Have you heard of the new iPhone app, iAudition?
Designed by voice over artists for voice over artists, iAudition enables you to cut audio files on the go to send to your agent, casting directors and more!
There's a cool way that iAudition can be used in conjunction with your membership at Voices.com.
Learn more in today's VOX Daily.
Some Tips For Celebrity Voice Matching
Has anyone ever told you that you sound like a celebrity?
Can you imitate famous cartoon characters?
In today's VOX Daily, we'll take a look at some factors that play into voice matching and discover a couple of resources specific to the art of voice matching and imitation.
Voices.com Webinar Featuring MJ Lallo
Are you interested in voicing for animation, video games and more?
Want to learn more about getting into character?
Voices.com is pleased to share the stage with MJ Lallo on Wednesday November 17th as she teaches us about character development for a number of voice over applications.
Interested in joining the webinar?
Learn more in today's VOX Daily!
The Liabilities of Using Audition Spots on Demos
What happens when you use auditions as spots on demos?
Who does the custom voice sample of work you've auditioned for but not booked belong to?
In this article, we're going to discuss the consequences of what might happen if you use an audition spot on your demo and publicize it online.
Building Relationships and Ongoing Business Through Revisions
What's a revision?
Why are they relevant and how do they contribute to long-term business relationships and corporate branding?
Learn more about voice-over revisions and how they factor in via today's VOX Daily.
Makeover Monday a Great Success!
Have you heard about our newest webinar program?
Earlier this week, we had our very first Makeover Monday at Voices.com.
What an exciting and interesting way to spend an hour!
Hear more about how the webinar went, listen to the show and read some feedback from those who were on the call.
Voices.com a Finalist in the Canadian New Media Awards
The Canadian New Media Awards are coming up on December 1, 2010.
Voices.com is a finalist for the Canadian New Media Award, "Digital Media Technology of the Year."
Last week, I found out that one of our voice talent will be the live announcer at the event! Find out more about the awards and discover the identity of the voice over professional in today's VOX Daily.
Makeover Mondays Starting at Voices.com!
Wonder what it takes to attract clients seeking voice over talent online?
Join the women from Voices.com as they give live reviews of voice actor profiles, helping a different person each week to take their web presence, marketing and auditioning strategies to the next level.
Learn more about how you can get involved in this new initiative now!
Power User Tips For Getting More Work at Voices.com
You might be wondering just how valuable being hired through Voices.com's SurePay escrow service is.
Voice over talent Joe McMillan has long championed working through the site and has recently surpassed 100 positive feedback ratings at Voices.com!
Hear more about Joe's story and discover a few things that you can do to improve your opportunities for being hired online.
How To Stay Awake During Evening Voice Over Sessions
If you are like most voice over talent, you'll have the odd (or regular!) evening recording session.
By the end of the day, you're tired, spent and may have little to give in terms of energy or enthusiasm... however, those late-night sessions still exist!
How do you keep your voice buoyant and faculties alert?
Hear from a number of professional voice talent about how they survive late evening and even nocturnal recording sessions.
Another Spin on the Stereotypical Voice Actor Portrait
What does it take to make a profile picture stand out?
Usually voice over talent veer toward images and headshots that show them in studio at the microphone but every once in a while, you come across something really unique.
Earlier today I was glancing at the Recently Hired list at Voices.com and was struck by one of the most interesting and original profile images I have ever seen.
Hear Alison Matthews' story, pictured at right, and learn more about why she chose to show her face after years of voicing behind the mic in today's VOX Daily.
What Will it Take for ISDN to Die?
In the opinion of many, a technology called Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) is living on borrowed time.
Although ISDN is still the preference of many producers and studios, the writing is on the wall and it's only a matter of time before everyone is forced to look at alternative methods to replace it.
What do you think?
Join in the conversation here on VOX Daily and have your say!
A Champion for Spanish Voice Artists Rises to the Challenge
Have you been looking for more educational, artistic and business resources pertaining to voice overs in Spanish?
I'm pleased to announce that there is a new resource for Spanish speaking voice over talent!
Pablo Hernandez is championing the cause and has been translating a number of VOX Daily articles into Spanish. These articles now provide additional educational resources for Hispanic voice talent online.
Learn more about Vox Latino now.
Edge Studio Presents the Voice Over Words-to-Hours Converter
Have you ever wondered how long it might take you to record a given script?
If all you are armed with is a word count, the script of number of lines, have no fear... Edge Studio's voice over words-to-hours converter is here!
Take a look at this reference chart and see if you can make use of the information for your voice over career.
Local Voices Launched at Voices.com
You might have noticed a "local" theme on the VOX Daily blog for the past week or so. Today, we're pleased to officially announce a new program we're offering at Voices.com called "Local Voices."
This opt-in program is available to all Platinum and Premium annual members.
Want to learn more?
Read on!
The Local Library as a Source for Audiobook Narration Material
Have you ever thought of your local library as being a resource for your voice acting career?
Whether you're borrowing materials to practice with, cut demos from or to gather industry data, your local library serves as a wonderful place to broaden your horizons.
Find out more in today's VOX Daily.
Marketing Your Voice Through Local Networking
In which ways are you marketing your voice locally? Are you part of an ad club or chamber of commerce?
Promoting your voice should be a multi-pronged strategy that involves more than just social networking online... in other words, don't get stuck sitting on the couch when you could be among the people!
Learn more about how you can get the word out to those who may hire you in town in today's VOX Daily.
How Your Voice Over Career Can Benefit From GPS
Are you someone who uses GPS to get around?
Global Positioning Systems are very popular. They can be purchased as standalone items. Some newer cars also come with a GPS installed.
In today's VOX Daily, we're going to explore how a GPS can help, how you can use them for your business and the kind of voice over opportunities for talent in this market.
Location-based Services: Have You Ever Checked In?
Many social networks nowadays now give the option to identify your location when you update your status. This is called a "check in."
Today on VOX Daily, we'll look at Foursquare, the pioneer of this trend, Facebook Places and Twitter Places. More importantly, we'll talk about when and why you might want to make an update business-wise that shares your location.
Local Voices: Finding the People, Places and Things You Need to Find!
Where do you turn to find talent agencies to submit your demo to?
How do you find a voice over coach in your area?
