Written by Allison Latta, edited by Destini Huston
What’s the distinction between getting ready for voice over vs on-camera auditions? Lots of people assume that preparation for VO is one way or the other much less concerned than on-camera. You aren’t required to memorize something and you’ll put on no matter you need, proper? That is partly true. Nonetheless, I’m satisfied that there’s equal prep concerned in a VO audition as there may be for one on digicam.
After I obtain a script, for digicam or VO, I first attempt to perceive the that means of each single phrase. As an example, checking on pronunciations for firm names, drugs, much less frequent phrases, and many others. Moreover, I discover completely different factors of view and appearing decisions that I could make, marking my script as wanted. For voiceover particularly, I mark wordier scripts with moments to breathe as nicely.
For on-camera auditions, I desire to know the script chilly. I work exhausting to make it possible for I’ve each phrase memorized.
After I’m totally memorized, I’m way more relaxed about bodily enjoying and discovering methods to “make the script my very own”. I need to have the ability to current numerous choices to the casting director when requested. Within the audition room (and even by way of Zoom), an enormous a part of performing is the way you inform the story by way of motion decisions and actions. Right here, my physicality is seen.
Conversely, there isn’t any must memorize VO scripts. Actually, don’t waste your time.
VO scripts could be a lot wordier, and fortunately I’ve the luxurious of holding the script after I audition. Now that almost all VO auditions are recorded and submitted by way of e mail, discover the preparation course of that works greatest for you! That doesn’t imply I shouldn’t familiarize myself with the textual content. Realizing what you’re saying is vital.
Apparently, I’ve discovered that memorizing VO scripts makes me slip right into a routine and ship a stagnant learn. I need to present a number of completely different takes when requested. Due to this fact, I’ve numerous sturdy decisions mapped out and marked on my script. Bodily participating with VO scripts is important for a nuanced vocal efficiency. Be happy to maneuver on-mic at house and within the sales space, as a result of participating bodily impacts the way you say the textual content. Though casting administrators gained’t see my bodily decisions (as they might on digicam), they’ll positively hear it. On this case, my physicality is heard.
Although I generally put on pajamas for a VO audition, I put the identical care in my efficiency as I might for on-camera. So, while you audition for voice over vs on-camera work, getting bodily is a significant a part of your audition. The work is at all times there- even should you don’t see it, you’ll be able to hear it.
