[Perform-Talk] Question for You Experienced Voice Actors!

Fri Jan 15 16:31:31 UTC 2021

Another follow-up questions:
Do any of you have a booking agent?  Why, or why not?
Based on what I've been reading, I am hesitant to hire an agent because of all the pressure they could potentially put you under.  Maybe down the road I may get one, but my biggest concern and understanding is that the minute an agent sends you an audition, you must send it within five minutes or less of the time you receive it.  Also, you haveto be 10,000 percent exact in the way you send the audition: If they say upload it to an FTP server as a .flac file, you do that!
Not that I have a problem following directions: I'm just a bit anxious at the moment about the idea of using an agent to book auditions.  I know they aren't necessary,but it depends on the type of work you're doing.
What have your experiences been?
Annie

-----Original Message-----
From: Perform-Talk <perform-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Jana Jackson via Perform-Talk
Sent: Wednesday, January 13, 2021 4:59 PM
To: 'Performing Arts Division list' <perform-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Jana Jackson <jana at janajackson.com>
Subject: Re: [Perform-Talk] Question for You Experienced Voice Actors!

Hi, Annie! Of all of the sites you mentioned, I think Voices.com is by far the most accessible. I need to take a closer look at The Voice Realm, but so far, Voices.com wins hands-down for me. I wish all of these platforms paid more attention to accessibility, though. Like so many websites, it feels like accessibility is broken when updates are made. NFB is working to change that, and I hope their legislation includes companies that provide work-from-home opportunities!

Jana

-----Original Message-----
From: Perform-Talk <perform-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Anne Davis via Perform-Talk
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 10:09 PM
To: 'Performing Arts Division list' <perform-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Anne Davis <annedonnellon at gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Perform-Talk] Question for You Experienced Voice Actors!

Perhaps I already mentioned this, but I use Reaper.  Still figuring a few things out, but I really like it so far with what I know.
Now on the VoiceOver subject, which of the casting sites, if any do you find most accessible and do you get the most work?
I've gotten a few gigs from "clients" that I know, but as I get more into the field, I hear at least some of those casting sites are good:
Fiver, mixed feelings because people can do it for cheap.
I've also heard thevoicerealm.com is very good.
Still not sure what to think of voices.com and voices123.

-----Original Message-----
From: Perform-Talk <perform-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Brett Boyer via Perform-Talk
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 10:57 PM
To: 'Performing Arts Division list' <perform-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Brett Boyer <bboyer202 at gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Perform-Talk] Question for You Experienced Voice Actors!

I think discussions like these are great.
I still use a condenser microphone plugged in to a mixer, but that’s also because I do some hobby radio stuff from time to time, plus collaborate with other musicians.
I still use, God help me, my old PACMate 20 as a Braille display, it's quite low noise on microphone.
I use goldwave most of the time, but I also use Audacity for more elaborate productions.
For me, if you're getting good results than the technology you use doesn't always have to be the latest and greatest thing.

-----Original Message-----
From: Perform-Talk <perform-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Jana Jackson via Perform-Talk
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 6:49 PM
To: 'Performing Arts Division list' <perform-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Jana Jackson <jana at janajackson.com>
Subject: Re: [Perform-Talk] Question for You Experienced Voice Actors!

Hi, Annie and everyone! As a voice actor who uses both a Braille display and an embosser, I have really enjoyed this discussion!

While I've found that I prefer using my ancient Versapoint Duo Braille embosser most of the time, I'm getting more comfortable with using my Focus Blue Braille display. The latest generation is much quieter! With a bit of experimenting, I've found that I can usually make any little clicks go away that might try to show up in a recording.

Currently I feel like I have a bare-bones set-up in a way, but it works OK for now. I use GoldWave with a microphone that I will no doubt remember the brand just as soon as I hit Send! LOL! I remember it's something ATT2020, and it has a headphone jack that works great for recording voice-overs... But I'm drawing a total blank on the brand, so I guess I'll just send this email so I can think of it! LOL! But for whatever it's worth, I do find that the Focus Blue 5th Generation works well for reading scripts when necessary. Have a great week! 😊

Jana

-----Original Message-----
From: Perform-Talk <perform-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Anne Davis via Perform-Talk
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 8:31 AM
To: 'Performing Arts Division list' <perform-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Anne Davis <annedonnellon at gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Perform-Talk] Question for You Experienced Voice Actors!