More and more, the tendency is to go straight to a search engine and seek out information that would have previously been sought after in a physical telephone book.
Hear more about how you can find what you're looking for and also be treated to an amazing story that illustrates the point in today's VOX Daily.
Voices.com's Fall Release 2010
Periodically we do a write up on our blog to share information and feature updates that have occurred in the past few months but may not appear obvious at first glance. In the following article, you'll learn about the cool things that have been going on behind the scenes at Voices.com to make your experience even better.
Learn more in today's VOX Daily!
Could Positive Thinking Hurt?
Can too much positive thinking be bad for you?
Vicki Amorose shares some ideas and poses the question of whether positive thinking can leave you in a position to be blindsided in your voice over career and beyond.
Read Vicki's article and then add your own voice to the conversation in today's VOX Daily.
Why is Business Voice Over Work So Popular?
You might have noticed that Voices.com seems to attract more business related voice over work than any other type and it's true!
While Voices.com does receive work to the site for character voice acting and so on, there is a very good explanation for why the bulk of the jobs posted at our site have a more corporate feel.
Find out why in today's VOX Daily.
There's an App for that! Audiobooks on your iPhone
Did you know that there are apps for audiobooks?
As someone who still reads paper books, at times I find myself wishing that the books I was reading could travel with me hands-free when doing chores, gardening or running errands... and after a quick search online, I discovered that most of the time, they are in fact available in audio format for mobile devices.
Learn more about how one audiobook publishing company that has taken a leap into the digital publishing realm by producing apps for a variety of Apple products.
Some Obstacles Teens and Kids Face Getting Talent Agents
If you are a parent trying to find talent agency representation for your child, you may discover that aside from the typical challenges, there may also be hesitation on the agent's part due to factors you might not have considered.
What am I referring to?
Find out what this is in today's VOX Daily.
Knowing Who You're Really Talking To
When you are recording a voice over for an advertisement, do you know who you are really talking to?
At Voices of Vision, Debbie Munro shared an interesting piece of information with all present, revealing that sometimes the audience you think you are speaking to is really just part of the picture with the rest of the equation waiting in the wings.
Learn more about this and add your comments to join the conversation.
Only Voice the Ages You Sound Authentic Voicing!
How well do you know your voice?
Knowing your voice is very important for a number of reasons, especially when you are using it professionally as a tool to get work.
Are the character roles or voice ages you're auditioning for or performing believable?
In today's VOX Daily, we're going to talk a bit about sounding authentic and real when doing character voices.
Class Clowns Rejoice: Silly Voices Can Make You Money!
Were you one of those people who was constantly reprimanded for chatting in class?
Did your classmates find more pleasure in listening to your imitations of the teacher rather than listen to what the teacher had to say?
Whether you were the class clown or simply an overly ambitious social butterfly, the antics that used to get you in hot water could actually serve as assets in the voice acting profession.
Share your experiences and find out more in today's VOX Daily.
When Do You Let a Read Go?
When you are in the director's chair, the decision rests with you as to how many takes you produce or how you approach a read.
How many takes are enough?
Do you beat yourself up to get what you perceive to be the "perfect" take?
Guest blogger Jill Tarnoff asks these questions and more as she journeys as a professional voice over artist.
Read what she has to say in today's VOX Daily and join the conversation with your thoughts!
Using Your Hands To Free Your Voice
Do you use your hands to help direct the flow of your phrasing while voice acting?
Many talent make use of their hands when recording. Getting your entire body involved can be necessary to get the perfect read or characterization.
Learn more about who is using their hands and why in today's VOX Daily.
Seeing Voices.com Again For the First Time
Have you ever looked at something on the surface only to realize that once you dug a bit deeper, there was more to it than you imagined?
Upon that discovery, clarity comes and your eyes are opened to the realities before you, which may be contrary to your initial perception.
Maybe you've told yourself that it's all the same only to discover that it's clearly not.
Find out how this relates to voice over in today's VOX Daily.
How Much Water Do You Drink in a Week?
How much water do you drink in an average week while working as a professional voice actor?
At the Voices.com offices, we have a really neat water cooler that dispenses cold and hot water. Every couple of weeks, a water service comes to our office and removes the empty bottles, replacing them with more aqua... just how much more, I'll let you discover!
I'm really curious to hear about your water consumption habits too. Be sure to comment and let us know!
How to Beef Up Your Brand Through Storytelling
While voice actors are paid to talk, many have difficulty speaking to what they provide and attracting people to more than just keywords describing their instrument.
How can you become more than just a teller of other people's stories?
Learn how to tell your own effectively in today's VOX Daily.
Why Submitting Auditions Isn't Always a Race To The Finish
Do you get deterred whenever a job you're interested in gets more than 20 replies?
How often have you decided not to pursue an opportunity based upon the assumption that the client will never review more than a certain number of auditions?
My friends, if any of the above resonates with you, you're about to get some surprising and liberating news!
Today's VOX Daily contains the proof you need to dispel these misconceptions and give you the encouragement you need to go for the gold.
Want to know more? Read on!
Do You Keep Voices.com Time?
At Voices.com, we serve a global membership base and as such there are talent and clients registered with us who live in virtually every time zone.
When I was at VOICE 2010, I learned that some talent work their businesses around when our offices are open in London, ON Canada.
Learn more about how one voice talent overseas manages their time and keeps the pulse, or minute hand, one the activities at Voices.com in today's VOX Daily.
Voices.com Presents the Voices of Vision Panel
We're very excited to announce the Voices of Vision Panel!
This Friday night in Toronto, a number of people from various parts of the industry will be speaking on a panel that will talk about animation voice over work in Canada as well as how the Canadian voice over landscape differs from that of our American neighbours.
Learn more about this panel and also about other events taking place during Voices of Vision, September 23-25 in Toronto, ON Canada.
Profile Reviews: When Less is More
Is your Voices.com profile completed?
Do you have loads of demos uploaded for people to hear to sample your voice?
Even people who have 100% profile completion and a wide assortment of voice over demos struggle with getting hired and promoting their talent effectively.
In today's VOX Daily, you'll meet someone who meets this description and learn more about how you can make a good thing even better.
