Hey there, everyone! Welcome to part two of our chat with the amazing Thom Pinto. Today, we’re diving deeper into the world of TV narration, especially focusing on the different genres and how to land work in this exciting field. Tom’s got a wealth of knowledge to share, so let’s get right into it!
The Many Genres of TV Narration
One of the first things you need to know about TV narration is the sheer variety of genres out there. Thom breaks it down into two main categories: documentaries/docu-series and reality series. Let’s explore each.
Documentaries and Docu-Series
Documentaries are usually standalone programs, like a one-hour or two-hour special. They cover a wide range of topics such as nature, history, biographies, or intriguing subjects like black holes or the Roswell UFO incident.
Docu-series, on the other hand, are episodic, often spanning 10 to 13 episodes per season. These can cover everything from crime and paranormal activities to lighter topics like food history. For instance, there’s a series called "The Food That Built America" which delves into the stories behind popular food brands.
Reality Series
Now, let’s talk about reality series. This is where most of the opportunities lie because these shows are produced in abundance, often in half-hour formats. Here are some sub-genres Thom highlighted:
Non-Contrived Reality: These shows follow real people in real situations without much scripting, like a family living above the Arctic Circle.
Structured Drama: This includes shows like "Sister Wives" and "Pawn Stars," where family dynamics are central but there’s an element of production guiding the drama.
Competitive Reality: Think "Top Gear" or food competitions. These shows often need narrators to add excitement and context to the competition.
Quirky Reality: Shows like "Outrageous 911" and "Sex Sent Me to the ER" fall into this category, focusing on bizarre and often humorous real-life situations.
DIY/Upbeat Reality: Shows like "Flip This House" and "House Hunters International" are about home improvements and real estate adventures. They may not have heavy narration, but they’re steady gigs with multiple seasons.
Travel and Entertainment Reality: Programs showcasing top travel destinations or following red carpet events. These often need engaging narration to capture the glamour and excitement.
Game Shows: Surprisingly, many game shows require narrators to thread the storyline, like in "The Wall."
Preparing for an Audition
When you get an audition for a TV narration gig, there are a few key steps to prepare effectively.
Understand the Purpose
First, always ask yourself: What is the purpose of this documentary or show? Why would anyone want to watch it? This helps you understand the angle and tone needed for your narration. Often, the inherent purpose of the show is revealed in the last few seconds of the cold open or intro.
Visualize the Script
Scripts are usually typed in all caps, which can make them seem shouty and devoid of nuance. Try to mentally convert them to a mix of uppercase and lowercase to better understand the flow and emphasis needed.
Look for names, places, dates, and times that need emphasis. Visual shifts in the script should signal vocal shifts in your narration. If the script moves from discussing a bear to a snake, your voice should reflect that transition.
Find the Key Line
Identify a line in the script that stands out to you—something poignant, dramatic, or particularly juicy. This is often a pivotal moment in the narrative, and landing this line effectively can make a big impact.
Embracing your natural voice is crucial in TV narration. While it’s important not to be over the top, it’s equally important to avoid being too reserved. Your true engagement and authenticity will resonate with the audience.
Remember, TV narration is about connecting with the viewer and bringing the script to life. With these tips from Thom, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of TV narration.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start practicing! Until next time, happy narrating!
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