Hi Cristina,
What you've said so far makes sense.
Thanks and hope to talk to you soon!
Annie

-----Original Message-----
From: Perform-Talk <perform-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Cristina Jones via Perform-Talk
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2021 8:46 AM
To: Performing Arts Division list <perform-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Cristina Jones <caldomo at gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Perform-Talk] Question for You Experienced Voice Actors!

Sorry, wasn’t being descriptive enough. Yes, there would be a gap between your hands and the blanket. This trick was told to me by a voice over artist who was helping me with setting up a makeshift home studio as I had to record an audio description for something and didn’t have sound proof anything. So he helped me with making a blanket fort and a makeshift sound proof studio so the recording would be of good quality for one, but also so that my display and fingers wouldn’tt be heard in the recording. It did work for what that’s worth.
Take care!
Cristina Jones
www.theblindsoprano.com
www.youtube.com/c/TheBlindSopranoCristinaJones

> On Jan 10, 2021, at 7:20 AM, Sandra Gayer via Perform-Talk <perform-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> 
> Hello Cristina,
> I'm sorry but I can't imagine how the blanket idea works, unless 
> there's a sizable gap between hands and blanket because your hands 
> move across the page or across the line, potentially taking the 
> blanket with them, or at least dragging against it. I had this 
> experience when drapping things over my head to reduce acoustic 
> reflexions. I bought things to help in the end which proved more 
> successful.
> 
> Very best wishes,
> Sandra.
> 
> On 1/10/21, Cristina Jones via Perform-Talk <perform-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>> I've personally found that not memorizing things tends to work best 
>> for the things I've done.
>> Also, to clarify, sorry, I meant about the blanket thing ... to drape 
>> it over your hands and the display as though you had your display 
>> under the covers with you and you're reading in bed. That type of 
>> thing. :) I don't thing I described it well before.
>> I usually sit at the edge of my chair and just really anchor myself 
>> with my legs.
>> 
>> Best:
>> Cristina Jones
>> +1(562) 308-7591
>> www.theblindsoprano.com
>> 
>> 
>> 
>>> On Jan 9, 2021, at 11:52 AM, Anne Davis via Perform-Talk 
>>> <perform-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Hi Sandra and everybody,
>>> Question about memorization: Coaches in the past have said we, as 
>>> voice actors are encouraged *not* to memorize scripts as clients may 
>>> change them at the last minute, which I try to respect.  Would you 
>>> say this is a 'sighted thing?'
>>> I have also been encouraged to "stand and deliver" versus reading 
>>> seated, unless you are absolutely unable to stand.  Obviously, when 
>>> singing I "stand deliver" (that is the phrase of the day) because I 
>>> get more support that way.
>>> What do you have to say about the memorization V. no memorization?
>>> Annie
>>> 
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: Perform-Talk <perform-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of 
>>> Sandra Gayer via Perform-Talk
>>> Sent: Saturday, January 09, 2021 5:34 AM
>>> To: Performing Arts Division list <perform-talk at nfbnet.org>
>>> Cc: Sandra Gayer <sandragayer7 at gmail.com>
>>> Subject: Re: [Perform-Talk] Question for You Experienced Voice Actors!
>>> 
>>> Hello Annie,
>>> I only use a Braille Display if I have no other choice. I tend to 
>>> emboss scripts, especially long form such as audiobooks. For short 
>>> commercials, I memorise them but my short term memory is good. Hands 
>>> travelling across the page can still be heard but the noise has less 
>>> of an impact on the listener. Distance between the microphone and 
>>> the unwanted noise source is key. My mic is on the desk while my 
>>> Braille script is on my lap under the desk. If I have to use a 
>>> Braille Display, I try and learn bits so that I can advance the line 
>>> during a gap in speaking which can be edited out later.
>>> 
>>> I hope some of this helps.
>>> Very best wishes,
>>> Sandra.
>>> 
>>>> On 1/9/21, Brett Boyer via Perform-Talk <perform-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>>>> I have done a few things. The first is to try to have the display 
>>>> as far away as possible. I have put the display on my lap.
>>>> If I'm standing I have a podium that I can lower, well it's more of 
>>>> a music stand.
>>>> I also use a condenser mic and I don't usually hear the clicks.
>>>> I know this goes without saying but you might have to just listen 
>>>> through your headphones and find the maximum distance that is still 
>>>> comfortable.
>>>> I know some of these are common sense, but I figured I should cover 
>>>> a few basic things.
>>>> I'm sure others will chime in.
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Perform-Talk <perform-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of 
>>>> Anne Davis via Perform-Talk
>>>> Sent: Friday, January 8, 2021 6:34 PM
