Holy hail & sleet, Batman! It is uber-crappy out there today, but I have braved the elements to be in NYC for two recording sessions. So, we are broadcasting LIVE from the lobby of CityVox in Midtown Manhattan.
Last week I had a great recording session with my friend Lisa Desimone. She is a great talent and one of the groovier people I know. It was an e-learning session and we recorded a bunch small vignettes as well as lists (see my GKN entry from a few weeks ago to learn about the magic of narrating lists!). Anyway, when we recorded these lists we had to take turns saying the terms for each list. I gotta tell you, stuff like that is so much easier when you're working with a real pro like Lisa. She worked off of my rhythm, my pitch, and my mood to complement me perfectly! We flowed back and forth so easily it was virtually flawless. You rock, Lisa!
TIP OF THE WEEK: The scariest experience I've ever had in my professional life is when I was acting on stage and my scene partner was looking right through me when we interacted. She wasn't even remotely in the moment and wasn't "listening" to me at all. She was just waiting for me to finish my lines so she could say hers. It was awful! Acting is reacting, my friends. You need to listen to your partner and incorporate it into your performance, even if it's just reading a list. I'm not saying you have to turn it into a freaking Meisner exercise. Just remember that you're not the only one in the room.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: If she breaks my heart I'll love it because I'll know where it takes me. Christopher Cook
STUFF!: What's the best acting experience you ever had with a partner? The worst?
From the CityVox lobby, this is Tom Dheere, GKN News...
The Good Karma Network is an entertainment industry support group. We're here to help each other cast projects, get cast in projects, advertise the projects we get cast in, and share tips and tricks to succeeding in our field.
Showing posts with label voice acting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label voice acting. Show all posts
Monday, November 8, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
GKN Weekly Update 2/22/10
Well, it's that time of year: TAX TIME!!!
I'm going to see my accountant this afternoon to get my taxes done. So, for those of you who've never filed your taxes as a performance artist, let's cover the basics...
Most of the time, actors and voiceover talents don't have their taxes taken out from their paychecks. They issue W-9 forms to their clients and get 1099 forms at the end of the year. You should get one from every client who paid you more than $600 last year.
You'd be amazed at what you can write off! Among other things, I track mileage, tolls, parking, mailings, office supplies, and fees such as Voice123 membership and PayPal fees. This stuff adds up quickly!
If you work from home and have a designated office space/recording area, you can write off a % of your rent/mortgage. It's based on square footage used as office space.
TIP OF THE WEEK: I strongly recommend setting up a quarterly estimated tax payment plan. That way you won't have to pay your taxes in one lump sum come April 15. Pay around 10-20% of your income each quarter. Trust me, it eases the pain when you have to pay up!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Be a vigorous dancer. However, you’re under no obligation to join a conga line. Walker Lamond
STUFF!: Please go see "Transition" (the film I was the Assistant Director for) at the 6th NYC Downtown Short Film Festival Audience Choice Screenings on Thursday, February 25. It will be one of four films screened that evening and the films with the most votes wins a slot in a film festival! Tickets are sold out but I may be able to wrangle some for you if you want to go. Let me know...
Have a great week!
I'm going to see my accountant this afternoon to get my taxes done. So, for those of you who've never filed your taxes as a performance artist, let's cover the basics...
Most of the time, actors and voiceover talents don't have their taxes taken out from their paychecks. They issue W-9 forms to their clients and get 1099 forms at the end of the year. You should get one from every client who paid you more than $600 last year.
You'd be amazed at what you can write off! Among other things, I track mileage, tolls, parking, mailings, office supplies, and fees such as Voice123 membership and PayPal fees. This stuff adds up quickly!
If you work from home and have a designated office space/recording area, you can write off a % of your rent/mortgage. It's based on square footage used as office space.
TIP OF THE WEEK: I strongly recommend setting up a quarterly estimated tax payment plan. That way you won't have to pay your taxes in one lump sum come April 15. Pay around 10-20% of your income each quarter. Trust me, it eases the pain when you have to pay up!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Be a vigorous dancer. However, you’re under no obligation to join a conga line. Walker Lamond
STUFF!: Please go see "Transition" (the film I was the Assistant Director for) at the 6th NYC Downtown Short Film Festival Audience Choice Screenings on Thursday, February 25. It will be one of four films screened that evening and the films with the most votes wins a slot in a film festival! Tickets are sold out but I may be able to wrangle some for you if you want to go. Let me know...
Have a great week!
Monday, February 15, 2010
GKN Weekly Update 2/15/10
Happy Valentine's Day!
I hope everyone had a wonderful time and got all of the chocolate, flowers, and adoration they deserve.
So, last week I sent out my quarterly newsletter, "The Rognog". It was well-received and thanks to those of you who wrote those kind replies. I had some trouble sending it out, though. My number of contacts have grown so much that Outlook/ACT! can't seem to handle it anymore. ACT! kept crashing and Outlook only allows you to send out 50 emails at a time. Fellow GKN member Jeff Kafer recommended Vertical Response so I'm definitely going to use that next time.
TIP OF THE WEEK: I really enjoy writing my newsletter. It gives me a chance to reflect on my recent accomplishments and plan for the future. I think it's really important to take stock once in a while to see where you're at. Are you ahead of schedule when it comes to your goals? Behind? What's working? What isn't?
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The person who wrote the advertisements is without doubt the most ignorant person now alive on the planet; also without doubt he is an idiot, an idiot of the 33rd degree, and scion of an ancestral procession of idiots stretching back to the Missing Link. Mark Twain
STUFF!: All In One Collectibles (my friend Mike's store) will be running many events this week at Dreamation, an annual gaming convention in Morristown at the Hyatt. I'll be there to help out and I encourage all you geeks to head on down!. Go to dexposure.com/d2010.html to learn more.
Have a great week!
I hope everyone had a wonderful time and got all of the chocolate, flowers, and adoration they deserve.
So, last week I sent out my quarterly newsletter, "The Rognog". It was well-received and thanks to those of you who wrote those kind replies. I had some trouble sending it out, though. My number of contacts have grown so much that Outlook/ACT! can't seem to handle it anymore. ACT! kept crashing and Outlook only allows you to send out 50 emails at a time. Fellow GKN member Jeff Kafer recommended Vertical Response so I'm definitely going to use that next time.
