How to become a voice actor for anime: A How-To Guide
In the exciting world of anime, have you ever wondered what it takes to be the voice behind your favorite characters? With over 10,000 new Anime series produced each year, there’s a growing demand for skilled voice actors.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to become an anime voice actor – from honing your vocal skills and auditioning effectively to networking with industry professionals.
Key Takeaways
- Practice vocal skills, including cold reads, timing, and different voices and styles.
- Study voice recordings to learn accents, diction, speech speed, and improve reading out loud.
- Attend voiceover workshops and training programs to learn techniques and meet industry professionals.
- Equip yourself with essential tools like a studio condenser microphone, pop filter, recording software, computer, headphones, audio interface, and soundproofing materials for high-quality recordings.
- Create an impressive voiceover demo that showcases your ability to adjust timing and problem-solving qualities. Experiment with line delivery and practice reading out loud regularly.
- Network at anime conventions/events, join online communities/forums dedicated to voice acting in anime. Build an online presence through social media platforms.
- Find auditions by researching production companies/agencies specializing in anime. Stay informed about casting calls through industry websites/forums/social media pages. Prepare for auditions by studying the script and delivering lines with emotion/clarity/consistency.
- Secure an agent by setting up a personal recording studio with basic equipment. Create a demo reel showcasing your range/skills. Research/contact reputable agencies specializing in anime or with industry connections. Be patient/persistent when contacting agents.
- Anime voice actors can earn a substantial income depending on experience/popularity/role size. Average annual earnings are around $76k.
The Appeal of Anime Voice Acting
Anime voice acting pulls a lot of people in. The fun part? Getting to be the voices of cool anime characters! This job also lets you bring stories to life. Many like how it tests their skills too.
It’s not just reading lines, but doing “cold reads”. That means saying the lines for the first time at a recording session. Anime voice actors have to change how they read based on timing, which is a hard skill.
Another challenge is making pauses make sense for their character – this needs careful puzzle-solving thought. We call this left-brain acting because of that. For many, these unique tasks are what makes anime voice over opportunities so exciting and fun!
The Journey to Becoming an Anime Voice Actor
To become an anime voice actor, aspiring individuals must practice vocal skills, study voice recordings, and attend voiceover workshops and training programs.
Practicing vocal skills
Becoming an anime voice actor needs a lot of skill. Here is how to do it:
- Start with cold reads. This means reading a script you have not seen before. It helps to make your voice sound fresh and real.
- Work on timing your reads. This makes sure that the words fit with the anime’s actions.
- Try out different voices and styles. This can help find new roles and parts in anime shows.
- Practice pausing when you should in the lines. It helps bring out what the character is feeling.
- Spend time reading out loud from different types of scripts, like comedy or drama.
- Experiment with how you say each line in many ways until it sounds right for the character.
- Also, listen back to recordings of your own voice as this can show things that need to be better.
- Attend acting schools or take part in voiceover workshops which are great ways to learn more about anime voice acting.
- Always work on your diction, speech speed, and accents by studying those recordings again and again.
- And lastly, never stop getting better at what you do! Keep practising all these points every day until they become second nature for you as an anime voice actor!
Study and analyze voice recordings
Learning how to be an anime voice actor means studying and analyzing voice recordings. This is a key part of your journey. Here are some steps to help you:
- Start with looking for anime videos online.
- Listen to the voices used in these videos.
- Focus on how each actor uses their vocal range.
- Check out the speed of speech they use in different scenes.
- Pay attention to their accents if they use one.
- Note how they give life to the anime characters through their voice.
- Do this often so that you can improve your acting abilities.
Attend voiceover workshops and training programs
Taking part in voiceover workshops and training programs is a key step to becoming an anime voice actor. These classes help you learn how to use your voice as a tool. They teach different techniques for changing your tone, pitch, and volume. This makes it easier to bring animated characters to life.
- Look for local acting workshops. You can find them at community centers or theaters.
- Sign up for online training programs. They give lessons on how to do voiceovers for anime.
- Practice what you learn in these classes every day.
- Record yourself during practice sessions.
- Listen to your own recordings and try to improve each time.
- Go back to classes after practice and ask teachers about any issues you found during your home practices.
Required Equipment for Anime Voice Acting
Anime voice acting requires specific equipment to ensure high-quality recordings. Here is a list of the essential tools needed for anime voice acting:
- Microphone: A studio condenser microphone, preferably with a USB connection, captures clear and professional sound.
