Voice Acting Tip #3

Standing or sitting? Some say standing is better for your breathing and gives you more freedom to move around and really get into the character. While others say they're more comfortable sitting and can give the same performance as when they're standing.

There isn't a right or wrong way, but it is true that one way can work better for some and not for others. It's up to you to decide whether you should sit or stand. Try them both and really let loose each way so you know exactly which one is better for you.

Now, let's hope your mic will be able to accommodate for both. Try 'em out and find out the best method for you.

Totally agree. For most speaking, there is no benefit to standing over sitting. If you are going to sit, though, try and use proper performance posture to remain alert, engaged vocally and physically, and to allow the best breath controll.

-Sit at the front of the chair, not the back. This will allow you to sit up straight without the temptation to rest against the back. This is most important when working with a mic stand so you do not have to lean forward towards the mic. Leaning can put strain on your diaphragm, causes your shoulders to slump and your chest cavity to not be as free to expand with good, deep breaths. Good posture is most important for screams, shouting, anything that will require a good, strong, controlled flow of air.

-Keep your shoulders back and your sternum raised with both feet planted on the floor to achieve good performance posture. If you're a girl, and statistically the chances are pretty good as an AVA, this will feel a little awkward because you'll in effect be presenting your breasts up and out but that's a pretty decent gauge for whether you are sitting correctly. If it hurts in any way, abort. Spine abnormalities or just plain doing it wrong can cause discomfort that will hamper your performance as well as risk injury to yourself.

-If you are using a mic stand, make sure it is adjusted to a hight that makes it reasonable for you to be able to speak with your head straight. You don't want to be looking up or down if possible. If holding a mic, don't rest your mic hand/arm against your body but rather point your elbow away from your body. This maintains a free ribcage for expansion.

-Feel free to relax between takes and adopt a normal posture. If you are not used to a performance posture you may begin to feel uncomfortable or tired after prolonged periods of time, especially along your abdomen if you have been breathing correctly.

-Most important, don't let good posture get in the way of acting. If you are portraying a timid character and you feel more in character when you slouch and duck your head, go for it. Let your instincts and the emotions get you physically where you need to be.