Part 9 of PML’s: How does a Voice Talent Prepare for a Session?

# 61- Max M.

We asked some of our top 100 voice talents to find out how they get ready for a voice session. Here is what Max says…

“1. Make sure my voice is "warmed-up" by doing a few basic vocal exercises.

2. Hydrate to make sure my voice is ready to respond to challenges.

3. When possible, I review the script and give it a quick "breakdown."

Other than that, I when in a session I listen to the producer and/or client and do my utmost to exceed their expectations.”

More responses from other talents are coming soon!

Jordan Eckenrode

Intern, Propulsion Media Labs

Part 8 of PML’s: How does a Voice Talent Prepare for a Session?

#4 – Lisa Lu.

We asked some of our top 100 voice talents to find out how they get ready for a voice session. Here is what Lisa says…

“I prepare for a voice over by first looking over the script. I figure out who my character is and what attitude I will need. Sometimes I might even create a back story for this character. I will envision things like what I’m wearing, who I’m talking to, etc…I will then mark the script in a color pen so that I know where certain inflections should go and whether they are up, down or medium. I will also prepare the studio and do some vocal warm-up exercises.”

More responses from other talents are coming soon!

Jordan Eckenrode

Intern, Propulsion Media Labs

Google+, the Next Best Social Media for Businesses?

Social Media sites have been around for over a solid ten years ever since gateway sites like Myspace and Xanga littered our monitors. Myspace has come and gone. Facebook is a must-have, and it seems like everyone and their grandma has a Twitter account. But, is Facebook’s moment of fame coming to a close?

Now Google+ is making it’s way into the main stream of social networking sites. But, how can Google+ help small companies? They can aid them just like how Facebook gave companies an online presence. However with Spark and the +1 button, Google+ does a lot of legwork for you because it links you to people and organizations that share your interests. The downside of Google+ is it doesn’t provide a private message function. If you want to talk to someone privately then you have to send an email (which is more professional anyway.)

A lot of people love the site so far because it looks appealing, it integrates well with other Google apps, and best of all there are no annoying third party apps yet. No more Farmville requests littering your notifications. Enjoy that while it lasts.

Jordan Eckenrode

Intern

Part 7 of PML’s: How does a Voice Talent Prepare for a Session

#5- Charlie G.

We asked some of our top 100 voice talents to find out how they get ready for a voice session. Here is what Charlie says...

“One of the convenient ways to prepare for a session is to download the script for reading off the computer screen. I use Google docs, but if a document attachment does not work that way, I use WORD or PDF. In any case, I do not have to worry about printing out a script, whether from home or on the road.

I always pre-read a script and practice for attitude, pace and timing before recording. Usually the producer has sent directions and has made me aware of what they are looking for, and, in the case of TV voiceover, the visuals are either displayed or described. I always like to offer several options on a read, and most clients appreciate this.

My job is to make it easy, pleasing and worry-free for the clients. With those goals in mind, preparation tends to take care of itself. But, I must say, I learn every day how to improve - and every situation keeps me on my toes!”

More responses from other talents are coming soon!

Jordan Eckenrode

Intern, Propulsion Media Labs

Part 6 of PML's: How does a Voice Talent Prepare for a Session?

#34- Jim J.

We asked some of our top 100 voice talents to find out how they get ready for a voice session. Here is what Jim says…

“As a working voice talent, the best way to prepare for a voice session is to get my copy as early as possible. I just can’t stress enough how important it is to get copy early. It allows to me to study the copy, take some practice takes for timing and really understand what they are trying to convey to the listener. After 20 years doing this, you learn quick that this is not always the case and you do the best you can with the prep time given. Also, just before a session begins, I like to take about 3 minutes and just relax to work out some of the nerves that come with different sessions. Yup, still get a tiny bit of butterflies after all these years. Guess some things will never change.”

More responses from other talents are coming soon!

Jordan Eckenrode

Intern, Propulsion Media Labs