TIP OF THE WEEK: I really enjoy writing my newsletter. It gives me a chance to reflect on my recent accomplishments and plan for the future. I think it's really important to take stock once in a while to see where you're at. Are you ahead of schedule when it comes to your goals? Behind? What's working? What isn't?
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: The person who wrote the advertisements is without doubt the most ignorant person now alive on the planet; also without doubt he is an idiot, an idiot of the 33rd degree, and scion of an ancestral procession of idiots stretching back to the Missing Link. Mark Twain
STUFF!: All In One Collectibles (my friend Mike's store) will be running many events this week at Dreamation, an annual gaming convention in Morristown at the Hyatt. I'll be there to help out and I encourage all you geeks to head on down!. Go to dexposure.com/d2010.html to learn more.
Have a great week!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Monday, February 8, 2010
GKN Weekly Update 2/8/10
Happy Post-Super Bowl Day! Did you have a good time last night? I was rooting for the Colts. Alas...
Last week was pretty great. For the first time, every voiceover gig I booked I recorded from home. I know that's commonplace for many of my peers, but it's a big deal for me. One of my goals this year is to book more sessions from home instead of traveling to remote studios. No, it's not because I'm a lazy bum (I am, but that's beside the point). It's because it reflects the fact that I've broadened my client base. It's nice to see some of that cold-calling & networking pay off!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Routines are good. Comfort zones are good. Structure is good. What's even better is when you change your routine, you venture out of your comfort zone, or when you break up your structure. Your brain thrives when exposed to change. It's like trying a new type of food and loving it. Feed your brain!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Remember, the girl you’re with is somebody’s sister. And he’s perfectly capable of kicking your ass. Walker Lamond
STUFF!: Movies seem to keep popping up here but it's what I love! Last week I enjoyed "Tales of the Black Freighter", the animated companion story to "Watchmen". It was pretty good, but what was even better was the faux-documentary "Under The Hood" which was also on the DVD. It was geek-fare, but it was darn good!
Have a great week!
Last week was pretty great. For the first time, every voiceover gig I booked I recorded from home. I know that's commonplace for many of my peers, but it's a big deal for me. One of my goals this year is to book more sessions from home instead of traveling to remote studios. No, it's not because I'm a lazy bum (I am, but that's beside the point). It's because it reflects the fact that I've broadened my client base. It's nice to see some of that cold-calling & networking pay off!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Routines are good. Comfort zones are good. Structure is good. What's even better is when you change your routine, you venture out of your comfort zone, or when you break up your structure. Your brain thrives when exposed to change. It's like trying a new type of food and loving it. Feed your brain!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Remember, the girl you’re with is somebody’s sister. And he’s perfectly capable of kicking your ass. Walker Lamond
STUFF!: Movies seem to keep popping up here but it's what I love! Last week I enjoyed "Tales of the Black Freighter", the animated companion story to "Watchmen". It was pretty good, but what was even better was the faux-documentary "Under The Hood" which was also on the DVD. It was geek-fare, but it was darn good!
Have a great week!
Monday, February 1, 2010
GKN Weekly update 2/1/10
And a happy post-Grammy, post-Pro Bowl day to you! I hope everybody picked a winner...
So, the grand experiment of tracking my networking & auditions is over. Here is the grand total: I reached out to exactly 120 potential and existing clients in January. That included cold calls, query emails, auditions, callbacks, and follow-ups. That's six reach-outs a day. Is that a good number? I'm not sure. I guess the important question is: did I get work? The answer is yes. Enough work to make the effort worthwhile? Only time will tell. Sometimes years pass before a cold call turns into a paying gig. I would like to think I'm on the right track...
TIP OF THE WEEK: Some of my industry friends poke fun at me for being so analytical when it comes to running my business. I've been told I'm "anal" and "too structured". You know what? I'm totally fine with it! If you are self-employed and trying to make it as an actor, model, dancer, VO talent, etc., you are a business. Act like it! You need a business plan, a budget, a realistic vision. OK, we're artists, we march to the beat of a different drum. Fine, I get it. But that doesn't mean you have to rebel against everything that's organized because it make you feel restricted or less free to express yourself. Please.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: If you work really hard and you're kind, amazing things will happen. Conan O'Brien
STUFF!: I saw "The Book of Eli" last week. I always look forward to Denzel Washington movies because he's such a great actor and he picks interesting projects. I'm sorry, but this one was pretty bad! It was a poor attempt at going for a Mad Max post-apocalyptic setting with a religious twist. Denzel was great, Gary Oldman was great (he's one of my favorite actors), and yes, another Tom Waits sighting! But this one fell short.
Have a great week!
So, the grand experiment of tracking my networking & auditions is over. Here is the grand total: I reached out to exactly 120 potential and existing clients in January. That included cold calls, query emails, auditions, callbacks, and follow-ups. That's six reach-outs a day. Is that a good number? I'm not sure. I guess the important question is: did I get work? The answer is yes. Enough work to make the effort worthwhile? Only time will tell. Sometimes years pass before a cold call turns into a paying gig. I would like to think I'm on the right track...
TIP OF THE WEEK: Some of my industry friends poke fun at me for being so analytical when it comes to running my business. I've been told I'm "anal" and "too structured". You know what? I'm totally fine with it! If you are self-employed and trying to make it as an actor, model, dancer, VO talent, etc., you are a business. Act like it! You need a business plan, a budget, a realistic vision. OK, we're artists, we march to the beat of a different drum. Fine, I get it. But that doesn't mean you have to rebel against everything that's organized because it make you feel restricted or less free to express yourself. Please.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: If you work really hard and you're kind, amazing things will happen. Conan O'Brien
STUFF!: I saw "The Book of Eli" last week. I always look forward to Denzel Washington movies because he's such a great actor and he picks interesting projects. I'm sorry, but this one was pretty bad! It was a poor attempt at going for a Mad Max post-apocalyptic setting with a religious twist. Denzel was great, Gary Oldman was great (he's one of my favorite actors), and yes, another Tom Waits sighting! But this one fell short.
Have a great week!
Monday, January 25, 2010
GKN Weekly Update 1/25/10
Hello, my soggy friends! A bit dampish today, ain't it?
