How to audition for a voice acting role

Voice acting auditions are a great way to showcase your vocal talents and experience in the industry. It is important to have an understanding of what is expected of you for a voice-acting audition and how to best prepare for it. Familiarizing yourself with the scripts, characters, and genre you are auditioning for is essential as it will help demonstrate your vocal range and ability. 

We’ll be covering these points as we move ahead to understand what exactly is a voice-over audition. Additionally, it's important to practice your lines before attending the audition and be prepared to show your enthusiasm and passion for the role. Doing the necessary research and preparation before the voice acting audition will help ensure that you make a great first impression on the casting directors and increase your chances of success.

What are voice-acting auditions?

Voice acting auditions are an integral part of the voice acting process and require proper preparation. Voice actors should be familiar with creating demo reels, submitting to online casting platforms, and attending in-person auditions. It is important to understand the expectations of the potential client and to ensure that your sample accurately reflects your talents. To ensure the best possible audition, voice actors should practice their samples prior to submitting them for review. Ultimately, the effort that a voice actor puts into their audition can make all the difference when it comes to landing the job.

If you're starting out as a voice actor, you've got a lot of work to do.

And that's not just because of the preparation required for auditions—you also need to make sure you're comfortable with your own voice, and ready to get started in the industry. 

Here are some things to keep in mind before you start getting auditions:

Learn the three most important skills: 

There are certainly important skills you need to focus on, in order to be successful in any voice acting audition. The three below-mentioned skills are pre-requisite.

  A. Acting skills

Acting skills are essential for voice-acting auditions, as they help to bring the script to life and create a believable performance. Voice actors should have public speaking skills, creativity, memorization skills, physical stamina, and an emotional range. Additionally, voice actors should research their characters, warm up their voices, immerse themselves in the role, and take acting classes to improve their skills. Training by acting different characters and their voices can act as a great way to improve your acting skills. Also, hiring a professional voice-over coach or attending different workshops on voice acting & auditioning is a great way to learn.

  B. Technical Skills

As a voice actor, it's essential to be well-versed in the latest technology. The process of recording audio and delivering the final recording involves types of equipment and software. Learning about these types of equipment and software helps in increasing the quality of your work & helps to enhance your career as a voice actor. A microphone is probably the most important thing you'll need for recording. You can get away with using just about any decent microphone for voiceovers or podcasts if you stick with something cheap or inexpensive—just make sure the mic is XLR compatible so it will work with your computer's interface card.

Popular voice recording software for voice actors in 2023 include Audacity, Adobe Audition, Pro Tools, Studio One, Logic Pro, Sound forge, Movavi Video Editor, speechify & wonder share demo creator. You can start by learning some basic software available to mix and edit your clips.

  C. Understanding the Industry

Understanding the voice-acting industry is a critical part of running a successful voice-acting business. Voice actors are equal to an entrepreneur and as an entrepreneur, you will be responsible for sales, marketing, customer service, and accounting. You should take time to research the industry and understand what it takes to establish a strong presence as a voice actor. This will help ensure that your product - your voice - is well received by potential clients and that you are able to build and maintain relationships with them.

1. Get Professional Training

Voice acting classes can be extremely valuable for anyone who is looking to break into the voice-over industry, as they provide a comprehensive training program that can help them build a career as a professional. Voice acting courses online can boost a voice acting career by providing a strong foundation in acting techniques, character development, and industry exposure. Dedicating your time and energy to these lessons can open up endless opportunities for you in the field of voice-over. Additionally, enrolling in voice acting classes will allow you to acquire important knowledge and skills which are essential for any aspiring voice actor. Therefore, it is clear that the importance of voice acting classes for anyone looking for a breakthrough in the voice-over industry cannot be understated. By developing a better understanding, you can stand out in voice-over auditions.

2. Get a decent set of equipment

To start voice acting, the essential equipment includes a computer, reliable internet access, a microphone, a microphone stand, a pop filter, headphones, a preamp, and tripod stands. The best microphone for voice acting depends on the budget and needs of the user. For beginners, the Audio-Technica AT2020 USB or the Rode NT1A are good choices for those on a budget, while the Behringer UM2 interface and MXLV67G are good options for those with limited funds.

What is a voice-over demo reel?

If you’re new to the world of voice acting, you might wonder: what is a demo reel or showreel? 

A voice-over demo reel is an essential tool for any professional voice-over artist. It is a comprehensive compilation of a voice-over actor's best work that can be used to showcase their skills and talents to potential clients. It also serves as a perfect way to send an “audition” to interested parties. 

A well-crafted reel will feature samples of the artist's work in various styles and genres, allowing the client to gain a better understanding of the type of work the artist can provide. By creating a high-quality voice-over demo reel, artists can craft a powerful portfolio that will help them to stand out from the rest and rise to success.

 It is the equivalent of a headshot, an audition reel, and a business card all in one, and can be the only introduction a client has to your work. Therefore, it is essential that your reel is professional, clear, branded, well-edited, and under 90 seconds.

To create a voice-over demo reel, one should purchase recording equipment and download the applicable software, find a quiet place to record, prepare content to read, and record. Additionally, it is important to plan the demo, research the industry, get involved with online communities, attend industry events, submit the demo to casting websites, and work with a voice-over coach or mentor if possible. 

What are the different niches voice actors can audition for?

Voiceover actors have an opportunity to take on a variety of professional audio projects. It is a great way to gain experience and hone their craft across different genres in voice acting. There is something for everyone, providing voiceover actors with a wealth of opportunities to showcase their talent and expand their portfolios.

