VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

[CJVoiceovers]

I've seen a number of companies out there that offer "packages" that typically include a voice evaluation, an hour or two of coaching, some training materials, and finally a recording session for a demo.

Your thoughts on using one of these companies to get the demo recorded would be appreciated. Any of these companies you'd recommend or suggest be avoided?

Thanks for any tips!

[bobsouer]

CJ, (I'll assume for the moment that's how you're called)

I would run in the other direction as fast as my legs can carry me.
_________________
Be well,
Bob Souer (just think of lemons)
The second nicest guy in voiceover.
+1-724-613-2749
Source Connect, phone patch, pony express

[Dan-O]

Ditto what Bob said.

Here's a thread that might answer a few of your questions:

http://www.vo-bb.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=7302&start=0&postdays=0&postorder=asc&highlight=getting+started

[Lee Gordon]

If someone offered you a course in airplane building that included an aptitude test, a couple hours of training and supervision, and some materials, at the end of which you got to build your own plane, would you want to fly in it?
_________________
Lee Gordon, O.A.V.
Voice President of the United States
www.leegordonproductions.com
Twitter: @LeeGordonVoice

[Moe Egan]

Beware the snake oil sales people. There ain't no miracle elixir or one shot class that can get you ready for a demo.
_________________
Moe Egan
i want to be the voice in your head.
~~~~~

[Philip Banks]

Trust them to deliver. Accept everything they say, everything they offer and pay the price they ask. One condition, the person selling needs to give you the contact details of three people who as a result of using their services is now making a living or a regular additional income as a Voice Over.

Here is a key point - It is impossible for someone to teach you how to become a Voice Over, you are either able to do it or you aren't. There are people out there who may be able to help you become a better Voice Over but they are few and far between.

[Deirdre]

When you're just getting started, the last thing you want is a demo that was made in one or two sessions.

It will SOUND like it was made in one or two sessions.
It won't sound like you're spent any time developing your technique and style.

Those demos go right in the round file.
_________________
DBCooperVO.com
IMDB

[todd ellis]

i would just like to mention that everything db says has an automatic exclamation point via her avatar.
_________________
"i know philip banks": todd ellis
who's/on/1st?

[Deirdre]

!
_________________
DBCooperVO.com
IMDB

[Jeffrey Kafer]

To piggyback onto what Deebs said. In the very off-chance that the demo sounds good through post production and studio tricks, you won't have had enough training to deliver on what the demo promises.
_________________
Jeff
http://JeffreyKafer.com
Voice-overload Web comic: http://voice-overload.com

[Moe Egan]

That is the worst case scenario Kafer, when you can't deliver on the promises of your demo. Clients will remember you for that...not the way you want to get known! Youch.
_________________
Moe Egan
i want to be the voice in your head.
~~~~~

[bobbinbeamo]

Be sure to listen to other demos made by the "vendor", and listen carefully. Ask for references. Beware of scams and pariahs who are most adept at separating you from your money.
_________________
Bobbin Beam
www.bobbinbeam.com
blog.bobbinbeam.com

[Bailey]

In saying, "a number of companies out there"... I'm assuming you mean the Internet? If not, have you checked out any local companies... dependent on your location... wherever that may be?
_________________
"Bailey"
a.k.a. Jim Sutton
Retired... Every day is Saturday, except Sunday.
VO-BB Member #00044 .gif" alt="W00T" border="0" />
AOVA Graduate 02/2004 ;
"Be a Voice, not an Echo."

[CarlWelden]

First is an introductory workshop open to the public. Like one offered in an ongoing adult education program.
Then comes the call back from one of their coaches/marketing attack dogs with an evaluation saying that "you have what it takes, but you better act now"

Then the offer you can't refuse: an expensive session bundle where you will be given special inside industry knowledge punctuated by a professional demo recording.
Credit card number please.......
If it feels rushed, there's a red flag right there.

The suggestion to listen to other demos they've produced is well worth heeding. Take care to note if they are recordings of actual students/clients or their in-house production staff. Usually they won't offer up their student roster....wonder why?
_________________
Carl Welden
http://www.carlwelden.com
A Welden voice is a well-done voice
SKYPE ID: carlwelden42

[Deirdre]

It really is quite sad to hear a demo that cost someone $4 grand and know it is completely, absolutely unusable.
_________________
DBCooperVO.com
IMDB