I just trudged through the rain to get to a recording session in NYC. It's the one I can't talk about. BUT I can tell you it's for a upcoming video game for Rockstar Games. That's all I got. I'll give you more info when I can!
TIP OF THE WEEK: I've done a few video games but I had no idea how important keeping their content a secret is! Go to Patent Arcade to see what I'm talking about. Yikes! These guys aren't messing around. Everybody wants to be in the know and act like a big shot but sometimes it just isn't worth it. Keeping a secret is a quality that most people look for in others. I'm good at keeping every one's secrets but my own. How about you?
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Don't spit. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
STUFF!: I saw "The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus" last week. This was Heath Ledger's last film. Terry Gilliam used Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrel to finish it since Heath passed before it was completed. Let me tell you, the way it was shot was brilliant! They should have done it that way regardless. Between that and the supporting cast of Christopher Plummer, Verne Troyer, and the incomparable Tom Waits as the devil makes it a must-see.
Have a great week!
I just trudged through the rain to get to a recording session in NYC. It's the one I can't talk about. BUT I can tell you it's for a upcoming video game for Rockstar Games. That's all I got. I'll give you more info when I can!
TIP OF THE WEEK: I've done a few video games but I had no idea how important keeping their content a secret is! Go to Patent Arcade to see what I'm talking about. Yikes! These guys aren't messing around. Everybody wants to be in the know and act like a big shot but sometimes it just isn't worth it. Keeping a secret is a quality that most people look for in others. I'm good at keeping every one's secrets but my own. How about you?
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Don't spit. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
STUFF!: I saw "The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus" last week. This was Heath Ledger's last film. Terry Gilliam used Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrel to finish it since Heath passed before it was completed. Let me tell you, the way it was shot was brilliant! They should have done it that way regardless. Between that and the supporting cast of Christopher Plummer, Verne Troyer, and the incomparable Tom Waits as the devil makes it a must-see.
Have a great week!
Monday, January 18, 2010
GKN Weekly Update 1/18/10
Good morning, my fellow do-gooders! I hope everybody had a great weekend. I went to my friend's annual poker tournament. I did pretty badly this year. Three split-pots and I won one hand. Eek!
Continuing this month's pet project, I'm still tracking my auditions/submissions/cold calls. I won't bore you with the details, but the good news is that I landed two gigs via Craig's List! Unfortunately, I can't give details of either of them. I don't have any about one of them and there's a Non-Disclosure Agreement for the other one. I will fill you in when I can!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Who would have thought you could get work on Craig's List? I check it out every day and you'd be surprised at the quality of some of the projects. Some of the other projects are, well, not surprising. Also, I use Crazed List to search multiple lists at the same time. I have it set up so I see posts from every major city in the US plus Northern, Central, and Southern New Jersey. It only takes about one minute a day. If you're an actor, VO talent, dancer, or model, add it to your daily regiment. Let me know if you land any gigs!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: You’re only as sick as your secrets. Carrie Fisher
STUFF!: I recommend seeing "Sherlock Holmes". It was great! The director is Guy Ritchie who also did "Snatch" and "Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels". Those are cult classics and I'm happy to see Guy have some mainstream success. Has anyone else seen it yet?
Have a great week!
Continuing this month's pet project, I'm still tracking my auditions/submissions/cold calls. I won't bore you with the details, but the good news is that I landed two gigs via Craig's List! Unfortunately, I can't give details of either of them. I don't have any about one of them and there's a Non-Disclosure Agreement for the other one. I will fill you in when I can!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Who would have thought you could get work on Craig's List? I check it out every day and you'd be surprised at the quality of some of the projects. Some of the other projects are, well, not surprising. Also, I use Crazed List to search multiple lists at the same time. I have it set up so I see posts from every major city in the US plus Northern, Central, and Southern New Jersey. It only takes about one minute a day. If you're an actor, VO talent, dancer, or model, add it to your daily regiment. Let me know if you land any gigs!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: You’re only as sick as your secrets. Carrie Fisher
STUFF!: I recommend seeing "Sherlock Holmes". It was great! The director is Guy Ritchie who also did "Snatch" and "Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels". Those are cult classics and I'm happy to see Guy have some mainstream success. Has anyone else seen it yet?
Have a great week!
Monday, January 11, 2010
GKN Weekly Update 1/11/10
Week One of 2010 is in the books! I hope everyone has gotten back into their routine. I'm not quite there yet. I had a bit of a cold last week so my diet, exercise, and work habits aren't quite back to normal but they're getting there. That doesn't mean I wasn't busy!
Just for fun I've decided to track my auditions every week for a month to see what's going on. Here is last week's breakdown:
Voice 123 Auditions: 7. That includes two private invitations. (BTW I know that many of you like P2P sites and many of you don't. In the 4+ years I've been on it, it has paid my annual fee back many, many times over so it works for me!).
Ingrid French Auditions: 3. That includes going to New York for in-person auditions. Two were for voiceovers (E-Money and Ludens) and one was on-camera (White Castle).
Voice Talent Productions: 2 (Thanks, Erik!)
Craig's List: 1. I got a virtual callback to be the voice of Fast Lane Daily, an auto industry magazine.
TOTAL: 13
This does not include the two dozen cold calls I made.
What does this mean? Well, I have agents submitting on my behalf and I submit myself for projects regularly. I get specific requests for my voice as well as callbacks. The big question is: Does it work? The answer is: it works often enough for me to keep doing it. I believe that all of these things are "part of a balanced breakfast" as a fellow VO talent once put it.
TIP OF THE WEEK: To ply your trade as an actor, dancer, model, VO talent, etc. you need to put yourself out there as often and as efficiently as you can. Be on multiple websites and networking profiles. Have a marketing plan in place and execute it. Be relentless!!!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: What is right and what is practicable are two different things. James Buchanan
STUFF!: I got a bunch of great CD's over the past few weeks. They are:
Bloc Party "Banquet"
Imogen Heap "Speak for Yourself"
Arma Secreta "A Century's Remains"
Gooding "The Return"
(compilation) "Dark was the Night"
I haven't listened to Bloc Party yet, but Imogen Heap is amazing! She's the girl from Frou Frou. You can download the Arma Secreta and Gooding albums from their website for free. The last CD has a bunch of incredible artists on it like Iron and Wine, The New Pornographers, and David Byrne.
