Whether the script you’re working with is a short commercial piece or a longer narration voice over job, you don’t have the leisure as a voice talent to develop the character as you read the script. You have to start out knowing who your character is, what the setting is, and what the purpose of the script is. There’s no time for fumbling through a read! Part of your practice before you even head into your recording book should involve answering those questions.
While it might not make sense to use method acting for voice overs, asking yourself what was going on the moment before the script picks up can help you flesh out a character or script you’re struggling with. Commercial scripts you’ll come across likely fall into one of two categories:
1) Your character is an archetype who represents with a specific complaint, situation or idea. If the specific script is in your niche, you probably know what to do with it.
2) The script is so short or vague that you’re not sure what to do with it! Sometimes copywriters don’t flesh out their vision as well as they think do, and you’re left wondering what they’re looking for.
In the second case, it’s especially helpful to imagine a back story to help you sound more natural.
Answer for yourself: where does the script take place? What was your character doing minutes before the script started? Who is the character talking to? Commit to a back story, and match your voice-over technique to fit the situation. Your pitch, volume, energy and attitude should match the character and situation in the script. If you do this, you’ll probably find that your performance becomes very natural after that!
Keep in mind that when you play it back, you may find your interpretation didn’t actually make sense at all. That’s OK! Tweak the back story and your character, but make sure to be specific with your interpretation. If you don’t commit to a firm story or character, it will never sound quite right.
Find out how to get the professional voice over jobs you want today! If you’re ready to take the next steps with your voice over career, find out what to do to ensure your success!