Voices.com Ranked #34 on the PROFIT HOT 50 List
It's been hard to keep a tight lip on this but today, PROFIT Magazine gave us word that we are able to share that Voices.com is part of a prestigious lineup of Canadian companies who are gracing the PROFIT HOT 50 list!
The list will be featured in the October 2010 issue.
We are grateful to be included among such fine companies and to receive this honour for the second year running.
To learn more about what this means, continue reading this edition of VOX Daily.
Getting Your Voice Over Career Going with Voices.com
Many people considering voice over as a profession have three basic areas of concern that need to be addressed before they can fully commit to training up and pursuing a career as a professional voice over artist.
Voices.com is offering a series of webinars that cover home recording studios, making a voice over demo and the steps one can take to promote their voice online and off.
If this sounds like something you'd be interested in, read more and reserve your seat for the webinars you'd like to participate in.
Are You Part of Voices.com's Affiliate Program?
~~
UPDATE OCTOBER 15th, 2010:
Voices.com has discontinued the affiliate program through Commission Junction and is developing our own program for affiliates. Stay Tuned!~~
Voices.com has teamed up with Commission Junction to offer an affiliate program. This program allows you to post ads on your personal websites and earn commission for sales made when visitors click through the ads.
If you have your own website or blog and would like to promote Voices.com and earn commission visit Commission Junction's page for Voices.com affiliates to sign up.
Should You Have a Stage Name?
What is a stage name?
Why do people use stage names?
How does someone decide whether or not they might want or need a stage name?
Recently a member of our service asked me about stage names and wanted to know more about why people might take one on and what a stage name could do for your career.
Find out the answer to these questions and more in today's VOX Daily.
Lift Your Glasses and Celebrate National Voice-Over Appreciation Month
(Inter)National Voice Over Appreciation Month continues!
Have you been taking note of all the voices you hear every day?
Dan Roberts returns as a guest blogger to share his thoughts, memories and feelings about voice over with a look at how voice over impacts us all citing specific examples many can relate to in today's VOX Daily.
Voice Over Encounter at Toopy & Binoo Live
Toopy and Binoo came to London, ON Canada today and I happened to be in attendance at the live event.
As we journey through National Voice Over Appreciation Month, I thought it would be neat to take another look at how voice over is consumed through live events that promote animated characters and bring them to life for their fans.
Learn more about these kind of events and how you can attend one too in today's VOX Daily.
Leveraging Your Intellectual Strengths in Voice Overs
Has voice over been your only field of study and profession?
Most people become voice artists after they have already had a career or pursued studies in a different field.
That being said, you can consider your education and work experience, even special interests, as relevant information stored in your mind that could help you shape and define your niche as a voice over artist!
Learn more about how you can go about defining your niche in today's VOX Daily.
National Voice Over Appreciation Month
September is National Voice Over Appreciation Month!
A voice over is a spoken word performance given by an actor who is heard but not seen. Voice overs are produced most often to educate, inform or entertain and can be heard via many different mediums such as broadcast, video games, film, telephony, audiobooks and more.
If you've ever heard a voice over and were the better for it, now is the time to celebrate!
Voices.com is pleased to help spread the word about what's going on and also share how you can get involved.
Sincerity, Smile & Physicality
Over the years that Marc Cashman has been teaching voiceover techniques, he has revealed a number of very specific tips, tricks and tools you can use to help make you a better voice actor.
Some of these are structural skills, like breath and cadence control, articulation, eye-brain-mouth coordination; others are aimed at acting methods, interpretation and taking direction.
But there are three things that underlay all convincing voice acting: sincerity, smile and physicality.
Find out what they are in today's VOX Daily.
Do You Love Voice Over Experts? Write a Review in iTunes!
Do you enjoy listening to the Voice Over Experts podcast?
If you do, how about letting people know via iTunes and spreading the good cheer?!
Help others to discover the #1 educational podcast featuring renowned voice over coaches from US, Canada and abroad by leaving a review on iTunes for Voice Over Experts.
Find out how you can do this in today's VOX Daily.
How To Get Your Voices.com Profile Ranking Higher in Search Engines
Have you ever searched for your name in Google or any other search engine?
How about your Voices.com profile?
Recently I answered a question about why someone was showing up in Google, but they couldn't yet find their profile in Microsoft's Bing or Yahoo! Search.
Here are some suggestions that I think would benefit all members of Voices.com. Find out more in today's VOX Daily.
FaffCon, a Voice Over unconference in Portland, OR
What's FaffCon?
FaffCon, a voice over event organized by Amy Snively, will take place on September 11th and 12th, 2010 in Portland, Oregon.
Learn more in a video featuring Peter O'Connell and a number of voice over artists as they explore what FaffCon is.
3 Reasons Why Audio Recording Rocks
Do you love audio recording?
Working on-camera last week deepened my appreciation for what many of us take for granted in audio recording.
Why does audio recording rock? I'll tell you 3 reasons why in today's VOX Daily.
Empowering Your Voices.com Profile
When is the last time you updated your Voices.com profile?
In a recent teleseminar called "Power Profiles," David and I spoke in detail about how important it is that your profile be complete and presented to visitors at the site in the best possible way.
Why is this important?
Find out in today's VOX Daily.
How Do You Measure Success?
There are many ways that one might go about defining success and determining when success has been achieved.
How do you measure your success?
Guest blogger Herb Merriweather invites you to consider how your efforts, and not simply financial or physical gain, can be perceived as success.
Why Strategic Listening to Voice Over Matters
Have you ever thought about how important the act of listening is to your voice over career?
Voice overs are part of the day-to-day landscape and grace your ears whether you were aware of them or not.
Just as the average person sees about 3000 advertisements a day, the average person hears more messages than one might expect each day, numbering in the hundreds, potentially thousands depending on your exposure to advertisements and voice-over heavy mediums such as broadcast.
When you think about it, there's a lot of work out there for voice over talent... and if you listen hard enough, you'll be able to tap into trends, figure out whose booking and why.
In today's VOX Daily, we're going to talk about the benefits of listening and why you need to lend an ear so to speak and keep your finger on the pulse of the industry, particularly where your areas of expertise and interest are concerned.
What Was the First Voice Over You Remember Hearing?
People are surrounded by media, much of which includes voice over, and first encounter voice overs at a very young age.