What music have you been listening to lately?
Have a great week!
Just for fun I've decided to track my auditions every week for a month to see what's going on. Here is last week's breakdown:
Voice 123 Auditions: 7. That includes two private invitations. (BTW I know that many of you like P2P sites and many of you don't. In the 4+ years I've been on it, it has paid my annual fee back many, many times over so it works for me!).
Ingrid French Auditions: 3. That includes going to New York for in-person auditions. Two were for voiceovers (E-Money and Ludens) and one was on-camera (White Castle).
Voice Talent Productions: 2 (Thanks, Erik!)
Craig's List: 1. I got a virtual callback to be the voice of Fast Lane Daily, an auto industry magazine.
TOTAL: 13
This does not include the two dozen cold calls I made.
What does this mean? Well, I have agents submitting on my behalf and I submit myself for projects regularly. I get specific requests for my voice as well as callbacks. The big question is: Does it work? The answer is: it works often enough for me to keep doing it. I believe that all of these things are "part of a balanced breakfast" as a fellow VO talent once put it.
TIP OF THE WEEK: To ply your trade as an actor, dancer, model, VO talent, etc. you need to put yourself out there as often and as efficiently as you can. Be on multiple websites and networking profiles. Have a marketing plan in place and execute it. Be relentless!!!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: What is right and what is practicable are two different things. James Buchanan
STUFF!: I got a bunch of great CD's over the past few weeks. They are:
Bloc Party "Banquet"
Imogen Heap "Speak for Yourself"
Arma Secreta "A Century's Remains"
Gooding "The Return"
(compilation) "Dark was the Night"
I haven't listened to Bloc Party yet, but Imogen Heap is amazing! She's the girl from Frou Frou. You can download the Arma Secreta and Gooding albums from their website for free. The last CD has a bunch of incredible artists on it like Iron and Wine, The New Pornographers, and David Byrne.
What music have you been listening to lately?
Have a great week!
Monday, January 4, 2010
GKN Weekly Update 1/4/10
Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a safe and grand ole' time. I had a blast at my friend Jim's up in Butler. My Christmas was great, too. Thanks again to the Sylvester family for taking me in!
I consider today the first official day of 2010 and I hit the ground running. I made a big ole' honkin' checklist of things to do and I already did seventeen of them and it's only 1PM! Everything from finishing my 2009 expense sheet to changing the shower curtain liner. Man, I love feeling productive!
I've got a lot of exciting things lined up for 2010. What I'm the most pumped about is the audio books. My stint at Awareness Audiobooks starts this month and hopefully I'll hear from Infinivox about this year's batch of stories. I also auditioned to narrate Robinson Crusoe and I'd love to land that one. I'm also waiting with bated (baited?) breath to hear from TJC Productions about the audio books they're producing this year. And as always, I keep pestering Audible about bringing me on board. I narrated nine audio books in 2009 so this year my goal is ten. Fingers crossed!
TIP OF THE WEEK: New Year's Resolutions, yikes! They're so cliche and hard to keep. Lose weight, quit smoking, blah blah blah. Why doesn't it work most of the time? I think it's because it's hard to put together and implement a day-today-system of thought & execution and stick to it. If you made any Resolutions this year, remember this: keep your goals in sight every day and make them incremental. You're not gonna lose 20 pounds overnight and going cold turkey on a lifetime of eating habits never works. Start small...
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: As president, I believe that robotics can inspire young people to pursue science and engineering. And I also want to keep an eye on those robots in case they try anything. Barack Obama, speaking to Washington D.C. School kids as part of his science education initiative
STUFF!: Let's try something different this year. I'm just gonna go with whatever strikes me at this given moment. I have a feeling that most of the time it's gonna involve music or film. Here we go...
High Fidelity is one of those movies that I completely forget about unless somebody brings it up or I catch it on TV. Every time I see it I think "I LOVE this movie! Why do I always forget about it?" Do you have a movie like that?
Have a great week!
I consider today the first official day of 2010 and I hit the ground running. I made a big ole' honkin' checklist of things to do and I already did seventeen of them and it's only 1PM! Everything from finishing my 2009 expense sheet to changing the shower curtain liner. Man, I love feeling productive!
I've got a lot of exciting things lined up for 2010. What I'm the most pumped about is the audio books. My stint at Awareness Audiobooks starts this month and hopefully I'll hear from Infinivox about this year's batch of stories. I also auditioned to narrate Robinson Crusoe and I'd love to land that one. I'm also waiting with bated (baited?) breath to hear from TJC Productions about the audio books they're producing this year. And as always, I keep pestering Audible about bringing me on board. I narrated nine audio books in 2009 so this year my goal is ten. Fingers crossed!
TIP OF THE WEEK: New Year's Resolutions, yikes! They're so cliche and hard to keep. Lose weight, quit smoking, blah blah blah. Why doesn't it work most of the time? I think it's because it's hard to put together and implement a day-today-system of thought & execution and stick to it. If you made any Resolutions this year, remember this: keep your goals in sight every day and make them incremental. You're not gonna lose 20 pounds overnight and going cold turkey on a lifetime of eating habits never works. Start small...
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: As president, I believe that robotics can inspire young people to pursue science and engineering. And I also want to keep an eye on those robots in case they try anything. Barack Obama, speaking to Washington D.C. School kids as part of his science education initiative
STUFF!: Let's try something different this year. I'm just gonna go with whatever strikes me at this given moment. I have a feeling that most of the time it's gonna involve music or film. Here we go...
High Fidelity is one of those movies that I completely forget about unless somebody brings it up or I catch it on TV. Every time I see it I think "I LOVE this movie! Why do I always forget about it?" Do you have a movie like that?
Have a great week!
Monday, December 21, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 12/21/09
Welcome to the final Good Karma Network Update for 2009! I hope everyone has dug out of the snow and is ready for the holidays.
So, this is the part when I take a moment to reflect on the year, both professionally and personally. Here's the breakdown...
In 2009 I did 97 voiceovers and landed 27 new clients. My revenue increased by 5% (considering the economy this year, I'll take it!). I was also under budget for the year.
