A Cyber Book by Steve IrwinA Cyber Book by Steve IrwinForward by Jeff McNeal, president - Jeff McNeal Productions
Ever since I started this web site in 1996, I've been inundated with phone calls and E-Mail from people wanting to become involved in voice overs -- they just don't know where to begin. Over the course of a decade, I got to know Steve Irwin, first as a producer when he was running his San Diego, California recording studio, then, as a very close friend as time went on. Steve spent considerable time writing this booklet, which was originally intended to accompany a seminar on voice overs. I have read his words of wisdom and let me tell you, as someone with over 30 years in the voice recording business, 
I was able to instantly identify with the information Steve conveys. In a clear and concise manner, Steve provides a no-nonsense roadmap to becoming a voice over talent. By the time you finish reading the information Steve provides, you will have no doubt as to whether or not you have what it takes to become a successful voice talent. Seasoned veterans can gain some useful insights from this booklet, too. I know that I certainly have.
As a free-lance voice talent, in addition to my duties associated with Jeff McNeal Productions LLC, I've seen my audition success -- and bookings, increase since implementing a few "tricks of the trade" I gleaned from Steve's book. Tell you what, I'm so confident that you'll receive valued information that if you order this cyber-booklet and don't feel like you've gotten your monies worth, I'll refund your purchase price anytime in the first 30 days -- and you can keep the booklet. How's that for an endorsement? To learn more about Jeff McNeal's career in voiceovers, visit JeffMcNeal.com.
About the author of How To Break Into Radio and TV Voice-Overs
Steve Irwin started his career in radio as an on-air personality more than forty years ago. While in broadcasting he wore many hats, from spinning records to newscaster to production director to assistant program director to program director. After ten years in radio he left broadcasting to focus on becoming a free-lance voice-over talent. He made the rounds of advertising agencies and production companies in New York City and eventually was busy voicing commercials, documentaries and industrial films for local, regional and national clients. However, the love of audio production eventually brought him to Phoenix for five years and then to San Diego, where he owned and operated his own recording studios specializing in voice production. After sixteen years in business in San Diego he sold his lucrative recording studio to enjoy the fruits of his labor.
The entire text is available through authorized download, for only $19.95 US, payable by Visa or MasterCard. The entire text will be sent to you, via e-mail, just minutes after you place your order.
Introduction
In this chapter, the author helps you define your goals. Are you looking to make a lot of money? Do you want to be famous? Do you hear voices in commercials and say "I can do that". If you believe you've got the talent and there's something inside of you that says I've got to do this , then in this book, you will find detailed information to help you get started.
What is a voice-over?
This chapter explains the meaning of the term "voice-over" and the steps that are involved in participating in a recording session as a voice over "talent" or "actor"..
Where are voice-overs used?
Voice-overs aren't for broadcast commercials only! In this chapter, the author provides a valuable road map to several areas where your voice can be used to generate an income.
Financial Rewards
So, exactly how much money can be made doing voice-overs? In this chapter, Steve Irwin reveals the standard rates that most voice actors can command, including local and national rates that are garnered by members of the performers union that supports major market voice-over talent. Find out exactly how much you can earn doing voice overs in your spare time, or full-time!
Types of voice-overs
Before you can earn an income as a voice-over announcer, you'll need to understand the various types of voices that are used and why. This important chapter can help you discover your own, unique "niche" in the voice-over industry.
Impressions
Are celebrity impressions required for voice-over success? The answer may surprise you. If you can do impressions, learn what separates the pros from the amateurs in this informative chapter. Make your impressions stand out and be recognized -- without the benefit of visual clues.
Acting
In order to be successful at voice-overs you need to be a good actor. You may not win any Academy awards for doing voice-overs, but in this chapter the author will help you unleash your creative side and help you win the parts -- that pay.
Getting started
Since acting is the key to doing voice-overs, then taking an acting class or an acting workshop is a good way to begin. Some suggestions on where to go to get started and how to turn your emotions into cash.
A Tip
In this chapter, Steve Irwin shares his valuable insight into the thoughts of the producer or studio owner. Some important dos and don'ts that will save you time, embarassment and disappointment. The secrets of the pros are unlocked on these pages.
The Audition Tape
The business card of the voice-over talent. With a great audition tape, you can go very far. With a marginal or bad audition tape, you'll be finished before you can ever begin. Steve Irwin shares over 35 years of successful audition tape production and guides you in the critical area of constructing a successful audition tape that best showcases your talents.
Scripts
Every great audition tape begins with a good script. The best audition tapes feature several. Find out why scripts are so important, where to find them, what they should contain, and what to do with them.
Your tape
In this chapter, the author guides you in the actual construction of your personal audition tape. Providing valuable insight on what to lead with - and what to avoid. Steve Irwin will show you how to put your best foot foward, saving you time and money in the recording studio.
The commercial side
This chapter breaks the audition tape into two sides. The commercial side of your demo will probably be listened to the most. Chances are this is the side of the tape that will bring you the financial rewards you're seeking. Take the time to make it right. In this chapter, you'll learn how.
The narration side
Narrations are used on corporate videos, audio visual slide shows, training videos, documentaries, sales promotion tapes and point of sale advertising, to name just a few. Steve Irwin will show you how to make an industrial narration demo that will command attention and respect.
The Recording Studio
Most newcomers to the voice-over business don't have access to a recording studio to create their demo tape. In this chapter, the author shows you how to find the right studio for your needs and teaches you how to create a quality audition tape at a reasonable cost. What to expect, how to relax during the session and more.
Cassette Duplication & Distribution
How many tapes should you send out? And to where? Find the answers in this chapter.
Auditions
A necessary component in the life of a voice talent. Here are just a few tips on how to prepare for the audition and how to get through this sometimes nerve-wracking, sometimes easy experience. Sometimes you win. Sometimes you lose. This chapter will teach you how to increase your chances of winning -- and maintaining your confidence when you don't.
Performers Unions
There are two unions that may be a part of your career. AFTRA; American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, and SAG; Screen Artists Guild. Learn the pros and cons of union membership -- and how doing voice-overs professionally can lead to retirement income and health benefits.
Self Promotion
The mastery of self-promotion can mean the difference in a six-figure income or starvation in the voice-over business. This chapter provides a valuable "how-to" lesson in self promotion.
Special Bonus!
If you order Steve Irwin's cyber-booklet today, you will also receive Jeff McNeal's actual working voiceover demo for study and analysis. Provided in the MP3 format, this professional recording will give you an idea of what an actual demo sounds like! FYI, Jeff is currently one of Southern California's leading voice talents, appearing in numerous national television, radio, satellite broadcast and industrial narration campaigns.
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