I just wanted to give you a brief update on my Animation/Video Game demo reel. Hopefully, this will also serve as a virtual scrapbook so I can go back and my improvement and growth over my VO career!
First, let’s compare. Have a listen to my original self-produced Animation Demo Reel created in 2020.
Original Animation Demo Reel (Ver. 1.0)
As you can hear, this was not done particularly well. I was proud of it at the time. But let’s critique…
The Good Parts: I did have multiple samples and characters with some variation, and I thought the script had potential. I think the audio was okay but could certainly have been better.
The Not-So-Good Parts: The audio was not recorded in a well-treated booth and it is noticeable. The music and sound effects were lacking the bombastic Umph that every real demo needs. Most importantly, I did not give my best performances in that version. I mean, voice acting is just that: Acting. And this demo was not quite the best that I know I had in me.
Now, for the comparison and the big reveal!
New ‘n Improved Animation & Video Game Reel (Ver. 2.0)
Well? What do you think? An improvement if I do say so myself. I made sure to implement the suggestions and requirements that were given to me by various VAs and producers and it makes such a huge difference.
I did try to keep much of the same script and the characters, but there was so much room for experimentation that I went a little nuts with it. Notice how I extended and/or changed several voices to make more sense of the script. And I was able to get much better sound and backing to really sell the scene. I also didn’t realize how loud I can get in the booth. I guess I was always a little timid and worried that the sound will get distorted, but I’ve learned a lot about the differences between USB and XLR mics over the last year and the upgrade is noticeable.
I realize that I have a long way to go with this, but I’m really proud of Ver. 2 and I’m curious to see what I am able to do next year. I would love to hear your thoughts and feedback on either or both of these demos.
I’m going to throw this new Demo onto my other VO platforms and we’ll see if I can get more work with this guy.
I’ll let you know how it goes and I’ll see you next year!