Big gigs for 2009 include Nestle, Swiss Air, American Express/Delta, and nine audio books.
We made some strides with Project TERRA and should have our 4 1/2 minutes of video ready sometime in 2010. I'm also banging away at the screenplay and should have it completed soon. Go to www.3ative.com to see some new pics!
On the health front I had no kidney stones this year, I lost weight, and my cholesterol is under control.
I am still what I like to call "clinically single" but who knows what 2010 may bring...?
Overall, 2009 was an incredible year! I would like to thank all of you for supporting the Good Karma Network this year and for your wonderful contributions.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Take some time to reflect on the year and examine your accomplishments. Make a list of goals for 2010, both professional and personal. If you need a hand, let me know. I love making lists!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Don't gloat. A good friend will do it for you. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
DISCUSS!: How was 2009 for you? What can you do to make 2010 even better?
Have a great week and Happy Holidays!!!
So, this is the part when I take a moment to reflect on the year, both professionally and personally. Here's the breakdown...
In 2009 I did 97 voiceovers and landed 27 new clients. My revenue increased by 5% (considering the economy this year, I'll take it!). I was also under budget for the year.
Big gigs for 2009 include Nestle, Swiss Air, American Express/Delta, and nine audio books.
We made some strides with Project TERRA and should have our 4 1/2 minutes of video ready sometime in 2010. I'm also banging away at the screenplay and should have it completed soon. Go to www.3ative.com to see some new pics!
On the health front I had no kidney stones this year, I lost weight, and my cholesterol is under control.
I am still what I like to call "clinically single" but who knows what 2010 may bring...?
Overall, 2009 was an incredible year! I would like to thank all of you for supporting the Good Karma Network this year and for your wonderful contributions.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Take some time to reflect on the year and examine your accomplishments. Make a list of goals for 2010, both professional and personal. If you need a hand, let me know. I love making lists!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Don't gloat. A good friend will do it for you. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
DISCUSS!: How was 2009 for you? What can you do to make 2010 even better?
Have a great week and Happy Holidays!!!
Monday, December 14, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 12/14/09
Top o' the morning to you, my little do-gooders! Getting your holiday shopping done?
Last week I did something I don't get to do very often: a home recording session with a phone patch. For those of you who don't know what a phone patch is, it means you're communicating with someone while you're recording. It can be as simple as holding up a cell phone to the speaker to using a high-end system like Source Connect or ISDN. I use Skype and it's great! Anyway, the client was wonderful and I banged out a two page script in two takes.
It did make me re-examine my setup, though. I think I need a new set of headphones. The quality isn't great and the cord is too short so I had to put the speakers in the booth with me, which was a little awkward cable-wise. I'm going to buy a new set this week and I would appreciate any suggestions for a good pair of headphones with a 10 foot cord and an 1/8" jack (or 1/4" inch, I have an adapter) for under $100. Thanks!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Gear is pretty darn important in the voiceover business. I'm not as tech-savvy as I'd like to be, but I'm learning. If you are wary of technology and don't like using computers or the Internet, the VO life may not be for you. I love learning new things and I'm always up for a challenge!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Thank the bus driver. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
DISCUSS!: How comfortable are you with technology? More importantly, do you like learning new skill sets? Do you have any recent experiences to share?
Have a great week!
Last week I did something I don't get to do very often: a home recording session with a phone patch. For those of you who don't know what a phone patch is, it means you're communicating with someone while you're recording. It can be as simple as holding up a cell phone to the speaker to using a high-end system like Source Connect or ISDN. I use Skype and it's great! Anyway, the client was wonderful and I banged out a two page script in two takes.
It did make me re-examine my setup, though. I think I need a new set of headphones. The quality isn't great and the cord is too short so I had to put the speakers in the booth with me, which was a little awkward cable-wise. I'm going to buy a new set this week and I would appreciate any suggestions for a good pair of headphones with a 10 foot cord and an 1/8" jack (or 1/4" inch, I have an adapter) for under $100. Thanks!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Gear is pretty darn important in the voiceover business. I'm not as tech-savvy as I'd like to be, but I'm learning. If you are wary of technology and don't like using computers or the Internet, the VO life may not be for you. I love learning new things and I'm always up for a challenge!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Thank the bus driver. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
DISCUSS!: How comfortable are you with technology? More importantly, do you like learning new skill sets? Do you have any recent experiences to share?
Have a great week!
Monday, December 7, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 12/7/09
Hello on this chilly Monday morning! Gotta keep this one short, I have a very busy day today...
I had an amazing time at the 2nd Annual Voicover Mixer in New York City over the weekend! Over 200 voiceover talents converged on White Rabbit in the East Village for an evening of networking and fun. I got to catch up with many friends and make some new ones. Thanks to the folks at Voice Talent Productions for putting it all together!
TIP OF THE WEEK: It's very important to be an active part of your community, whether it's at work, home, your place of worship, or school. I felt completely isolated until I dived into the Internet, looking for others like myself. It's great to have peers that you can relate to on a daily basis!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Your best chance of being a rock star is learning the bass. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
DISCUSS!: How active are you in your community?
Have a great week!
I had an amazing time at the 2nd Annual Voicover Mixer in New York City over the weekend! Over 200 voiceover talents converged on White Rabbit in the East Village for an evening of networking and fun. I got to catch up with many friends and make some new ones. Thanks to the folks at Voice Talent Productions for putting it all together!
TIP OF THE WEEK: It's very important to be an active part of your community, whether it's at work, home, your place of worship, or school. I felt completely isolated until I dived into the Internet, looking for others like myself. It's great to have peers that you can relate to on a daily basis!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Your best chance of being a rock star is learning the bass. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
DISCUSS!: How active are you in your community?
Have a great week!
Monday, November 30, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 11/30/09
Happy Post-Thanksgiving! I hope everybody enjoyed their holiday weekend, did some shopping, and housed some leftovers. I had a blast at dinner with family and friends.
This holiday weekend was also eventful because I went to my 20th high school reunion!
That's me with my friend Yvonne. Dig the mini-mullet on my name tag!
