So you want to be a voice actor?

Step 1: Start

Based on this post (http://imgur.com/gallery/wCi7TNk), a bunch of people asked for tips on getting started into voice acting. Now, I'm pretty new to the whole thing but happy to share some advice I've been given and the steps I took to start my own path. (EDIT: I'm no expert and there are tons of other resources out there for those who really want to learn - these are just based on my own experiences so please take them as such)

I'm 33 - I spent many years wanting to be a voice actor, and never doing a single thing about it. I always thought I'd be good at it but didn't know where to even start. At 30 I started taking improv classes as a creative outlet and it's one of the first things I will vouch for in terms of helping with voice acting. It has taught me how to be spontaneous and fun with my character choices, and how to switch things up on the fly. I highly recommend trying out some improv classes if you have access.

One day, during a bad depressive episode, I finally decided to start asking around. I know a lot of performers who were all very generous with advice and pointed me towards the lady who would become my voice coach. (If you want some suggestions, I recommend Sunday Muse or Melissa Altro who both offer remote sessions but there are many more!)

I can't stress enough how much having a voice coach helps. I thought I was good at voices, but it's so much more than that. It's sustaining, and technique, and placement, and breath, and saliva amounts. Many coaches will do skype sessions so even if you aren't in a city, don't let that stop you! Get a coach!!!

For those who say "well, it's too expensive so I guess I can't" - I worked 3 jobs during this time and cut a lot of expenses because this is something that was super important to me. It's not easy to chase what you want but it is possible.

Step 2: Failing sucks but it's ok!

It was pretty disheartening when I QUICKLY realized how hard it was. The first few coaching sessions I felt like an idiot. But don't give up. A lot of it feels weird and I definitely had a sore throat for weeks when I started because I had never used my vocal chords that way before. That's okay! Just keep at it!

Step 3: Practice practice practice

Listen to voices on the radio and in cartoons you like and now that you have some tools, try and pick out the little things they are doing. Find scripts and try some of your own voices on that text. Highlight the parts where you might want to add in effects, or different pacing. Read it happy, or sad, or like someone is trying to tickle your butt. They will all teach you different voices you can access.

Step 4: Demos and Agents

My coach worked with me to help write copy and with creating original characters for my demo. From what I know, most demos are 4-5 characters and you want to show a wide range (you can hear mine here: https://soundcloud.com/stephanie-malek/animation-demo) - I highly recommend you don't cheap out on this and that you work with a producer who is experienced in animation demos. You can get hired straight off your demo, and a bad one can keep you from getting work even if your voices are great.

For agents, look up agencies near you, and check their websites if they represent voice work. Many agencies will have demo submission information on their website. Ask around to your friends if anyone knows any agencies and can put in a good word for you (that helped me get mine!). ANY AGENT WHO ASKS YOU FOR MONEY IS NOT A GOOD AGENT. Don't do it. Keep shopping until you meet with someone who feels right for you.

Step 5: Auditions

These are where I just got to in this process. I've only been to two - one commercial and one animation. These are very nervewracking and I wish I had some tips for this other than drink lots of water, and spend lots of time practicing the different voices.

When you get in there, listen to their feedback and incorporate it. They want to see that, on top of having a good voice, they will be able to work with you and direct you easily!

I hope this helped a little! Keep at it! Follow your dreams! EDIT: Watch "I Know That Voice"!