>>>> To: perform-talk at nfbnet.org
>>>> Cc: Anne Davis <annedonnellon at gmail.com>
>>>> Subject: [Perform-Talk] Question for You Experienced Voice Actors!
>>>> 
>>>> Hey everybody!  I know some of you on here are VoiceOver artists 
>>>> and I have an important question, especially as it relates to the 
>>>> use of the braille display.
>>>> 
>>>> Currently, I have a chord whereby one end hooks up to my computer, 
>>>> the other end hooks into my BrailleSense.  This makes it a piece of 
>>>> cake in coaching sessions and when I’m practicing copy because I 
>>>> can just get right to it and read it right off my computer.  My 
>>>> only concern is when I record, the click-click-clicking of the 
>>>> braille display is heard crystal clear, which I realize could cause 
>>>> potential distraction to anyone listening.
>>>> 
>>>> How have you gotten around this?
>>>> 
>>>> Would you recommend using a braille display other than the 
>>>> BrailleSense?  I wonder if, for instance, one of the Brailliant 
>>>> models might be quieter?
>>>> 
>>>> I also emboss when necessary, especially if thereare things in the 
>>>> copy I need to mark, underline, or whatever.
>>>> 
>>>> But, as you may know,clients can change the script on you at the 
>>>> last minute and several times.
>>>> 
>>>> Any tips are greatly appreciated, on or offlist.
>>>> 
>>>> As for the Software I use and the mic: I have an AT2035 and I am 
>>>> using Reaper to record😊.
>>>> 
>>>> Thanks in advance!
>>>> 
>>>> Annie
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Perform-Talk mailing list
>>>> Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
>>>> for
>>>> Perform-Talk:
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/bboyer202
>>>> %40
>>>> gmail.com
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Perform-Talk mailing list
>>>> Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
>>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
>>>> for
>>>> Perform-Talk:
>>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/sandragay
>>>> er7
>>>> %40gmail.com
>>>> 
>>> 
>>> 
>>> --
>>> Sandra Gayer DipABRSM, LRSM.
>>> 
>>> Soprano Singer
>>> www.sandragayer.com
>>> 
>>> Broadcast Presenter
>>> www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk/music-box.html
>>> 
>>> Actor
>>> www.visablepeople.com
>>> 
>>> Voiceover Artist
>>> www.archangelvoices.co.uk/content/sandra-gayer
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Perform-Talk mailing list
>>> Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
>>> for
>>> Perform-Talk:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/annedonnel
>>> lon%40gmail.com
>>> 
>>> 
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Perform-Talk mailing list
>>> Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
>>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info 
>>> for
>>> Perform-Talk:
>>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/caldomo%40
>>> gmail.com
>> 
>> _______________________________________________
>> Perform-Talk mailing list
>> Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
>> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
>> Perform-Talk:
>> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/sandragayer
>> 7%40gmail.com
>> 
> 
> 
> --
> Sandra Gayer DipABRSM, LRSM.
> 
> Soprano Singer
> www.sandragayer.com
> 
> Broadcast Presenter
> www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk/music-box.html
> 
> Actor
> www.visablepeople.com
> 
> Voiceover Artist
> www.archangelvoices.co.uk/content/sandra-gayer
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Perform-Talk mailing list
> Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Perform-Talk:
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/caldomo%40gm
> ail.com

_______________________________________________
Perform-Talk mailing list
Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Perform-Talk:
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/annedonnellon%40gmail.com

_______________________________________________
Perform-Talk mailing list
Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Perform-Talk:
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/jana%40janajackson.com

_______________________________________________
Perform-Talk mailing list
Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Perform-Talk:
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/bboyer202%40gmail.com

_______________________________________________
Perform-Talk mailing list
Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Perform-Talk:
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/annedonnellon%40gmail.com

_______________________________________________
Perform-Talk mailing list
Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Perform-Talk:
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/jana%40janajackson.com

_______________________________________________
Perform-Talk mailing list
Perform-Talk at nfbnet.org
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/perform-talk_nfbnet.org
To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for Perform-Talk:
http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/perform-talk_nfbnet.org/annedonnellon%40gmail.com