By: Nate Myers
For an aspiring Voice Over Artist, the demo reel is an absolutely essential tool that is often overlooked. Welcome to Demo Reel 101.
· Perhaps you have heard it mentioned a couple of times but are not sure what it actually is.
· Maybe you know what it is but don't know where to start.
· Maybe you're almost there but need some polishing touches to really sell yourself.
If any of these statements sound familiar, this article is written for you!
What is a Voice Over Demo Reel?
Think of a demo reel as a highlight montage of your voice: your greatest moments, and most spectacular performances, all combined together. Essentially a demo reel is this compilation of your finest work.
Traditionally (and still sometimes today), a purely audio demo reel was common practice. If you've ever seen a clip or watched episodes of The Voice, it is a popular TV show where judges turn their backs and listen to a singer. Without their eyes, they judge the voice on its intrinsic qualities alone—no visual bias. An audio demo reel helps you fit in that same mold. In all cases, but especially in a 100% audio format, professional production is essential to set you apart (more on that later).
Ideally, you would have a demo reel in video and audio form. These days, video translates easily to TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube shorts, etc. A demo reel is a killer way to put yourself on social media. If you can build a following or stand out from the crowd, why wouldn't you want that?
Voice over demo examples found on the Voice Shop's sister company, Creative Media Design:
https://www.cmdnyc.com/voice-over-talent-casting
Why Record a Demo Reel?
Obviously, this isn't an article about social media prowess. So, what is the true value of a demo reel? Professionally it serves as your resume to casting agencies, websites, and direct applications. Obviously, a written resume for voice over is nice, but when it comes to art (music, singing, voice-over), it is something better experienced with your senses. A demo reel bridges that gap and allows potential opportunities to gauge your abilities and get a true sense of your voice. Let your potential employers get a true taste of your voice. Because it exists as digital media, clients can listen to it directly online. In a world that is becoming more remote than ever, live auditions are on their way out. Demos are the way to go.
How Do I Get Started on My Demo Reel?
First, identify your target audience. You may say, "Wait, this sounds like marketing!" And you would be correct. A Demo Reel is an independent contractor's marketing content. You are marketing yourself.
In identifying your target audience, it is helpful to think of this in terms of desired work. Do you want to go into Podcast Hosting? Animation? Audiobooks? Commercial Advertising? Each of these requires a different skill set. You would hate to send a clever, animated voice to someone looking to cast a serious voice for a biography. Know your audience and cater the content of your demo reel to that audience.
If you are just getting started, you may not know which part of the industry you want to work within. This is perfectly normal! We can help with that. The Voice Shop offers classes for all aspects of the voice-over industry. Seasoned voice coaches teach these classes. To find out more on upcoming voice classes in animation, commercial voice over, and more, check out our Class Schedule: http://www.voiceshopcoaching.com/class-schedule
Recording Your Demo Reel
The recording method you use for your demo reel will determine the end quality of your work. Remember, this is your voice-over resume. Get this part right. Many aspiring voice artists will not have the home studio necessary to produce high-integrity audio or video demos. It is helpful to enlist some professionals. Surprise! The Voice Shop can help with that as well. We offer professional recording, producing, and mastering services to all our students. This service often flies under the radar but can be the singular distinguishing detail that sets you above the competition. We can help record, add background tracks, edit the takes to include only your best work, etc. We also have connections if you need a studio for recording. Visit this page to learn more about our Demo Reel services and hear a couple of examples of demos we've helped create in the past: https://www.cmdnyc.com/audio-post-mixing
And that's it! The Voice Shop is here to help you learn about the industry, your voice, your unique voice, and its character, and also to help you sell all those great things to your future employers. So what are you waiting for?