I can't even begin to tell you what a fantastic time I had seeing old friends and catching up. Everyone was interested in my voiceover career and a few of them said they may have work for me! That was very nice, but I'm not about to tell you to use your high school reunion as a networking tool. A bit tacky, if you ask me.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Those of us who are self-employed train ourselves to look for networking opportunities in any situation. Sigmund Freud once said "Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar." The reunion was just a reunion, a purely social situation. I'm not saying I had to resist the temptation to pass around business cards. It didn't even occur to me until someone broached the subject. I'm just saying there is a time and place for everything.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: If you trip in public, don't blame the sidewalk. Pick yourself up and pretend nothing happened. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
DISCUSS!: Has anyone ever solicited you at an inappropriate time? How did you handle it?
Have a great week!
This holiday weekend was also eventful because I went to my 20th high school reunion!
That's me with my friend Yvonne. Dig the mini-mullet on my name tag!
I can't even begin to tell you what a fantastic time I had seeing old friends and catching up. Everyone was interested in my voiceover career and a few of them said they may have work for me! That was very nice, but I'm not about to tell you to use your high school reunion as a networking tool. A bit tacky, if you ask me.
TIP OF THE WEEK: Those of us who are self-employed train ourselves to look for networking opportunities in any situation. Sigmund Freud once said "Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar." The reunion was just a reunion, a purely social situation. I'm not saying I had to resist the temptation to pass around business cards. It didn't even occur to me until someone broached the subject. I'm just saying there is a time and place for everything.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: If you trip in public, don't blame the sidewalk. Pick yourself up and pretend nothing happened. (from the book “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond)
DISCUSS!: Has anyone ever solicited you at an inappropriate time? How did you handle it?
Have a great week!
Monday, November 23, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 11/23/09
And hello on this Pre-Thanksgiving, Holy Crap Did I Buy Enough Cranberry Sauce Monday! I hope everyone is looking forward to a short work week, lots of great food & family, and of course FOOTBALL! BTW whose idea was it to put my Giants on the NFL Network this Thursday? Shenanigans, I say!
So I had a great audition last Thursday to narrate some audio books. I read excerpts from three stores and I think I did very well. The auditioners were really cool and they were a pleasure to read for.
I did make one gaff, though. The guy who auditioned just before me was a middle-aged, very talented man with a deep, resonant voice. As I was settling into the booth, I said to the auditioners, "I bet it'll be a bit of a shock going from him to me." I was referring to them going from listening to a guy who sounds like James Earl Jones to a guy who sounds like Matthew Broderick. You know, very different voices with a different approach to reading copy. They said he's a great talent and so am I so what's the problem? It came off like I said the last guy is great and I suck, a lame attempt at self-deprecating humor. I explained my "joke" and everything was fine. After the audition they said I'm a great actor and they were very pleased. WHEW!!!
TIP OF THE WEEK: When you make a joke at an interview or audition make sure:
A) It's appropriate, and
B) It doesn't make you or them look like an ass.
Obviously you should avoid jokes involving profanity, politics, sex, race, and religion. Also, you don't want the joke to raise or lower your status/position in relation to your audience. I will always you encourage to break the ice and make things fun. Just be careful where you try to find the funny!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Stand up to bullies. You'll only have to do it once. from “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond
DISCUSS!: Have you ever told a joke at an audition or interview that fell flat? How did you recover?
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!
So I had a great audition last Thursday to narrate some audio books. I read excerpts from three stores and I think I did very well. The auditioners were really cool and they were a pleasure to read for.
I did make one gaff, though. The guy who auditioned just before me was a middle-aged, very talented man with a deep, resonant voice. As I was settling into the booth, I said to the auditioners, "I bet it'll be a bit of a shock going from him to me." I was referring to them going from listening to a guy who sounds like James Earl Jones to a guy who sounds like Matthew Broderick. You know, very different voices with a different approach to reading copy. They said he's a great talent and so am I so what's the problem? It came off like I said the last guy is great and I suck, a lame attempt at self-deprecating humor. I explained my "joke" and everything was fine. After the audition they said I'm a great actor and they were very pleased. WHEW!!!
TIP OF THE WEEK: When you make a joke at an interview or audition make sure:
A) It's appropriate, and
B) It doesn't make you or them look like an ass.
Obviously you should avoid jokes involving profanity, politics, sex, race, and religion. Also, you don't want the joke to raise or lower your status/position in relation to your audience. I will always you encourage to break the ice and make things fun. Just be careful where you try to find the funny!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Stand up to bullies. You'll only have to do it once. from “Rules for my Unborn Son” by Walker Lamond
DISCUSS!: Have you ever told a joke at an audition or interview that fell flat? How did you recover?
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!
Monday, November 16, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 11/16/09
Good morning on this crisp Autumn day!
Okay kids, no voiceover anecdotes today. I want to share a goofy little hobby of mine. As you know, I collect quotes and post them on this here Good Karma Network thang. What you don't know is that I also collect bad movie lines!
I collect lines or actions that, any time you hear or see them in a film, you know the movie is BAD. I'm talking about some seriously uninspired cliches. My only rule is that I don't collect lines that were made famous by one particular actor/character such as "I'll be back" or "Go ahead, make my day". I just started so the list is pretty small. I encourage you to add to the list. The lamer, the better!!!
BAD MOVIE LINES
Let’s get out of here!
Go on! Get out of here!
Go ahead without me!
What’s going on here?
Whoa...whoa…whoa! (When any child is sliding down something)
According to my calculations…
(Man) Stay here. (Woman or Child) I’m going with you!
I’m too old for this!
Bingo!
Jackpot!
I’d like to propose a toast.
Get your hands off me, creep!
We’ve got company…
Something’s fishy…
What are we gonna do?
I’ll see you in hell!
I’m scared.
(Insert name) is my name and (insert profession or activity) is my game!
VILLAIN LINES
Well, well, well, what have we here?
Look what the cat dragged in!
What is the meaning of this?
Or what? (Usually proclaimed by school bullies or thugs before they get whomped)
Get them!
Stop them!
Take them away!
Excellent!
Fools!
Intruders!
Interlopers!
