Author: Allison Latta, Editor: Destini Huston
What’s the difference between preparing for a voiceover and an on-camera audition? Many people think that the preparation for voice acting is less than the preparation for being in front of the camera. You don’t have to remember anything, you can wear whatever you want, right? This part is correct. Still, I believe the preparation for a voiceover audition and on-camera is the same.
When I receive a script for a shot or narration, I first try to understand the meaning every word. For example, check the pronunciation of company names, drugs, uncommon phrases, and more. Especially for voiceovers, I also mark some breathing moments in longer scripts.
For on-camera auditions, I prefer to know the script. I try to make sure I remember every word.
When I fully memorize it, it becomes easier for me to physically play and find ways to “make the script my own.” When a casting director asks, I like to be able to give them a variety of options. In the audition room (or even over Zoom), a big part of acting is telling a story through movement choice and action. Here my body is seen.
In contrast, there is no need to memorize VO scripts. Really, don’t waste your time.
Voiceover scripts can be lengthy, and luckily I was lucky enough to have the script in hand when I auditioned. Most VO auditions are now recorded and submitted via email, so find the preparation process that works best for you! That doesn’t mean I shouldn’t be familiar with the text. Knowing what you’re talking about is key.
Interestingly, I find that memorizing a voiceover script puts me in a rut and causes my reading to stagnate. When asked, I would like to offer a few different perspectives. So I mapped out and marked a lot of strong choices on the script. Physical contact with the voiceover script is crucial to a detailed vocal performance. Move your microphone around your home and In the booth, because physical contact affects the way you speak. Although the casting directors wouldn’t see my physical choices (like they would on camera), they certainly would hear them. In this case, my body was heard.
Although I sometimes attend voice-over auditions in my pajamas, I take my performance as seriously as I do in front of the camera. So, when you’re auditioning for voiceover and photogenic work, get physical is a major part of your audition. The work is always there – even if you can’t see it, you can hear it.