- Pop filter: This device reduces plosive sounds when pronouncing words with strong consonants like “p” and “b.”
- Recording software: Programs like Adobe Audition, Audacity, Pro Tools, or Sound Forge help edit and enhance voice recordings.
- Computer: A reliable computer is necessary to run the recording software smoothly.
- Headphones: Closed-back headphones are ideal for blocking out external noise and monitoring audio quality during recording.
- Audio interface: This device connects your microphone to the computer and enhances the sound quality of your recordings.
- Soundproofing materials: Using foam panels or blankets in your recording space helps reduce unwanted background noise.
The Audition Process for Anime Voice Acting
Creating an impressive voiceover demo, finding voice acting gigs and auditioning, and securing an agent are essential steps in the audition process for anime voice acting.
Creating an impressive voiceover demo
To become an anime voice actor, it’s important to have an impressive voiceover demo. Here are some tips to create a great demo:
- Showcase your ability to do cold reads and adjust timing: Anime dubbing requires syncing your voice with the movement of the character’s mouth. Your demo should demonstrate your skill in adjusting your timing to match the animation.
- Highlight problem-solving qualities: Anime voice acting often involves finding ways to emotionally justify pauses or line deliveries. Your demo should showcase your ability to solve problems creatively and effectively.
- Experiment with line delivery: Play around with different ways of delivering lines in your demo. Show versatility by trying different emotions, accents, and speech speeds.
- Practice reading out loud: Regularly reading out loud can improve diction, clarity, and overall vocal performance. Include samples of different texts in your demo to showcase this skill.
- Study recordings of your own voice: Listening to and analyzing recordings of your own voice can help you identify areas for improvement. Use this self-reflection to enhance your accent accuracy and speech speed.
Finding voice acting gigs and auditioning
To find voice acting gigs and audition for anime roles, follow these steps:
- Network with industry professionals and fellow voice actors at anime conventions and events.
- Join online communities and forums dedicated to voice acting in anime to stay updated on opportunities.
- Build a strong online presence through social media platforms, showcasing your talent and sharing your work.
- Create a professional demo reel that highlights your range and abilities as an anime voice actor.
- Research and reach out to anime production companies and talent agencies that specialize in voice acting for anime.
- Stay informed about casting calls and auditions by regularly checking industry websites, forums, and social media pages.
- Prepare for auditions by studying the script, understanding the character’s personality, motivations, and backstory.
- Practice delivering lines with emotion, clarity, and consistency using your own recording equipment or studio.
- Submit your audition materials promptly according to the given instructions or deadlines.
- Follow up with casting directors or agents after auditions to express your continued interest.
Securing an agent
Securing an agent is important for landing auditions and finding jobs in anime voice acting. It can be helpful to have someone who knows the industry and can connect you with opportunities. Here are some key steps to secure an agent:
- Set up a personal recording studio with basic equipment, including a USB microphone and recording software like Adobe Audition or Audacity.
- Create a voiceover demo reel that showcases your range and abilities as a voice actor. This will help agents gauge your talent and potential.
- Research and contact reputable voice acting agencies that specialize in anime or have connections within the industry, such as Crunchyroll or Funimation.
- Submit your demo reel to these agencies along with your professional headshot and resume. Highlight any relevant training, experience, or unique skills you possess.
- Be patient and persistent when contacting agents. Follow up on your submissions after a reasonable amount of time but avoid being pushy or desperate.
- Attend industry events, such as anime conventions or networking seminars, where you can meet agents face-to-face and make personal connections.
- Take advantage of online platforms like social media to showcase your work, reach out to agents directly, and network with other professionals in the field.
Remuneration in Anime Voice Acting
Anime voice actors can earn a substantial income through their work, with salaries varying depending on factors such as experience, popularity, and the size of the role.
Earnings of an anime voice actor
Anime voice actors can earn a good salary for their work. In the United States, the average annual earnings for anime voice actors are around $76,297. However, salaries can range from $13,500 to $217,000 per year.
Union dubbing gigs for anime can pay between $87 to $1,353 per four-hour session. On the other hand, in Japan, newcomers typically earn 15,000 yen per episode while veteran Rank A anime voice actors earn 45,000 yen per episode.
Starting a career as an anime voice actor can be financially rewarding with the right opportunities and experience.
