Jim Conlan       Voice-Over Artist

2-2-09

What makes a voice- over a voice-over?

Voiceovers are an essential part of a great many forms of communication.  Although there are lots of differences among various types of voice talent, they all share one goal: to communicate clearly and memorably.

They also share one challenge: to communicate without being seen - they are simply a "voice," unsupported by facial or body gestures... READ MORE...

2-6-09

Understanding Your Voice

Not everybody has an “announcer” voice – if you don’t, does that mean you can’t be a voice talent?  The truth is, your voice is usually just fine for doing voice overs.  This is because a good voice-over artist combines four elements to achieve a great performance: voice, talent, personality, and style.  Think about Fran Drescher, and you can see how powerful this combination can be, even with a really odd voice... READ MORE...

2-2-09

Announcing vs. Voice Acting

Just as there are lots of ways to be employed as a voice-over talent, there are lots of ways to think of yourself as a voice-over talent.  The most basic distinction is whether you call yourself an announcer or a voice actor... READ MORE...

2-6-09

The Basic Mechanics of Voice Overs

For some time I have been providing my workshop participants and private clients with this handy list I call the "Elements of Good Voice-Over Practice."  I wish I had a catchier title.  Maybe "The Voice-Over Artist's Tool Kit" is better.  Please feel free to comment on these observations and add your own... READ MORE...

9-10-09

NEW! The Demo Behind the Demo

Never before have newcomers to the voice-over industry had so much helpful information in putting their demos together.  There’s lots of great advice out there on how to match your style to the work that’s available – and how to engineer your demo so it sounds national from start to finish.

But (you knew there was a “but”) there’s one aspect of putting together a great demo that I think needs more attention.  I call it “the Demo behind the Demo.”  When you submit your demo, the unspoken agreement between you and the voice seeker is that if they hire you, you’ll be able to perform as brilliantly and effortlessly as your demo suggests...  READ MORE...