Voice Over Genres

Oftentimes, when I’m at a networking event and I tell someone that I’m a voice actor, the first response is usually, “Really?! Cool!” Followed by, “Where have I heard you? I love animation!”
I proudly say, “Voice actors are everywhere!”

Here’s a quick rundown and examples of various genres of voice-over.

 Commercials: Advertising and/or a call to action. Voice actors can be heard on radio, online, or on TV.

 Promo: Promos typically have more energy than trailers. “Tonight at 7 on ACN news!”

 Movie Trailer: “Gremlins. Rated PG-13. Only in theatres.”

 Video games: Not only are voice actors having conversations with other characters, but they are also making sounds called exertions. i.e., grunts during a fighting scene.

 Animation: Voice actors are characters in children’s and adult programs seen on TV or in the movies.

 Radio Imaging: The voice of the radio station. “WBRG FM. Only in the Burg!”

 In-show TV Narration: The voice guiding the audience through a story i.e., a documentary, reality TV show.

 E-Learning/Corporate Narration: Training modules. The voice actor’s job is to make the script sound engaging to the listener.

 Voice of God: The voice you hear in the theatre. “Ladies and gentlemen, please silence all mobile devices. The program will begin in 5 minutes.”

 Live Announcer: This could be the sports announcer or the announcer at an awards ceremony.

 Telephony: The voice guiding you through a business phone directory isn’t always automated. Oftentimes, it’s a friendly voice actor!

 Radio Drama: This genre is reminiscent of a play, but the audience is brought into the story through an auditory experience.

Voice over consists of many exciting genres, and there’s a different set of skills for each. Next time you run into a voice actor at a networking event, ask them what genre they work in. They’ll
be pleasantly surprised.