Comparison of earnings between the U.S. and Japan
Anime voice acting remuneration significantly varies between the U.S. and Japan. This difference is primarily due to the varying pay scales and industry standards in both countries.
| Country | Average Earnings | Pay Scale |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $76,297 per year | Union dubbing rates range from $87 per hour to $1,353 per four-hour session for video game dubbing |
| Japan | Newcomers: 15,000 yen per episode Rank A veterans: 45,000 yen per episode |
Pay is according to a ranked system from F to A |
The table illustrates that in the United States, voice actors earn a significant annual salary with flexible rates for different projects. In contrast, Japan pays its voice actors per episode based on their ranking, which can significantly differ. Therefore, both countries offer unique opportunities and challenges for anime voice actors.
Noteworthy Anime Voice Actors
Some noteworthy anime voice actors include Christopher Sabat, Colleen Clinkenbeard, Johnny Yong Bosch, Laura Bailey, and Wendee Lee.
Christopher Sabat
Christopher Sabat is a highly respected anime voice actor with extensive experience in the industry. He possesses specific skills required for anime dubbing, such as cold reads and timing of reads to match the movement of characters’ mouths.
With his professional training as an actor, he was able to secure auditions for anime dubbing through agents or connections within the industry. Sabat places great importance on reading out loud and experimenting with different ways to deliver lines in order to bring authenticity and emotion to his characters.
He may have also attended voiceover workshops and acting schools to further hone his craft, and networked at conventions and voice acting workshops to break into the world of anime voice acting.
Colleen Clinkenbeard
Colleen Clinkenbeard is a well-known and respected anime voice actor. She has made a name for herself in the industry through her talent and dedication to her craft. Colleen is associated with other notable anime voice actors, such as Christopher Sabat and Johnny Yong Bosch.
She has lent her voice to several popular characters in anime series and movies, including Monkey D. Luffy in “One Piece” and Erza Scarlet in “Fairy Tail.” Colleen’s expertise and contributions have helped shape the world of anime voice acting, making her an influential figure in the field.
Johnny Yong Bosch
Johnny Yong Bosch is a well-known anime voice actor. He has gained recognition in the industry for his talent and hard work. Johnny Yong Bosch is not just a voice actor but also a traditionally trained actor, which adds depth to his performances.
His connections within the industry have helped him secure auditions for anime voice acting roles. To improve his skills, he has attended voiceover workshops and acting schools where he learned from professionals in the anime dubbing industry.
Johnny Yong Bosch has also taken advantage of networking opportunities at conventions to further enhance his career. In order to audition and land an agent, he has set up a personal recording studio with basic equipment.
Laura Bailey
Laura Bailey is a highly regarded anime voice actor. She has made a name for herself in the industry and is recognized as one of the notable voices in anime. Her talent and skill have placed her among other acclaimed anime voice actors.
With her impressive performances, she has contributed to the success of numerous anime series and movies. Laura Bailey’s dedication to her craft has earned her recognition from fans and fellow professionals alike, making her an influential figure in the world of anime voice acting.
Wendee Lee
Wendee Lee is a well-known anime voice actor who has made significant contributions to the industry. She is professionally trained in anime dubbing and has honed her skills by practicing vocal techniques and studying recordings of her own voice.
Wendee Lee’s experience in anime voice acting involves experimenting with different delivery styles, improving diction, speech speed, and accents. To further enhance her craft, she may have attended voiceover workshops and acting schools to learn from industry professionals.
Networking at conventions and taking voice acting workshops could also be part of Wendee Lee’s journey into the field of anime voice acting.
Major Anime Companies in the U. S.
The Pros and Cons of Being an Anime Voice Actor
Anime voice acting can be an exhilarating and rewarding career, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of being an anime voice actor.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ability to work in a creative and dynamic field. | Competition is tough in the anime voice acting industry. |
| Opportunity to network and meet new people in the industry, especially in conventions and workshops. | The job requires rigorous practice and honing of skills like cold reads and timing changes. |
| Offering your vocal talents to bring anime characters to life can be satisfying and enjoyable. | Work can be irregular and inconsistent, making income stability a challenge. |
| Having a personal recording studio allows for flexible working hours. | Building a personal recording studio requires an initial investment for equipment. |
| Average annual earnings for US anime voice actors is $76,297, which can increase with experience. | The range in earnings is wide, meaning beginners may start with lower pay. |
Building a Home Recording Studio
Building a home recording studio is important for aspiring anime voice actors. Here are the essential steps and equipment needed:
- Find a suitable location in your home, like a spare room or basement.
