As a voice actor, there’s nothing more satisfying than nailing a commercial read, especially when it has to fit under 30 seconds and still sound effortless.
But what happens when the script is a run-on sentence, and the timing just isn’t working? In this post, I’m sharing voice over performance tips that will help you avoid over-processing and keep your delivery sounding natural and authentic.
Recently, I voiced three different commercials all with tight time constraints and wordy scripts. A student suggested I try using a pitch stretch tool in my recording software to speed things up without changing the tone.
At first, it seemed like a great idea. But when I listened back?
It didn’t sound like me.
It sounded like a robot.
Overprocessing Hurts More Than It Helps
Technology can be an amazing support tool in voice over. But when you rely on it to “fix” your performance, you risk losing the very thing that makes your voice stand out: your authenticity.
That over-processed version lacked nuance. It stripped away the human quality that connects with listeners and books the job.
Voice Over Performance Tips: Trust Your Technique
Rather than asking the software to do the work, I went back and used my technique:
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Adjusted phrasing and pacing
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Focused on clarity without losing emotion
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Found where I could naturally tighten the read while keeping it grounded
And guess what? It worked and it still sounded like me.
Use Tools Wisely, But Let Your Voice Lead
Remember: when in doubt, keep it real. These voice over performance tips are here to help your natural voice shine, not be hidden behind a plugin.
Editing tools can be helpful, but they should enhance your voice, not replace it. If you listen back and you sound like a machine, it’s time to dial it back.
Because your voice, unfiltered and expressive, is what makes the performance shine.
So the next time you’re dealing with a tricky read, remember:
Keep it real. Let your actual sound do the talking.
Have questions about starting your voice acting journey or finding voice acting online opportunities? Book your free Discovery Call, and I’ll be happy to provide guidance!