Marc Graue : World Class Voice Over Coach-Legendary Demo Producer

Marc Graue’s 50 Tips for Becoming an Animation Voice Over Actor

​Learn acting before focusing on funny voices.
Study classic cartoons and modern animated performances. Create characters with emotional depth, not just vocal tricks.
Practice reading scripts with strong energy and timing.
Record yourself often and listen objectively.
Learn how to switch characters quickly. B
uild believable personalities for every role. S
tudy improvisation to increase creativity. L
earn comedic timing and pacing.
Understand how exaggeration works in animation.
Avoid pushing your voice unnaturally.
Protect your vocal health at all times.
Warm up before every session.
Stay hydrated during long recordings.
Practice reactions, laughs, cries, screams, and effort sounds.
Learn how to take direction instantly.
​Be flexible and willing to experiment.
Develop a strong work ethic and professionalism.
Practice creating characters from visual artwork alone.
Learn accents only if you can perform them consistently.
Study human behavior and emotions carefully.
Make every character sound emotionally truthful.
Learn to act physically while recording.
Avoid using the same character voice repeatedly. 
Build a professional home studio. Learn microphone technique and audio basics. Keep recordings clean and free of noise. Learn proper audition formatting and file delivery.
Create a strong animation demo reel. Keep your demo short, fast, and entertaining.
Put your best character first on your demo.
Update demos regularly as your skills improve. 
Train with respected acting and voice over coaches.
Study animated films, anime, and television series critically.
Learn lip-sync timing and dubbing basics.
Develop strong storytelling instincts.
Practice ensemble scenes with other actors.
Learn how animation sessions are directed.
Network professionally with casting directors and studios.
ttend workshops, conventions, and industry events. Build a professional website showcasing your demos. Stay active on social media professionally. 
Create original characters regularly.
Learn how to market yourself effectively.
Accept rejection as part of the business.
Continue learning throughout your career. 
Stay passionate and curious about animation.
Focus on consistency, not instant success.
Be memorable without forcing performances.
​Remember that the best animation actors make audiences believe the character is real.