AeronMusic 2013-08-20 11:55:38

This text is impressive. Everyone has talent right? Some still have to discover it. But good work on this text. I agree with you every aspect, besides im not a voice actor.

Troisnyx 2013-08-20 12:19:49

EXACTLY.

I have essentially posted on my own Tumblr (and Blogspot) about me setting lines on what music or VA projects I do. Not merely because of the image, but because I consider my work an apostolate. An avenue to bring about beauty, goodness and truth. And if this is such, I must do it ALL the time, not sometimes, and not once in a blue moon.

Cue incoming comments and reblogs about how I am limiting myself as an artist by not accepting everything, and that everyone will fantasise even about people in modest clothes, so it makes no difference if I'm VA-ing for something equivalent of Jersey Shore or The Only Way is Essex.

No, enough of that. My talents were given to me, and they go at a very HIGH price. I cannot say yes to any Tom, Dick, Harry or Mary who asks for my voice or songs, because not only will it hurt me, but also, in ways unseen, the people watching or listening to my work. I can't associate myself with such degradation...

VicariousE 2013-08-20 16:10:53

I was in video production before the internet was as widespread as it is now, and can understand and appreciate your insights into work-for-hire type stuff. The problems you describe, happen at all levels.

RobSoundtrack 2013-08-20 18:44:47

This message is Rated E for Exactly

thatawkwardkid 2013-08-20 20:07:39

exactly why i dont work with people who are makeing "the next great video game" and all that when they are not expirienced with programing at all. anyway, the point is people need to realize there skill and know they cant ask for super great people. wich is why i guess its hard for me to find a actual legitamite voice actor because everyone says their good, but cant actually do it. ive learned to lower my standerds and accept crappy voice actors.

ech0tan 2013-08-22 13:24:18

Word up, Phoamz. I completely agree.

Budj 2013-08-22 21:46:52

I don't 100% agree. Working for free (to start with anyway) can be a really good thing. It shows your willingness to get your voice out there, it's excellent exposure and animators you work with WILL recommend you to other animators (which leads to paid work). It builds your portfolio and you meet more clients. I doubt Rina-chan would be where she is now if she turned down a bunch of unpaid jobs in her early days on NG.

ChronoNomad 2013-08-24 19:24:55

Right on, sister. It's a shame that the world of voice acting is always such a trial by fire, but quickly learning who to trust and when to question is vital. Learning to be selective is better than having low expectations any day, and once it gets out that you're giving it all away for free, rebuilding a reputation where people take you seriously takes a whole heck of a lot more effort. I hate doing it just as much as everyone else, but sometimes saying no is the only way to be true to yourself.

In short: Nobody likes being used, and everybody likes getting paid!

etherealwinds 2013-08-24 20:17:32

Feisty Phoamz - I approve >:)

S3C 2013-10-07 17:40:41

"apostolate"- cool I learned a new word today!!!

I cannot say I fully agree with this; the parts that I do agree with, generally are pretty much a given. While audio may be one of the more underrated aspects of visual media projects- in general, they take less time (and are more open to interpretation) than animating, drawing, and programming a full project to its fruition. With that said, audio decisions (music atleast) are typically made in the latter stages of a project, so if someone's asking you to do a VA or other audio-related job with out showing you any progress on their work, that should immediately raise red flags...therefore, you shouldn't agree to any terms and put yourself in a position to be disappointed.

Obviously no one can take on every project they are handed. In and of itself it's a privilege to reach a state where such a large amount of people take interest in your work, and this already entails that you've surpassed the stage where gaining exposure is a priority. It's also a rare opportunity (considering the entirety of the world) to even be able to have a medium to express your talents, which I believe is not something you shouldnt put a price too. I'll stop here, before I get all preachy and politcal...