Voice Overs: A technique which enables voice to greatly enhance viewing.

The latest advancements in technology have had a major effect within the industry of entertainment; improvements that have made the viewing experience of audiences even more interesting and entertaining. One more than ever deserves mention: production houses have started using voiceovers in productions with immense and impressive effect in a particular scene by introducing an unseen storyteller to express emotions and thoughts orally while the scene is being played out on stage or on television.

What are voiceovers? They are really a technique used in production where a speaker is used to verbally express opinions or thoughts in theatre, film presentations, TV or on radio. This feature allows viewers to listen to the thoughts that relate to the visuals that are being observed on stage or on screen without actually seeing the person speaking.
In animated films and cartoons, by the use of voice overs, character and personality can be imparted to the characters in many successful television and film presentations so that those actors appear real and engaging. How did you relate to Tom and Jerry, Mickey Mouse and other such animated characters in your early days?

Voice overs are successfully exploited to give the effect of reflection or storytelling while the protagonist is currently onscreen. In many cases, his of her innermost thoughts may not necessarily be expressed by that person in a particular scene, yet what is being said very much relates to what the audience is seeing at that moment. This technique is very useful in enabling viewers to enter into the storyline and plot, as well as the perspective and emotions of the characters.

Voice overs have also been widely used in live sports broadcasts when announcers are giving their perspective on important sporting events. Because of these technological advancements sports have become more interactive and communicative, as announcers of baseball, basketball, football matches and numerous other sports give the audience a play by play account of what is occurring on the court or field. Through these methods viewing sports on TV has become a much loved spare time activity for people in many countries.

Another very successful use of voice overs is on game shows, where this technique was commonly practiced in the past for introducing contestants who were participating in the show or competition. It was also frequently used to announce and describe prizes that would be given to winners of particular competitions. On reflection, your memory might now be jogged to remember hearing a distinctively recognizable voice on many television game shows.

Several of the most popular names of voiceover artists over the years include Nancy Cartwright, Hank Azaria, Chris Rock, James Earl Jones and Don LaFountaine. Obviously, there are many others, but these in particular have the tone of voice that is instantly recognized by most listeners. In spite of this, it is now relatively easy for a newcomer to the industry to secure a position for voice over work.

Voice overs without doubt enhance the viewing experience, whether on television, in film or in theater. The effect that a voiceover has in a particular presentation or scene can be extremely compelling and can produce an atmosphere that would otherwise be unattainable. Watch out for such an occurrence the next time you are viewing a presentation and consider the effect it has on you individually.