What's the first voice over that you recall hearing?
Find out what some voice actors have to say about their earliest voice over memories and add your story as a comment in today's VOX Daily.
Voices of Vision, a VO Event in Toronto
Have you been waiting for a voice over event in Canada?
Voices.com is pleased to help promote "Voices of Vision," taking place this September!
This event takes place on September 23-25, 2010 in Toronto, Ontario. This is Canada's first-ever event of this scope, bringing some of the industry's top coaches and personalities to teach, inspire and motivate voice actors. Can you feel the excitement?
Find out more in today's VOX Daily.
How Uncredited Voice Over Roles in Disney Films "Kept the Magic"
Have you ever considered how many voice over roles went uncredited in the earliest days of animated film?
This article looks at a specific example regarding one of Walt Disney's most famous animated masterpieces and explores the lengths Disney went to in order to stake his claim to a franchise voice.
Which film and voice artist am I talking about?
Find out in today's VOX Daily!
Why Not Add A "Giving" Line To Your Bottom Line?
Have you ever given any thought to how your business could give back?
While many people donate as part of their personal giving, many businesses set aside a certain percentage of their profits to donate to organizations they wish to support.
Sound like something you could do?
I'm pleased to present one of guest blogger and voice talent David Brower's most recent postings with you in today's VOX Daily on making "giving" part of your bottom line.
Less Than 30 Minutes Could Change Your Voices.com Experience
Wish you could be getting more business online?
In less than the time it takes for a pizza to be delivered to your house, your experience at Voices.com could begin to change drastically for the better!
How can this be? What do you need to do?
Read this article about a recent profile review I conducted and see if any of these tips could turn your Voices.com experience a full 360 degrees in the direction of success.
A Chair Fit For a Narrator
Do you sit or stand when you record?
While most voice over talent prefer to stand to record commercials and shorter projects, what do you do when you have to sit and record an audiobook, a 75,000 word iPhone app or a training manual for a large corporation?
Standing does give you a number of benefits, however, sometimes standing for too long can be impractical and could possibly even affect your read.
Find out what some voice over professionals consider to be the makings of a perfect voice over chair in today's VOX Daily.
Voice Acting Videos You Might Enjoy via Voices.com
Are you always looking for neat information, insight and excitement in the world of voice over?
If so, the Voices.com Video Blog is where you want to hang out!
Find out more about the videos featured on the blog and also make recommendations for videos you'd like to see in today's VOX Daily.
Voice Overs Heard in Arcade Games
Have you ever been to an arcade or an amusement park and purposefully listened for voice overs?
Voice over is used in a variety of games and activities, employed for a number of reasons.
Recently, I spent some time studying the smorgasbord of sound that emanated from an arcade and a go kart track.
What did I hear and what was learned?
This article will detail some of the auditory experiences gleaned researching how voice over is used in arcades and at theme parks.
Yes, People Do Book Off Their Demos at Voices.com!
Is it true that people can still get work straight off their demos?
Can you book a voice over job by simply uploading a number of voice samples, positioning them well and being found by the right person?
The answer to these questions is YES!
Hear more about how this happens in today's VOX Daily.
How to Transform Your Regional Accent Like Eliza Doolittle
Can you be coached to lose a regional accent like Eliza Doolittle in George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion?
What does it take to shake off ingrained regionalisms and project a more "national" sound?
Many of the voices you have heard over the years have undergone training to help give them a more polished sound.
Just as actors in film are coached on set to help them get more into character, such training is available on an individual basis for voice over professionals.
Find out how some coaching can help and get links to some neat resources here in today's VOX Daily.
Knowing How a Story Ends Before You Get There
As Scott Brick says, with regard to audiobook narration, you need to keep the end of the story in mind even at the beginning.
By starting your work with the end in sight, you are able to lead your listeners through the peaks and valleys of a well-woven tale and truly function as the omniscient narrator you are meant to be.
Although reading the book before recording is the most obvious way to gain pertinent information, how else can you acquire it if unable to dedicate sufficient time to read the book in full or conduct an in depth analysis?
Find out how you can do this when in a pinch via today's VOX Daily.
A Spotlight on the Nitty Gritty of Auditioning
Finding the right person to work with comes down to more than just a demo and a quote... sometimes what matters most is how you present yourself.
Even though you work in an audio medium, part of how you promote yourself and communicate includes the words you use to earn someone's business.
Find out how you can make your proposals more appealing in today's VOX Daily.
Adventures in Profile Reviews
Ever wondered if your profile might have something to do with why you are or aren't booking jobs at Voices.com?
While posting a job is the most popular option for clients hiring talent, direct contacts occur frequently and often result in a talent getting a job without even having to audition!
Completing your profile and keeping it up to date with your career makes a big difference in how you are found and how present yourself to prospective customers online.
Learn more about 10 common areas that most voice over professionals can improve upon in today's VOX Daily.
Do You Know About Voices.com's Freebie Fridays?
While most VOX Daily readers are among those "in the know," I thought I would post about a really neat promotion that we run every Friday in our Voices.com Facebook Group called, "Voices.com Freebie Fridays."
Over the last several months, we've been offering giveaways via our fan page that have included all kinds of valuable and exciting prizes.
If you remember and enjoyed the Saturday Giveaways that used to be offered through VOX Daily, you'll really dig Voices.com's Freebie Fridays.
Learn more about what's been going on and how you can participate in today's VOX Daily!
How To Decode Artistic Direction in Voice Overs
Ever get a casting call that provides contradictory information or is asking for you to sound like a particular celebrity?
This happens everyday and as a voice over talent, you need to be able to decipher what the director really means when they put something out there and hope for the best.
Learn how you can crack the artistic direction code in 3 different ways in today's VOX Daily.
Mid-Year Reassessment a.k.a Check Up From The Neck Up
Summer is heating up and so are your resolutions for your business that were made going into 2010!
Are you still on track?
6 months later, It's time to check!
Guest blogger Bobbin Beam joins us in her mid-year reassessment, or, check up from the neck up in today's VOX Daily.
What Happens When a Voice Person Goes On-Camera?
Going from behind the mic to in front of the camera is a BIG difference, in fact, it's so huge that I've decided to share my own experience with you.