- Consider acoustics and invest in soundproofing materials to reduce noise interference.
- Get a good quality microphone like a USB microphone, which costs around $100-$200.
- Use headphones for monitoring your recordings to ensure clarity and consistency.
- Invest in recording software like Adobe Audition, Audacity, or GarageBand, depending on your budget and needs.
- Purchase an audio interface to connect your microphone to your computer.
- Include a pop filter to minimize plosive sounds in your recordings.
- Set up a comfortable and ergonomic workspace with a desk, chair, and proper lighting.
- Arrange any additional equipment you may need, such as mic stands or shock mounts.
- Test and adjust the sound levels to ensure clean audio recordings.
Marketing Strategies for Anime Voice Actors
Anime voice actors can market themselves by starting with outbound marketing techniques, such as attending anime conventions and networking events, before transitioning to inbound marketing strategies like building a strong online presence through social media and creating a professional website.
Additionally, increasing rates and showcasing their skills through pro bono voice acting jobs can help anime voice actors gain exposure in the industry.
Starting with Outbound Marketing
To start your journey as an anime voice actor, begin with outbound marketing. This means actively seeking out auditions and opportunities. Here are some steps to get started:
- Create a compelling voiceover demo reel showcasing your range and talent.
- Find auditions and voice acting gigs through websites, social media, and industry forums.
- Submit your demo reel and audition for roles that suit your skills and interests.
- Network with industry professionals at anime conventions and voice acting workshops.
- Consider working pro bono or for low pay initially to gain experience and build your portfolio.
- Develop a professional relationship with a voice acting agent who can help you find more opportunities.
Transitioning to Inbound Marketing
Transitioning to inbound marketing can benefit anime voice actors in several ways:
- Showcasing Skills: By creating valuable content such as blog posts, social media updates, and video tutorials, anime voice actors can demonstrate their expertise and attract a wider audience.
- Building Relationships: Through social media engagement and networking events, voice actors can connect with industry professionals, potential clients, and fans of anime to form valuable relationships.
- Increasing Visibility: Inbound marketing allows voice actors to showcase their work to a larger audience, increasing their chances of being noticed by potential clients or casting directors.
- Flexibility in Rates: Transitioning to inbound marketing gives voice actors the flexibility to set their own rates based on their skill level and experience, rather than relying solely on standard industry rates.
- Career Opportunities: By promoting themselves effectively through inbound marketing channels, voice actors have the opportunity to attract new clients and secure more voiceover gigs in the anime industry.
Increasing Your Rates
To increase your rates as an anime voice actor, it’s important to build a strong reputation and gain experience in the industry. One way to do this is by consistently delivering high-quality performances that showcase your talent and range.
Additionally, staying up-to-date with current market rates can help you negotiate fair compensation for your work. Networking with industry professionals and attending voice acting workshops can also open doors to higher-paying opportunities.
With dedication and continuous improvement, you can establish yourself as a sought-after anime voice actor and command higher rates for your skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re interested in becoming an anime voice actor, you might have some questions. Here are answers to common questions people have:.
1. How much do anime voice actors get paid? In Japan, newcomer voice actors earn around 15,000 yen per episode, while veteran actors can make up to 45,000 yen per episode.
2. What companies produce anime in the U.S.? Funimation is known for acquiring popular titles like “One Piece” and “Jujutsu Kaisen,” while Rooster Teeth creates Western-style anime series.
3. Do I need professional training to become an anime voice actor? Yes! Continuous training and coaching are important for aspiring voice actors to improve their skills and stay competitive in the industry.
4. Should I learn Japanese if I want to do anime voice acting? While it’s not a requirement, learning some Japanese can make you more desirable to Japanese anime production companies.
5. Is there a demand for anime voice actors? Absolutely! The popularity of anime has been increasing in recent years, creating more opportunities for aspiring voice actors.
Remember, breaking into the world of anime voice acting takes dedication and hard work, but with passion and persistence, you can pursue your dream career.
Conclusion
Becoming a voice actor for anime takes dedication and practice. By honing your vocal skills, studying recordings, attending workshops, and building a home recording studio, you can increase your chances of success.
Networking with industry professionals and creating an impressive voiceover demo are also important steps. While the road to becoming an anime voice actor may not be easy, the rewards of recognition and working in a high-demand industry make it worthwhile.
