2020 sounds so futuristic, doesn’t it? And in many ways, the future is here. Sure, we don’t have flying cars yet. Well, we kinda do, but not really. Technology has advanced exponentially in the last 20 years. And that includes the voice over world.
Once upon a time, we trained with a voice over coach. Had our demos professionally recorded and produced. Shopped around for an agent. And then audition. And audition. And audition. While it’s still important to receive voice over training and a polished demo, the voice over world is a different landscape. It no longer costs thousands of dollars to build a home studio. Heck, I think it cost me under $300. Auditions more often than not happen in the comfort of your own home, rather than traveling to a studio. And agents, while they still have a role to play, are not the only way to enjoy voiceover success. There are P2P sites like Voices.com and Voice123. There are freelance sites like Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer. And here’s a novel idea…working directly with the client. Let’s face facts, it’s a gig economy. And the VO industry isn’t quite sure how to deal with it. It’s like the record industry not prepared for mp3’s. It’s like Blockbuster blind to video streaming.
It’s, quite simply, change. And we need to change with it.
Personally, as a voice talent, I’m all for it. I love the fresh opportunities that weren’t there 20 years ago. Because of freelance sites, I’m able to work with people all over the world. I’m able to use vocal styles I never had the opportunity to use before. I’m able meet clients where they’re at financially, working with them within their budget.
Hey, this is a win-win for voice over artists. Those screaming about “undercutting” the industry rates need a wake-up call. Sure, maybe in some cases you have to lower your rates. But there are so many opportunities now for new clientele! Opportunities that never would have been there back in the day.
So my advice? Jump onto the Future Bus before you get left behind.