Fortunately, I'm working with someone who understands where this audio girl is coming from. This same person worked with Don LaFontaine at one point in Los Angeles so you know he's good.
Hear what I've come to learn and also find out what worked for me on VOX Daily.
The Voice of God
"In a world..."
You might recognize that sort of phrasing and associate it with what some in our industry refer to as the Voice of God.
What defines "The Voice of God" when spoken of in voice over terminology?
Today, we're going to take a closer look at what the stereotypical sound is, why it became so popular and how the voice type, or rather the "sound," may have got its name.
Why Does a Completed Profile Matter at Voices.com? Find Out!
What happens when you don't complete your profile at Voices.com?
Silence... you may end up hearing nothing but silence!
Discover more about how you can ensure that your profile is the absolute best that it can be from someone who has learned the hard way.
Get Off My Lawn! There's a Recording Session In Progress
Has a lawnmower suddenly started up next door while you were recording a voice over?
Do you ever need to quarantine family or friends in opposite ends of the house or shoo people out because of a session?
Read about what can happen when noise pollution strikes your studio and how you can creatively combat it in today's VOX Daily.
Harlan Hogan's Porta-Booth Pro in Pictures!
There's nothing quite like finding out what makes things work, and when that something is a piece of studio equipment that could make your voice over recordings sound better when on the road or away from home, it's an absolute must!
Get a behind the scenes look at the newly released Harlan Hogan Porta-Booth Pro in today's VOX Daily.
Recording Voice Overs for Mobile Applications
The market opportunities for voice over have expanded since the launch of destinations such as Apple's iTunes App Store.
With more work out there than you can shake a stick at, voice over narration and character voiceover work for mobile applications is an exciting avenue to pursue as a voice actor.
Hear about some of the work being done for the iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch and more in today's VOX Daily.
Andy Boyns Podcasts "The Person Behind the Voice"
What brought some of voice over's finest into the industry and what motivates them to stay?
Andy Boyns has started a new podcast series that takes a look at the person behind the voice, profiling a number of voice actors and personalities.
While at VOICE 2010, Andy graciously extended opportunities to many people to be interviewed and to share their story.
Find out more about these interviews and how you can listen to them in today's VOX Daily!
Voices Behind SitePals
Are you the voice of a SitePal or a talking character on a website?
You've probably seen these virtual spokespeople on many websites. Perhaps you have even given voice to one, two or more!
We'll learn about SitePals, take a look at a SitePal in action and discover more about this kind of voice over work in today's VOX Daily.
Celebrity Voice Casting: Publicity VS Performance
Why are celebrities getting some of the top animation voice over gigs in feature films?
MJ Lallo, an animation voice actor and teacher in Los Angeles, has been known to say that celebrity casting is all about publicity rather than a fantastic voice.
When our Facebook group encountered MJ's quote, they started sharing their own ideas as to why this is the case and also what the outcome of celebrity voice casting is in terms of the quality of entertainment, viewer engagement and what the audience really takes away from the movie.
What are some potential long term outcomes of celebrity casting for the sake of leading the box office with "star" power? Find out!
Winner of the Voices.com Contest!
Remember seeing the graphic above?
During the month of June 2010, clients who posted jobs and completed them at Voices.com were entered into a contest that qualified them for the opportunity to win up to $500 cash back on business conducted through our website.
After reviewing many fabulous jobs that were completed via our SurePay escrow service this month, we've decided to award the honor to Laurence Ardouin of Tribal Nova!
Find out more about why we chose Laurence's job and also who booked it in today's VOX Daily.
What's Cooking in Your Voice Over Studio?
As you may have noticed, there are many professional voice over talent who are creating videos of themselves and uploading them to YouTube.
Do you have a video we could watch of you working in your home recording studio?
Comment with the YouTube URL where we can discover your voice acting video via today's VOX Daily!
3 Things to Double Check Post Redesign at Voices.com
Now that the new Voices.com is live, there are a few things that you can do to help make your experience using the site even better!
While it's good to periodically update your profile from time to time, I thought it would be beneficial to send a group reminder out today with a few tips to help you get even more out of your profile at Voices.com.
Find out how you can do more to personalize your profile, rank more accurately in the search results and package your demos with precision and pizazz in today's VOX Daily.
The Don LaFontaine Voice-Over Lab Opens
Located at the SAG Foundation Actors Center in Los Angeles, the Don LaFontaine Voice-Over Lab's fully-equipped sound studio allows actors to work on voice-over craft, demos and auditions while classroom space is set to host workshops, seminars and demonstrations led by experts in the field.
Don's personal engineer, George Whittam, oversaw the design and execution of the Lab and Don's wife Nita Whitaker LaFontaine fully endorsed the project.
Voices.com's New Website is Coming Today!
Have you noticed a slightly different look to the blog?
We started a few weeks ago with a redesign of the blogs, podcasts and videos and on June 25, 2010 our team will be launching the full redesign for you to discover!
Learn more about how this will happen, how it may affect you and also what you can do in the meantime as we make this exciting transition.
VOICE 2010 Diversity Panel Coverage
The Diversity Panel has received a lot of attention post-VOICE 2010 and rightly so.
Big Llou Johnson was such a gracious host and the conversations during and after the panel were out of this world.
In today's VOX Daily, I'll be sharing what I took from the panel and hope that the exploration of this topic and discussions therein will be illuminating, encouraging and motivational.
Home Recording Studios: Big or Small, We Love Them All!
From time to time I am asked to post a question via my Facebook status to gain feedback or advice on behalf of one of my friends.
Today's posting is the fruit of one such effort.
Is there an average size for home recording studios? Find out in today's VOX Daily.
Promoting Yourself: Ask Before You Tweet and Other Encouragements
Just like you look both ways before you cross the street, you need to ask before you tweet.
Most companies will be open to you publicizing good experiences working with them but it's important to realize that public relations specific to a project, especially one in development, belongs within the realm of the company who is producing the project.
Learn more about how you can ask a company you're working for about sharing your involvement and also how to become part of what they may already be doing in this regard in today's VOX Daily.
Interview with Morgan Freeman Sound A Like, Larry Davis
During VOICE 2010, I happened to meet a very interesting person who has the amazing ability to sound like one of the most beloved and universally recognizable voices working today.