THE DREADED INDICATORS
(Staring longingly at a photo that has just been picked up)
(Blood splattering on an object to indicate an act of violence)
(Closing a dead person’s eyes)
(A series of quick cuts showing the action hero suiting up for battle)
(Putting a coat on a woman’s shoulders)
TIP OF THE WEEK: I love doing stuff like this! It's easy, it's fun, and it doesn't take up much time. Benjamin Hoff wrote, "If we add up all the rewards in our lives, we wouldn't have very much. But if we add up the spaces between the rewards, we'll come up with quite a bit". Doing things like collecting bad movie lines is one of the things I use to fill up the spaces and strangely enough, it turns out to be a reward in itself. Life isn't birthdays and bar mitzvahs. It's about all the space in between. Use it well.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: After writing an angry email, read it carefully. Then delete it. Walker Lamond, "Rules for my Unborn Son"
DISCUSS!: What small, fun things can do you do to fill the spaces?
Have a great week!
Okay kids, no voiceover anecdotes today. I want to share a goofy little hobby of mine. As you know, I collect quotes and post them on this here Good Karma Network thang. What you don't know is that I also collect bad movie lines!
I collect lines or actions that, any time you hear or see them in a film, you know the movie is BAD. I'm talking about some seriously uninspired cliches. My only rule is that I don't collect lines that were made famous by one particular actor/character such as "I'll be back" or "Go ahead, make my day". I just started so the list is pretty small. I encourage you to add to the list. The lamer, the better!!!
BAD MOVIE LINES
Let’s get out of here!
Go on! Get out of here!
Go ahead without me!
What’s going on here?
Whoa...whoa…whoa! (When any child is sliding down something)
According to my calculations…
(Man) Stay here. (Woman or Child) I’m going with you!
I’m too old for this!
Bingo!
Jackpot!
I’d like to propose a toast.
Get your hands off me, creep!
We’ve got company…
Something’s fishy…
What are we gonna do?
I’ll see you in hell!
I’m scared.
(Insert name) is my name and (insert profession or activity) is my game!
VILLAIN LINES
Well, well, well, what have we here?
Look what the cat dragged in!
What is the meaning of this?
Or what? (Usually proclaimed by school bullies or thugs before they get whomped)
Get them!
Stop them!
Take them away!
Excellent!
Fools!
Intruders!
Interlopers!
THE DREADED INDICATORS
(Staring longingly at a photo that has just been picked up)
(Blood splattering on an object to indicate an act of violence)
(Closing a dead person’s eyes)
(A series of quick cuts showing the action hero suiting up for battle)
(Putting a coat on a woman’s shoulders)
TIP OF THE WEEK: I love doing stuff like this! It's easy, it's fun, and it doesn't take up much time. Benjamin Hoff wrote, "If we add up all the rewards in our lives, we wouldn't have very much. But if we add up the spaces between the rewards, we'll come up with quite a bit". Doing things like collecting bad movie lines is one of the things I use to fill up the spaces and strangely enough, it turns out to be a reward in itself. Life isn't birthdays and bar mitzvahs. It's about all the space in between. Use it well.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: After writing an angry email, read it carefully. Then delete it. Walker Lamond, "Rules for my Unborn Son"
DISCUSS!: What small, fun things can do you do to fill the spaces?
Have a great week!
Monday, November 9, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 11/9/09
Good morning to you on this surprisingly warm Monday! It will probably be the last one for a while so enjoy it...
As many of you know, I HATE cold calls! So I came up with a way to make it more fun. This is the game I've been playing: my goal is to have a Golden Client in every state. When I say "Golden Client" I mean a company who likes my voiceover demo and will keep it on file to be considered for future projects (thanks to Dan Duckworth of Voiceovers Unlimited calls for coining that phrase!). So far I'm up to 44! Here are the remaining six states:
Maine
Nebraska
South Carolina
Tennessee
West Virginia
Wisconsin
I'll let you know when I hit 50!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Many things we do in our jobs/careers are categorized as "necessary evils". Some of them are small & annoying, others can turn into phobias or even make you quit your job. Remember: you can't control the world, you can only control your reaction to the world. With that in mind, try to come up with ways to make those "necessary evils" feel a bit less evil. Make a game out of it or turn it into a competition with yourself or a co-worker.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: When things go wrong, don’t go with them. Elvis Presley
DISCUSS!: What can you do to make your job more enjoyable? How can you make it fun for yourself?
Have a great week!
As many of you know, I HATE cold calls! So I came up with a way to make it more fun. This is the game I've been playing: my goal is to have a Golden Client in every state. When I say "Golden Client" I mean a company who likes my voiceover demo and will keep it on file to be considered for future projects (thanks to Dan Duckworth of Voiceovers Unlimited calls for coining that phrase!). So far I'm up to 44! Here are the remaining six states:
Maine
Nebraska
South Carolina
Tennessee
West Virginia
Wisconsin
I'll let you know when I hit 50!
TIP OF THE WEEK: Many things we do in our jobs/careers are categorized as "necessary evils". Some of them are small & annoying, others can turn into phobias or even make you quit your job. Remember: you can't control the world, you can only control your reaction to the world. With that in mind, try to come up with ways to make those "necessary evils" feel a bit less evil. Make a game out of it or turn it into a competition with yourself or a co-worker.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: When things go wrong, don’t go with them. Elvis Presley
DISCUSS!: What can you do to make your job more enjoyable? How can you make it fun for yourself?
Have a great week!
Monday, November 2, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 11/2/09
Happy Halloween!!!
I hope everyone had a fun, safe, and loot-ridden weekend. I went to my friend Jim's house Saturday night for a party. I dressed up as Earl Hickey from "My Name is Earl". I wrote the list, grew a mustache (that took a month!), and made sure my eyes were closed every time my picture was taken. Go to my Facebook profile to see what I looked like (and yes Jerry, my eyes are open there, I was trying to pose like he does at the beginning of the show!)
So, I start working at Awareness Audio Books next week. I'm pretty excited! They're going to schedule a rehearsal to help determine which parts the cast will play and then record later in the week. I've never been to a voiceover rehearsal before. These audio books are more like audio dramas or radio plays so it makes sense. Also, my guess is that since this is their first time working with the cast they want to get to know us and get a feel for what we can do. I'm looking forward to the process!
