Edge Studio

Character and animation work is big. And it's growing. From children's interactive games to cartoons to animated movies, this type of work will continue to blossom - and perhaps you should consider it as a viable way to increase your work. That is, if you have the talent for this.

This document will define the difference between character and animation work, their applications, and how to "break-in."

Animation work is the development and delivery of imaginary voices - voices that do not exist in real life. Some popular animation voices include 'Bugs Bunny', 'Dumbo the Elephant', and 'Fred Flintstone'.

Character work is the development and delivery of real voices - voices that exist in real life. These range from using a New Yorker accent, a 'Cowboy' affectation, and even the stereotypical 'Plumber' dialect.

Animation and character work are used in productions ranging from interactive CD-ROM games, children's audio-books, commercials, talking toys, and cartoons.

To enter this industry, you'll first need a "Voice-Over Demo" which demonstrates a variety of different voices. Remember, the more variety you demonstrate, the greater your chance of getting work.

To produce your demo, you'll need a recording studio and a producer. BUT WE HIGHLY SUGGEST You begin with an evaluation to confirm you have what it takes for this type of work. (We are glad to help.)

NOTE: only use a recording studio and producer who specialize in this type of work. If they don't, your demo will likely not turn up as marketable as professional voice over artists who narrate character and animation voices.

When producing your demo, remember that it is like a resume - if it's too long, no one will listen to it. Therefore, it should be no longer than 1.5 minutes (preferably even one minute). And each different voice on the demo should be demonstrated for only 3 to 10 seconds.

You can write your own scripts, use real existing scripts, or use ours (ask us).

Once your demo is completed, you'll need to market it. Begin by determining who your contacts are. (On our website, you'll find a free listing of these - www.edgestudio.com)

Once your contact list is ready, it's time to market. Marketing is a whole other topic - we suggest our marketing seminars for details.

IN CLOSING:

To help you determine which are your most marketable voices, and to help fine-tune them, we suggest a couple of training sessions prior to producing your demo. We are always glad to help you accomplish this.

Good luck!

Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss voice over training programs - weekdays 9-5 ET:

New York training - 212-868-edge

Washington DC training - 202-398-edge

Connecticut training - 203-374-edge

Tele-Training - 888-321-edge