Larry Davis, a professional voice over artist, is a man of many talents, including being able to sound like Morgan Freeman.
We got chatting after the Diversity panel and I'm excited to share my conversation with Larry about his work and how he has come to be known for delivering Hollywood style reads.
Diversity... and Parity?
For those who were at the Diversity Panel moderated by Big Llou Johnson at VOICE 2010, it was hard to leave unmoved spiritually or emotionally.
The panel explored issues that some people in this industry prefer not to acknowledge resulting in a new understanding of the struggles and prejudices that minorities, specifically people of colour, face when on the job.
Herb Merriweather was also in attendance at this breakthrough panel and has some thoughts to share with us in today's VOX Daily.
Do Voice Over Pros Love Their Voices? The Answers May Surprise You!
This article was inspired by a comment posted a couple of days ago on the headphones article by Dan Roberts.
The idea was that by not wearing headphones you could thereby avoid or distance yourself from the possibility of "falling in love" with your own voice. I then wondered if this happened and what one might do to avoid it.
When this concept was posed to our Voices.com Facebook group, the responses started to pour in with people overwhelmingly stating that they did not love their own voices... in fact, some hated them!
Find out what was said in today's VOX Daily.
VOICE 2010 Audiobook Panel: Pat Fraley, Hillary Huber and Scott Brick
Three big name narrators were on hand for the VOICE 2010 audiobook panel to share insider tips, dispel myths and direct volunteers in long form narration.
Patrick Fraley, Hillary Huber and Scott Brick set the record straight on a number of fronts and provided information that is critical for anyone aspiring to record audiobooks, even for seasoned audiobook narrators, to hear.
Join me now in this coverage of the audiobook panel and an awesome display of talent. Enjoy!
Invasion of the Headphone Snatchers!
To use or not to use headphones?
That is the question:
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous decibels or to take arms against a sea of sound waves and by opposing thine headphones, end them.
Dan Roberts joins us today to share his reflections on whether or not you should put the cans on while performing a voice over as inspired by sessions at VOICE 2010.
Promo Panel at VOICE 2010
The Promo Panel is always a session to look forward to at VOICE and this one was no exception.
Joe Cipriano moderated the panel which was jam packed with top talent who do promos and trailers including Scott Rummell, Ashton Smith, Rino Romano, Sylvia Villagran, and Stew Herrera.
Glean some wisdom from promo royalty today on VOX Daily.
Voice Casting in Feature Films Based Upon Animated Series
What is the process for casting films based on an animated series when members of the original or current cast (for which a show, movie or otherwise gained its following) are still alive and well?
This question is a timely one and a topic that should be of great interest to the voice over community.
Join in this discussion now and learn more about what goes on behind the scenes.
PromaxBDA Honors Joe Cipriano with Don LaFontaine Legacy Award
PromaxBDA and Brief Magazine are proud to present the 2nd Annual Don LaFontaine Legacy Award to Joe Cipriano.
Created collectively by PromaxBDA, Rudy Gaskins and Anita LaFontaine to honor the name, memory and defining legacy of one of the world's most famous voices, the Don LaFontaine Legacy Award recognizes a voice of impact as determined by a specialized industry committee.
Through the criteria filter of character, longevity, talent, professionalism and the passion for giving back, this year's recipient embodies much of Don's defining legacy.
The award will be presented to Joe on June 24, 2010.
Maurice LaMarche's Take on Voice Acting
What makes voice acting special to you?
How do you feel when you step up to the mic, get into character or create something worth hearing with your very own voice?
Each voice actor may articulate their feelings in a different way, however, there are some common threads that bind.
Voice actors Maurice LaMarche and Rob Paulsen were kind to share how they felt at the VOICE 2010 Celebrity Banquet.
Hear how Maurice LaMarche describes character voice acting and share your own thoughts and feelings on the subject here at VOX Daily.
How About Some Smurf Justice for June Foray?
June Foray, now approaching 93 years of age, was the original voice of Jokey Smurf.
With a Smurf film coming down the pipe, Paul Reubens has been cast as Jokey and our June's name is nowhere in sight on the cast list... for shame!
That's exactly what Dave Courvoisier and Bob Bergen thought. Dave and Bob decided to help us take the matter into our own hands as a community and seek some Smurf Justice for June by utilizing social media.
Lend a hand and make your voice heard!
3 Interesting Ideas From Presenters at VOICE 2010
When sitting in on a number of sessions during VOICE 2010, there were a great deal of concepts explored and tidbits of information presented.
I've gathered a few of them here for you and hope that you find them useful.
Keep your eyes open for more great content in the coming days!
8 Elements of Comedy with Pat Fraley
Can anyone learn how to be funny?
Comedy has a formula, and in today's VOX Daily, I'm going to share some of what master voice over instructor Pat Fraley had to share in his VOICE 2010 presentation that had people laughing into the aisles and falling off their chairs.
Stay Tuned For Coverage of VOICE 2010
I'm writing to you from the VOICE 2010 conference in Los Angeles where I, among hundreds of other voice over people, will from June 2nd through June 5th, 2010.
Want to know how to keep up with what's going on here without having to leave home?
Stay tuned to Voices.com on Twitter, Facebook and of course, VOX Daily!
Why Cold Reading Skills Are a Must For Voice Actors
Have you ever thought of why cold reading skills are necessary?
The ability to think and speak on your feet is essential to a number of voice over jobs including animation, video game voice acting, live announcing and more.
Find out why this skill is a must from real voice over pros in today's VOX Daily.
Voice Over is 1% Inspiration, 99% Perspiration
If you're like me, you might enjoy watching home renovation shows because you like to see the before, the during and after. Observing a property go from one stage of development to another can be exciting and rewarding.
While you aren't personally involved in the task, you may feel as though you've accomplished something just by watching it, right?
After viewing programs of this nature, it is easy to feel inspired and live vicariously through the successes and achievements of others without doing a thing yourself and therefore not making an inch of progress in your own household projects.
Similarly, if you are studying voice over or watching other professionals do their work in the booth, it's easy to feel as though you are also moving forward by watching them work or improve... this is where we begin.
Spoken Word Performances in Vogue
When's the last time you heard a live performance of the spoken word?
Artistic hubs such New York and Los Angeles are brimming with opportunities to hear written works performed by talented actors.