TIP OF THE WEEK: I've been doing voiceovers for over thirteen years now and I love it when I have a new experience in the industry, like I will next week for Awareness. I've learned over the years to enjoy working out of my comfort zone. It kick-starts your brain and makes you re-examine your behavior. It's very healthy and I strongly suggest you do the same from time to time!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: ...if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best. Marilyn Monroe
DISCUSS!: When was the last time you worked out of your comfort zone? Did you learn anything?
Have a great week!
I hope everyone had a fun, safe, and loot-ridden weekend. I went to my friend Jim's house Saturday night for a party. I dressed up as Earl Hickey from "My Name is Earl". I wrote the list, grew a mustache (that took a month!), and made sure my eyes were closed every time my picture was taken. Go to my Facebook profile to see what I looked like (and yes Jerry, my eyes are open there, I was trying to pose like he does at the beginning of the show!)
So, I start working at Awareness Audio Books next week. I'm pretty excited! They're going to schedule a rehearsal to help determine which parts the cast will play and then record later in the week. I've never been to a voiceover rehearsal before. These audio books are more like audio dramas or radio plays so it makes sense. Also, my guess is that since this is their first time working with the cast they want to get to know us and get a feel for what we can do. I'm looking forward to the process!
TIP OF THE WEEK: I've been doing voiceovers for over thirteen years now and I love it when I have a new experience in the industry, like I will next week for Awareness. I've learned over the years to enjoy working out of my comfort zone. It kick-starts your brain and makes you re-examine your behavior. It's very healthy and I strongly suggest you do the same from time to time!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: ...if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best. Marilyn Monroe
DISCUSS!: When was the last time you worked out of your comfort zone? Did you learn anything?
Have a great week!
Monday, October 26, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 10/26/09
Happy Old Daylight Savings Time Day! How do I know this? The clock on my VCR went back an hour and for the life of me I can't fix it! When is the new one?
Anyway, I've noticed that I've been recording from home a lot more than I used to, at least in the past two months. I audition online, I record the files in my home studio aka my padded-down front closet, edit it, save it, and email it to the client. More often than not I get paid via PayPal, which means no trip to the bank. So I look for work, get work, and get paid for work without having the leave the house! Pretty nice, huh?
However, I make it a point to exercise, shower, eat, get dressed, and make sure I'm at my desk & ready to go by 9AM. Why? This is a job, just like any other. Also, I feel more energized & productive if I'm...presentable. I think that's the right word. Maybe professional? Something like that. Anyway, the days I don't do that I get less work done. Weird, huh?
TIP OF THE WEEK: Do whatever you need to do to be as prepared and motivated as possible for your day. If you feel like you aren't, change your routine, maybe even your diet. Find the right formula to put you at your best!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: We are not here to curse the darkness, we are here to light a candle. John F. Kennedy
(BTW I had to go back to the top of my quote list because I ran out. I have 195!)
DISCUSS!: Do you work from home? What do you do to get yourself ready for the day?
Have a great week!
Anyway, I've noticed that I've been recording from home a lot more than I used to, at least in the past two months. I audition online, I record the files in my home studio aka my padded-down front closet, edit it, save it, and email it to the client. More often than not I get paid via PayPal, which means no trip to the bank. So I look for work, get work, and get paid for work without having the leave the house! Pretty nice, huh?
However, I make it a point to exercise, shower, eat, get dressed, and make sure I'm at my desk & ready to go by 9AM. Why? This is a job, just like any other. Also, I feel more energized & productive if I'm...presentable. I think that's the right word. Maybe professional? Something like that. Anyway, the days I don't do that I get less work done. Weird, huh?
TIP OF THE WEEK: Do whatever you need to do to be as prepared and motivated as possible for your day. If you feel like you aren't, change your routine, maybe even your diet. Find the right formula to put you at your best!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: We are not here to curse the darkness, we are here to light a candle. John F. Kennedy
(BTW I had to go back to the top of my quote list because I ran out. I have 195!)
DISCUSS!: Do you work from home? What do you do to get yourself ready for the day?
Have a great week!
Monday, October 19, 2009
GKN Weekly Update 10/19/09
Good morning!
I hope everyone got through the weekend warm & dry.
So, I have a new voiceover client. It's a local production company who makes some high-quality commercials for local cable stations. My contact there is Russian (my favorite accent of all time!) and so are all of the companies I have lent my voice to through him. He's a great guy and pays very quickly (yay PayPal!). The scripts have been translated from Russian as well. Some of the sentences have been a bit clunky and other have been nigh unreadable for an English speaking audience.
I have offered to clean up the scripts a bit. My contact has always been happy to take my revisions to the company in question to see what they think. Sometimes they said yes, sometimes no. So, the challenge has been to narrate scripts that aren't grammatically correct. I discovered that if you phrase the sentences in certain ways you can navigate most of the grammar oversights.
TIP OF THE WEEK: In the story I just shared, collaboration works for some of the companies and not for others. Everything has been fine with this particular client, but not all clients are like this. Be careful not to step on any body's toes. In other words, writing the script is not your job. Your job is to make script sound great, period.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody. Bill Cosby
DISCUSS!: Have you ever had a well-intended script suggestion go horribly wrong?
Have a great week!
I hope everyone got through the weekend warm & dry.
So, I have a new voiceover client. It's a local production company who makes some high-quality commercials for local cable stations. My contact there is Russian (my favorite accent of all time!) and so are all of the companies I have lent my voice to through him. He's a great guy and pays very quickly (yay PayPal!). The scripts have been translated from Russian as well. Some of the sentences have been a bit clunky and other have been nigh unreadable for an English speaking audience.
I have offered to clean up the scripts a bit. My contact has always been happy to take my revisions to the company in question to see what they think. Sometimes they said yes, sometimes no. So, the challenge has been to narrate scripts that aren't grammatically correct. I discovered that if you phrase the sentences in certain ways you can navigate most of the grammar oversights.
TIP OF THE WEEK: In the story I just shared, collaboration works for some of the companies and not for others. Everything has been fine with this particular client, but not all clients are like this. Be careful not to step on any body's toes. In other words, writing the script is not your job. Your job is to make script sound great, period.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK: I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody. Bill Cosby
DISCUSS!: Have you ever had a well-intended script suggestion go horribly wrong?
Have a great week!
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