5 Acting Techniques for Voice Artists to Get into Character

Voice artists are extraordinarily gifted and adaptable. They alternate between announcing PSAs (Public Service Announcements) and sobbing uncontrollably as they read the lines of their character, a wife who has just discovered her husband is cheating on her. Recording voice-overs for television and radio commercials, as well as AVPs, is difficult because it requires voice artists to prepare and read the script numerous times, as well as double-check technical aspects if they are recording from home. However, voice acting is a different level of difficulty, as it entails the profession of knowing and inhabiting another character.

Certain individuals in show business possess what is referred to as ‘inborn talent,’ which enables them to instantly assume character the moment they step onto the stage or when a camera is pointed at them. However, the majority of people lack the discipline necessary to take the necessary steps toward developing their character.

Both voice artists and actors/actresses have their own customized routines for transforming into their roles; these routines can range from a five-minute facial expression exercise and vocal warmups to a 30-minute meditation in complete silence. Here are five acting techniques you can use to more easily and quickly enter character: 

1. As a voice artist, you should have completed your assignments prior to entering the studio: thoroughly read the script, educate yourself about your character, and immerse yourself in the life of your character. Sounds straightforward, doesn’t it? 

However, once you attempt this, you will discover that it is more complicated. A professional voice artist would first read the script to ascertain the emotions and motivations of his character, and then gradually practice it with the appropriate speed, intonation, pitch, and loudness/softness of his voice.

2. Leave Yourself at the Door and Concentrate 

A voice artist must temporarily forget who he is in order to be someone else. You must go above and beyond and demonstrate your commitment to your character’s role by putting aside your own beliefs, preferences, and personality. Once inside the studio, concentrate on your routine for entering character and fully immersing yourself in your character’s perspective. This means that you don’t interpret the emotions through your own experiences and perspectives in life, but rather through the eyes of the character you’re portraying.

3. Visualize Your Character 

To gain a better understanding of the character, voice actors attempt to visualize the character they are portraying. They find it beneficial to visualize the character’s physical appearance and interactions in order to generate the most appropriate voice for the character.

Another effective technique for visualizing one’s character is to move in their manner. Do not be afraid to experiment with various body movements, hand gestures, and facial expressions while reading the script and delivering your best performance inside the recording booth. These gestures will enliven your delivery and complete the act of reflecting your character’s actions solely through the use of your voice.

4. Pay Close Attention to the Words and Their Destination 

The words in the script are a literal reflection of the character’s motivation for progressing. This awareness enables you to be critical of your character and others’ actions. With this in mind, you can navigate the scene’s objective (Acting 101). However, keep in mind to reflect as your character and not as yourself to prevent yourself from thinking about other unrelated things. Simply concentrate on the lines and deliver them consistently so that your audience can identify with and connect with them.

5. As Pocholo “The VoiceMaster” Gonzales once stated, “voice artists are god’s voice.” 

It is voice artists who dictate what to wear, what to purchase, and what to eat, among other things. If you do not believe in your own voice, how can you expect others to?

Read your lines and believe in your ability to voice your character. Confidence is critical in bringing your character to life and convincing the audience. Believe in your voice and your LCD — as a voice artist, Love, Commitment, and Dedication.