One organization in particular, WordTheatre, has become an amazing force in preserving the art of the spoken word and involves talented actors, such as Julianna Margulies (pictured at left) to give live performances to fortunate audiences.
Learn more about how the spoken word, both live and recorded, is making an impact on our culture.
Voices.com Introduces Managed Projects
Voice over work is more abundant than you might have previously thought... and more of it's coming online.
We're being approached by much larger organizations to handle an every increasingly complex scope of work.
Learn more about managed projects and what this means for you at Voices.com now in today's VOX Daily.
Voice Over With a Chance of Meatballs
When you step up to the mic, does good oral hygiene step up with you?
Brushing, flossing and rinsing can go a long way in delivering a clean, flawless vocal recording.
Learn more about how a clean mouth makes a happy voice over in today's VOX Daily.
Cynthia Songé Passes Away But Her Words Live On
The voice over community is grieved to learn of Cynthia Songé's passing at the age of 58.
Cynthia died on Wednesday, May 19 of a brief illness in Arroyo Grande, California.
At this time of sorrow, I thought it would be fitting to remember and celebrate Cynthia's life by sharing her insight and wonderful contribution to the Voice Over Experts podcast with you, entitled "Debating The Signature Voice."
Bringing Humour Into Audiobook Narration
Yes, humour can reside in the booth when recording long form narration!
Watch Kirby Heyborne as he talks about narrating audiobooks.
Pivotal Moments and Amazing Voice Over Experiences
Have you ever had an experience related to voice over that made a significant impact on you?
Recently Linwood Powell was invited to an event where the live announcing was provided by Steve Zirnkilton, the Voice of Law & Order.
Hear more about his experience now on VOX Daily and share your story, too!
Voice Over Dream Teams, Past and Present
A dream team represents the best of the best.
We've seen this phenomenon play out in sport, film, and sometimes if we're lucky, in the realms of politics and or leadership within an industry.
Have you ever thought that this too might be something we experience and can identify with in terms of the voice over industry?
Client Experience Report from Spring 2010
How do clients make their decisions when it comes to hiring talent at Voices.com?
What matters to them most?
What can this mean for you?
Find out the answers to these questions and more in today's VOX Daily.
Your Language is Your Home
Have you ever thought of your language as being your home?
Wherever you go, your language goes with you. Sometimes it's one of the only things you can take with you when traveling to a foreign country!
Let's explore this idea a bit further and how voice over can help.
A Familiar Voice in the Gardens of the Palace of Versailles
Ever strolled through a place and found yourself accompanied by a familiar voice?
This happened to me a few weeks ago when I was in the gardens of Versailles. To my pleasant surprise, I discovered that the voice I heard belonged to one of Voices.com's talent members!
Find out whose voice over is currently playing on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles in today's VOX Daily.
Audio Resource: SurePay Improvements May 2010
Earlier this month we made some improvements to our SurePay escrow service. SurePay ensures that you get paid for any work that is completed using the Voices.com website.
In today's VOX Daily, you'll get to hear the audio content from a webinar that Laurynda Pasma and Scott Lumley gave last week regarding these improvements and how the service works.
The audio program lasts about 30 minutes and we hope you find it useful.
What's been improved? What's changed? Hear more now!
The Challenges of Medical Narration
Have you ever considered narrating for the medical community?
Julie Williams has a workshop coming up in June of this year where she'll be teaching you more about how you can read technical scripts with the ease of a storyteller.
Learn more about the interesting field of voice over narration now.
Voice Over Group in London, ON Canada?
This past weekend, a few members of the Voices.com staff attended PodCamp London, an unconference that we have sponsored and spoken at for two years running.
An interesting idea came up during the Question and Answer period following my presentation that I'd like to explore with you.
I'd appreciate it if you could take a few minutes now to brainstorm with me. This could be the start of something amazing!
Smooth Fruits That Soothe the Throat
Before you reach for lozenges, throat elixirs or a quick fix from the drug store, why not try consuming some of nature's candy prescription free?
After a few mornings of consecutive avocado snacking, I came to realize that not only was the fruit tasty and full of omega 3s, it also appeared to have some healing properties that seemed to benefit my throat, and consequently, my voice.
Hear from other voice pros and learn more about which fruits give their voice a boost!
Is It Possible to Overvalue Your Voice?
It may appear that we're beating a dead horse, but perceived value is everything.
Everything is relative, right?
The question is posed and the floor is yours: Is it possible to overvalue your voice?
Let the debate begin!
Perceived Value Means Everything
Do you base your worth upon a client's word count?
How do you perceive your time, talent and skills?
In today's VOX Daily, hear from an industry veteran who knows her worth and isn't afraid to stand by her rates. Sound like something you could get into? Find out!
4 Less Than Obvious Reasons Why Authors Hire Narrators
Why do most authors prefer to have someone else narrate their books?
Considering how many audiobooks are recorded by professional narrators versus audiobooks recorded by authors, you'll find that the vast majority of audiobooks are read by someone other than the person who penned them.
Today we'll explore 4 reasons from an author's point of view as to why hiring a professional narrator may be their preferred option.
Animators Are Nourished By Voice Actor Performances
Have you ever noticed how some animated characters tend to resemble their voice acting counterparts?
Whether it's outright physical similarities or intentionally incorporated mannerisms, Hollywood has made an extra effort to bring more of the actor into their animated selves, in fact, an actor's mannerisms will often inspire the physical appearance of their character!
Newly Improved SurePay
There has been an exciting development at Voices.com in terms of helping our customer to achieve their goals faster and with more ease than ever before.
After receiving some interesting client feedback, a couple improvements have been made to SurePay and we're excited to explain these improvements via a teleseminar this week.
To learn more, keep reading!
Why is the Business of Voice Over So Enigmatic?
The last couple of articles discussing voice over rates and rates for audio editing have been very interesting to explore as a community. This topic has also sparked some wonderful conversations bringing new insight, opinions and realities to light!
That being said, because comments are added online, some readers of VOX Daily (especially email subscribers) may not see the valuable comments that are left after the fact... I'll do my best to bring more of those to you in the form of inspired articles.
Today's posting was inspired by a comment I just approved on the topic of rates for audio editing.
