Why Location Doesn't Matter for New Voice Actors

Feel LIke You Can’t Succeed Because You Live in a Small Town?

Here’s a little secret. Your location doesn’t matter. If you have the tools needed and the drive to connect, that’s half the battle.

I always dreamed of voicing an infomercial and I ended up landing a dream spot for a half hour infomercial for a beauty brand. The studio that I was connecting to was located outside of Los Angeles. When I was getting settled into the studio, I was patched into the audio engineer running the session. He asked me where I was located and when I said “Ohio,” he kind of chuckled. I had to assure him that I didn’t roll through cow fields to get to the studio, but that I was in fairly large city. We had a good laugh, but the thought did occur to me after my session that some folks may be deterred because of the misconception that you need to be in a large market to succeed. So let me shed some light on the topic for you.

Let me assure you: in today's digital age, location is no longer a barrier for those with the passion and talent to succeed in this field. Allow me to debunk the myth that your physical location determines your success as a voice actor and explore how technology has opened up a world of opportunities for voice artists, regardless of where they reside.

Gone are the days when voice actors needed to live in major entertainment hubs like Los Angeles or New York to secure work. Thanks to advancements in technology, the industry has undergone a transformative shift, making remote work not just feasible but increasingly prevalent. With the rise of high-speed internet, affordable recording equipment, and innovative communication platforms, voice actors can now collaborate with clients and production teams from anywhere in the world.

How Tech is Helping Voice Actors

One of the most significant technological advancements that have empowered voice actors is the internet. With platforms like Voices.com, Voice123, and Bodalgo, talent from every corner of the globe can showcase their skills to a global audience. These online marketplaces connect voice actors with clients seeking their services, transcending geographical boundaries and opening doors to opportunities that were once out of reach.

The evolution of digital audio recording technology has democratized the industry, allowing voice actors to create professional-quality recordings from the comfort of their own homes. Gone are the days of needing access to expensive recording studios or having to commute to auditions. Today, all you need is a quiet, treated space to record, a solid microphone, and recording software to produce a pro sound for your clients.

Furthermore, communication tools such as Zoom, Slack, and Microsoft Teams have revolutionized the way voice actors collaborate with clients and production teams. Whether you're discussing project details, receiving feedback, or participating in remote recording sessions, these platforms make it seamless to stay connected regardless of geographical distances.

But perhaps the most compelling argument for why location doesn't matter for voice actors lies in the nature of the work itself. Voice acting is a highly versatile profession that encompasses a wide range of roles, from animated characters to commercial voiceovers to audiobook narration. With such diverse opportunities available, clients are more interested in finding the perfect voice for their project rather than focusing on where that voice is located.

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work practices across industries, including entertainment. As studios and production companies adapt to new ways of operating, the demand for remote voice actors has only increased. And it would seem that this shift towards remote collaboration is likely to persist even after the pandemic subsides, further solidifying the notion that location is no longer a determining factor for success in the voice acting industry.

Of course, while technology has undoubtedly made it easier for voice actors to work from anywhere, success in this field still requires talent, dedication, and perseverance. Building a successful career as a voice actor takes time and effort, regardless of where you're based. But with the right skills, mindset, and tools at your disposal, you can carve out a fulfilling career in voice acting from virtually any location.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the idea that location matters for new voice talent is a relic of the past. In today's digital age, technology has leveled the playing field, allowing talent to shine regardless of where they call home. So if you're passionate about voice acting, don't let your geographical location hold you back. Embrace the opportunities that technology has afforded us and embark on your journey to becoming a successful voice actor, no matter where you are in the world…even in the fields of Ohio. 😉

Lastly, use technology to your advantage - not only for recording purposes but also in your business. If you are looking for recommendations to make your freelance business run a little smoother, check out some business tools I used regularly.