How Voice Actors Study Their Lines

Similar to acting, voice acting requires actors to study and learn their lines in a certain way. They still need to sound convincing and in sync with the character they are lending their voice to, and be able to lend their voice to the character so completely that their voice is the character’s and no longer theirs.

Author James Alburger, himself also a voice actor and audio producer, offers some insight into this aspect of the art of professional voice over.

1. Study other performers

New and experienced actors alike have learned to do this quickly. Studying other performers allows one to pick up on new techniques and to discover that point where they become uncomfortable. They shouldn’t stop there, because to develop as a performer, they need to get past that point to where it isn’t uncomfortable anymore, so in effect, the talent is stretching his abilities.

2. Be willing to experiment and risk

The idea is to move beyond your comfort zone. Doing so allows you to learn more skills and stretch your vocal range, which will therefore allow you to be more marketable. Working in a studio, most of the time by yourself, makes it easier as a voice actor, as there is no need to worry about how you look to onlookers! Self-consciousness and inhibitions can be left outside the door.  Even better if you have your own professional home studio!

3. Treat every take as the first take

Having to do take after take can make one feel burnt out and get careless. If at all possible, voice actors avoid having to do revisions that will require them to record the same script again. However, if there’s anything constant about acting and voice acting, it’s that revisions and retakes are often required.

4. Act professional

James Alburger said, “making money does not make you a professional.” Voice acting, even from a home studio, is a business. When we act as professionals and have a professional approach with every script and recording we do, we are treated with respect and treated as pros, and more clients hire us. Business entities like dealing with professional people, professional voice over talents.

Four habits for learning your lines © The Voice Realm

What method works for you in learning your voice over lines?