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Meet Casting Director, Terry Berland!

Mastering the Art of Voiceover: Insights from Terry Berland 

Voiceover work is an art that demands a unique blend of emotional intelligence, vocal skill, and technical knowledge. In a recent discussion, industry expert Terry Berland shared invaluable insights for both aspiring and seasoned voiceover artists. Here’s a comprehensive look at her advice and tips for mastering the craft.

The Importance of Authenticity and Self-Expression

Voiceover work is deeply rooted in authenticity and the ability to convey genuine emotion. Terry emphasized that the key to a successful read is not just about technical precision but about being true to the character and the message.

Connecting with the Script

According to Terry, connecting emotionally with the script is crucial. “When you’re first learning, you have to understand the emotional feel of the spot,” she says. This involves breaking down the copy and understanding the nuances of what you can and cannot do with your voice. A coach can be instrumental in this process, offering feedback and helping you discover whether your delivery truly matches the intended emotion.

The Power of a Smile

One of the often-overlooked techniques in voiceover work is the power of a smile. Terry points out that a smile can add warmth and versatility to your read. It can convey friendliness, sarcasm, or compassion, depending on the context.

Appropriate Smiles for Different Contexts

For instance, in hospital or medication commercials, the smile needs to be compassionate yet positive, as you are representing the solution to a problem. This requires a delicate balance that only comes with practice and understanding the brand's voice.

The Complexity of Reads

Voiceover reads are not one-dimensional. Terry explains that every read has multiple layers of emotion. For example, a positive read might be underpinned by warmth or compassion. Understanding and effectively conveying these subtleties can set a voiceover artist apart.

Working the Microphone

Advanced voiceover artists learn to work the microphone in nuanced ways. By understanding the underlying emotional layers of a read, they can deliver more dynamic and engaging performances.

Pet Peeves and Must-Haves for Submissions

When it comes to submissions, Terry has a few pet peeves and essential tips:

Follow Directions

One of the most common mistakes is not following directions. This can disrupt the organization and workflow, ultimately affecting the quality of submissions.

Avoid Lead-Ins

Terry advises against using lead-ins, as they can be confusing and irrelevant to the client’s vision. The focus should be on the read itself, not on emotional setups for the artist.

Clever Vocalizations

While vocalizations can be effective if used cleverly and appropriately, they should not serve as mere emotional setups for the artist. They need to enhance the read and fit within the context of the script.

Understanding and Developing Your Branding

Developing a personal brand is essential for voiceover artists. Terry’s approach to teaching branding involves identifying the adjectives that best describe a voiceover artist’s strength and then associating those qualities with visual elements. This helps artists visualize their brand and understand how their voice fits into different contexts

Workshops and Continuous Learning

For those looking to refine their skills further, Terry offers various workshops, including branding and core kickstart sessions. These workshops are designed to help voiceover artists at all levels to develop their skills and understand the intricacies of the profession.

Voiceover artistry is a complex field that combines technical skills with emotional depth. By understanding your voice, connecting with the script, and continuously refining your skills through workshops and feedback, you can excel in this industry. Terry Berland’s insights and advice offer a valuable roadmap for anyone looking to master the art of voiceover.