5 Strategies From Daran Norris & Kendall Schmidt

In the entertainment industry, voice acting plays a pivotal role in bringing characters to life, particularly in animation, video games, and various forms of media. Two notable talents in this field, Daran Norris and Kendall Schmidt, have crafted successful careers through their unique approaches and strategies in voice work. This blog post delves into five strategies they employ, which can help anyone looking to master the art of voice acting.

1. Understanding Character Nuances

Daran Norris, known for roles like Cosmo in The Fairly OddParents, emphasizes the importance of understanding the character's background, emotions, and motivation. Here's how he does it:

• Research: Deep dive into the character's origin story, personality traits, and even their environment.
• Emotional Connection: Connect with the character's feelings. For instance, to voice Cosmo, Norris had to capture the essence of a naive, childlike spirit.
• Voice Experimentation: Try different voices to see what fits the character's persona best.

Example: When voicing characters with contrasting personalities like Wade Load in Kim Possible and Big Chill in Ben 10, Norris changes his vocal range, tone, and speech patterns to match each character's distinct identity.

<p class="pro-note">👩‍🎨 Pro Tip: Remember, it's not just about changing your voice; it's about embodying the character's soul.</p>

2. Physicality in Voice Acting

Kendall Schmidt, who transitioned from live-action television to voice acting with roles in projects like My Little Pony: The Movie, uses physical movements to enhance his voice acting:

• Body Language: Use gestures, facial expressions, and posture to influence your voice. Physicality adds depth to the performance.
• Mimicry: Mimic animals, machines, or other sounds to find unique voice qualities.
• Tension and Relaxation: Adjust your body's tension to control voice quality, breath control, and resonance.

Scenario: Schmidt might hunch over and frown when voicing a grumpy old man, bringing authenticity to the character's tone.

3. Voice Maintenance and Care

Both Norris and Schmidt stress the importance of taking care of their instrument - their voice:

• Hydration: Keep your vocal cords lubricated by drinking plenty of water.
• Vocal Warm-Ups: Engage in vocal exercises before sessions to prepare your voice.
• Rest and Recovery: Allow your voice to rest between intense sessions to avoid strain.

<p class="pro-note">🎙️ Pro Tip: Regularly use a humidifier in your vocal booth or at home to combat dryness, especially in colder or dry environments.</p>

4. Continuous Learning and Practice

Neither artist rests on their laurels. Here's what they do:

• Regular Auditions: Even with established careers, they audition for new roles to keep their skills sharp.
• Workshops and Classes: Attend or even teach workshops to learn new techniques and share knowledge.
• Mentorship: Both have taken on roles as mentors, helping others in the industry grow.

Tip: Practice different accents, dialects, and emotional tones. You never know when a particular skill will come in handy.

5. Versatility in Roles

Their careers are marked by their ability to voice multiple characters within the same project:

• Voice Modulation: Change your pitch, speed, and intonation to differentiate characters.
• Character Archiving: Keep a record of characters you've voiced to avoid confusion and to develop them over time.
• Embracing Challenges: Don’t shy away from challenging roles; they can be career-defining.

Example: Norris has voiced both Mr. Turner and Dad Turner in The Fairly OddParents, showcasing his versatility in creating distinct voices for related characters.

<p class="pro-note">🎥 Pro Tip: Even if you’re known for one type of voice or character, always be ready to surprise audiences and casting directors with something entirely different.</p>

In the wrap-up, Daran Norris and Kendall Schmidt exemplify the dedication, creativity, and continuous learning required to thrive in voice acting. Their strategies can inspire anyone entering this field or looking to refine their skills. Whether you're an aspiring voice actor or a seasoned professional, their techniques offer a blueprint for success. Explore more tutorials on voice acting, character development, and performance techniques to further enrich your craft.

To conclude:

<p class="pro-note">🏆 Pro Tip: Building a versatile voice acting portfolio will not only increase your marketability but also enhance your love for the craft.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I find my unique voice for a character?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Start by analyzing the character's personality, background, and intended audience. Experiment with different vocal qualities, inflections, and emotional ranges to find a voice that captures the essence of the character.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What are the best practices for vocal warm-ups?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Engage in exercises like lip trills, tongue twisters, and sirens to warm up your vocal cords. Practice deep breathing and vocal scales to reach all registers of your voice.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I maintain my voice during long recording sessions?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Stay hydrated, take regular breaks, use a microphone with a pop filter to reduce strain, and practice vocal hygiene by avoiding caffeine and alcohol before sessions.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>