Dana Detrick has a different perspective having come from a production background before pursuing voice over. I think you'll find what she has to say very interesting and also very true!
Might Dana's thoughts help us to learn more about why doing business and quoting for work seems so enigmatic? Will her words give you a new perspective on quoting and on audio editing?
Find out!
When You Quote, Remember To Include Editing
In our previous article about rates, specifically to do with audiobooks, one comment sparked an idea for further discussion regarding editing as a separate fee to charge if you are required to provide more complex engineering services to your clients.
Editing is its own service.
The cost depends on how long the voice over is and how complicated the editing requirements are.
Learn more about why editing should be accounted for now in today's VOX Daily.
A Discussion about Rates
Rates is a sensitive topic regardless of industry.
As we begin, let me first say that as a marketplace our primary responsibility is to facilitate business relationships that yield fruitful returns for our customers. A person in need of a custom voice over recording can visit Voices.com and find someone to work with quickly and cost-effectively. Similarly, a voice over professional who wants to market their voice and obtain business opportunities for work may also use Voices.com to achieve their goals.
Our role is to connect people and provide a platform for them to conduct business.
Setting rates is not part of what a marketplace does.
While we understand our unique role in the industry as facilitator, we are keenly aware of the need some talent have for establishing a rate sheet that indicates a range they may choose to quote within. Similarly, there are some clients who also appreciate resources and who have asked for a road map to follow with regard to how much they could budget for their voice overs.
If you're curious about some of the challenges we face and want to further explore the topic of voice over rates, read on.
Interview with Melissa Altro, The Voice of Muffy on Arthur
If you have been watching the animated series Arthur over the years on television and loved the voice acting, you are in for a treat!
I'd like to introduce you to Melissa Altro, one of Canada's premier voice talents with over 15 years of industry experience.
Since 1995, Melissa has played the role of Muffy in the 4-time Emmy-Award-winning show Arthur. Recently, Melissa and I spoke on the phone about her career, what it means to be Muffy Crosswire and her coaching services.
Meet Melissa Altro now in today's VOX Daily!
Awesome Voice Over Videos: Rataouille Voice Cast
Any animation fans out there?
This article features a couple videos giving you a backstage pass to voice over sessions for animated series and movies.
First off, enjoy a video featuring the comedic talent behind Ratatouille. Brad Bird takes you into the recording sessions with Patton Oswalt (voice of Remy), Brad Garrett (voice of Gusteau), and Janeane Garofalo (voice of Colette).
Awesome Voice Over Videos: Acoustics 101
Need some help treating your audio recording studio?
In this awesome video, RØDE Microphones founder and company president Peter Freedman gives you a quick DIY class on improving room acoustics!
Awesome Voice Over Videos: The Santa Sessions
Regardless of time or season, this video is an absolute winner!
For the uninitiated, The Santa Sessions illustrates what can happen when a voice over recording session runs off the rails. Even St. Nick needs to take more than a few spins around the copy to satisfy the crew.
Who would have thought that "Ho Ho Ho" could be so difficult to say?
Awesome Voice Over Videos: 5 Men in a Limo
In a world where a select group of men use their unique voiceover talents comes the short film that brought a nation to its feet!
Experience this gem featuring some of the most beloved and recognizable voices in the movie trailer voice over business, Don LaFontaine, John Leader, Al Chalk, Mark Elliot, and Nick Tate with a cameo voice appearance by Hal Douglas.
Awesome Voice Over Videos: Voice Talkers
Do you remember this video performed by the comedy group, Poykpac?
Voice Talkers: Living the Dream of a Voice Actor has become one of the most talked about voice over videos.
This week, we are going to take a look at some of the most popular videos from our industry as they appear on YouTube.
Watch Voice Talkers and also discover some cool facts about the cast here on today's VOX Daily!
Tips For Doing a Voice Over Session via Skype
Did you know that you can be directed by a client over Skype if need be?
In today's VOX Daily, we'll be exploring how you can do this and also be providing real examples of projects that have been completed in this manner.
You don't need to have ISDN anymore simply to be directed remotely.
Want to learn more? Read on!
What To Do When You're Sick, Vacationing or Unavailable to Record
Inevitably you won't be able to do every job that comes your way. This is particularly true of projects that don't align with your personal beliefs, a topic which we've touched on before.
But what do you do when you are sick, on vacation or too busy to take on a voice over job with a tight deadline?
Instead of just passing on the gig, how about applying some thought to creative solutions that will still help you to serve that client and be perceived as helpful.
Think Your Auditions Are in Vain? Read This.
Are you seeing the bigger picture?
Many voice talent struggle with the art of auditioning in order to get work and often resent this necessary process. Although auditioning is ongoing, there's good news... you don't have to see it as a struggle!
One shift in your perspective could make the difference between struggling and succeeding.
Find out more in this eyeopening article from Voices.com member, Randy Anderson.
Marc Cashman Shares 12 Top Voice Over Skills
What can you do to improve your voice over performances?
Voice over instructor and performer Marc Cashman identifies and describes 12 voice over skill sets that will help you to refine your current skills and develop new ones!
From clarity to consistency to cold reading and more, you'll find new ways that you can leverage your talent and make it shine brightly for all to hear.
Learn more about what successful voice over artists master and the skills that matter in today's VOX Daily.
Voice Artist Mike Cooper Narrates Televised Series "Britain at War"
British voice over artist Mike Cooper was chosen to narrate the televised series "Britain at War," airing on Military History starting Thursday of this week.
Mike's voice joins those of veterans who lived through the terrors of World War II, helping to give context and a foundation for interviews featuring many of the people who lived it.
Learn more about this series now at VOX Daily.
Voices.com To Sponsor and Speak at PodCamp London 2010
We're very excited to be part of PodCamp London 2010!
The event is being held on May 8, 2010 at the Convergence Centre in the UWO Research Park in London, Ontario Canada.
In addition to Voices.com's sponsorship of the event, I will be speaking and facilitating a masterclass style session for podcasters who want to improve their vocal performance and creative interpretation skills.
Find out more in today's VOX Daily.
101 Audio Pros on Twitter
We've heard from Dave DeAndrea about The Necessity of Social Networking. Dave gives you a number of tried, tested and true tips that will help you to