The different types of niches are:

• Animation
• Video games 
• Commercials 
• Corporate
• Promo
• E-learning
• Health and wellness videos 
• GPS & virtual assistants
• Virtual realities
• AudioBooks 

Tips to audition for a voice acting role

Here is a list of helpful tips to successfully audition for a voice acting role:

1. Record a quality voice-over demo

A quality voice-over demo can be a good first impression on the talent scouts, casting directors, and potential clients. Voice actor must use their best voice work in the demo reel to show their real potential. A demo typically consists of several different character voices that show your vocal range and acting abilities. Demos often combine voice-acting roles, including advertising, narration, and animated characters. Once you gain experience and samples from professional work, you can remake your demo to reflect your field expertise more accurately. The quality of your demo is a crucial factor in determining your performance in any voice-acting audition.

2. Market yourself

In order to create a good image in front of the employer or the client while applying for an audition, you can also use references of your previous works done for different clients. You can attach the link to different characters or voices you have voiced earlier in your carrier. Also, you can create your own website on free platforms like Wix & google Sites. By creating your own website you can market yourself as a voice actor & showcase your best work samples.

3.Vocal Exercises

Vocal exercises help voice actors to open up their vocal cords and control breathing. These factors help in better performance in auditions. The more you tone your vocal folds, the more versatile your voice-acting capabilities will be. All the while, diligently running through a series of vocal warm-up exercises every time before you’re planning on an extended vocal session reduces your chances of injury. Doing vocal warmups will help you in delivering your best performance.

 4. Reading the Script: 

Apart from auditions, you will be handed a script by the casting director or the employer. In a voice-acting audition, reading a script is an important part of the process. Before you start, it's important to take some time to read through the script, familiarizing yourself with the text. Once you feel comfortable with the script, practice speaking it out loud. Doing so will help you get a feel for how the words sound and how to best deliver your lines. Pay special attention to any instructions written in the script as these will help you to understand the intended tone and emotion of the piece. Finally, make sure to practice at a tempo that is comfortable for you. This will ensure that you are able to deliver your lines in a natural and confident way.

5. Stay consistent & confident:

When auditioning for a voice acting role, it is important to project confidence and consistency. When you enter the audition, present yourself in a professional manner and be sure to make eye contact with the casting director. Speak clearly and confidently, and make sure to project your voice. It is important to have a consistent tone and delivery throughout your audition. Be sure to emphasize the emotion of the lines you are reading to give your audition an extra boost. Lastly, be confident in your abilities and trust in yourself. With the right preparation and attitude, you can make a great impression and land the role.

6. Pay close attention to the instructions

Another important thing to do is to pay attention to the director’s instructions. They will be able to give you tips on how to make the best performance. They might emphasize certain words or use a certain inflection. If you can follow their instructions, you will be able to give a great audition. Also, it is important to have a presence. This means that you should be engaging and present at the moment. You should be focused on the character and the scene and not be distracted. This will help you to bring the character to life and give a believable and memorable performance. 

7. Don’t be afraid of rejections

Voice-over auditions can be intimidating and it's natural to be scared of rejections. But it's important to remember that rejection is part of the process and ultimately can be a blessing in disguise. You have to put yourself out there, take risks, and learn from any mistakes or rejections you experience. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and audition, because you never know what could come from it. Keep practicing, and stay open to feedback &  you’ll definitely excel.

8. Use quality equipment:

If you’re serving as your own audio engineer in a home studio, it’s important to use the best equipment. Voice acting auditions require  quality equipment to properly showcase a talent's ability. Poorly-maintained or low-quality microphones can lead to a distorted sound, resulting in a failed audition.  Additionally, a poor recording space can make it difficult for the casting director to hear the true voice of the actor.  To ensure success, it is important to invest in quality equipment to ensure the best possible performance during the audition.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to audition for a voice acting role

Q: How can I prepare for a voice-acting audition?
A: Prepare by practicing your vocal range, studying the script, and understanding the character you're auditioning for to deliver a compelling performance.

Q: What equipment do I need for a voice-acting audition at home?
A: You'll need a good-quality microphone, headphones, and audio recording software to create professional-sounding auditions from home.

Q: What should I include in my voice acting audition demo reel?
A: Showcase your versatility by including a variety of character voices and styles that highlight your talent and range.

Q: What are casting directors looking for in a voice-acting audition?
A: They seek strong vocal skills, the ability to convey emotion, and the capacity to bring characters to life authentically.

Q: Where can I find voice acting auditions?

A: Audition opportunities can be found on websites like Casting Call Club, Voice123, Backstage, and through talent agencies. Social media platforms and industry forums may also share audition notices.

Q: Should I have a demo reel for voice acting auditions?

A: Yes, a well-produced demo reel showcasing your versatility as a voice actor is crucial. It should include various character voices, accents, and emotional range. A professional demo reel can significantly boost your chances.

Q: Are there any common mistakes to avoid during voice acting auditions?

A: Avoid background noise, poor recording quality, or over-editing your submission. Always follow the audition instructions carefully and meet deadlines. Also, remember to act naturally and convey emotions genuinely.

Q: How can I improve my chances of success in voice acting auditions?

A: Continuously practice and hone your skills. Take acting classes, workshops, and voice coaching if possible. Network with industry professionals and build a strong online presence to increase your visibility.

Q: How do I handle rejection in voice acting auditions?

A: Rejection is a common part of the industry. Use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Keep auditioning and refining your skills, as success often comes with persistence and perseverance.