The Hip Chick Voice Blog!

Ever Have a Day Like This?

Caryn Clark — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:17:59 GMT

Yesterday, I drove to Tampa for a recording session for the Tampa Museum of Science and Industry. They're creating an exhibit for kids about puberty.

The session was wonderful. The people I worked with were absolutely fantastic, and it was a really fun session.

Getting TO the session... well, that was an adventure. Here is the abridged version, with just the facts. It's long, but there is a moral to the story.

- Me at the toll booth to get on the expressway - about 20 miles from my destination. 1 pm (session at 2:30). I ask the toll attendant, "Ummm... is there smoke coming from the bottom of my car?" She replies, "Why YES, there is!" Me, "Oh NO!", and I pull over into the parking lot by the toll booth.

- Me on phone with hubby - had me check various things. Hubby: "Get to a service station asap. Don't drive the car too far - get off on the first exit." Me: "OK, I'm in the middle of nowhere on an expressway, don't know when the first exit is, but ok." Thoughts running thru my head: do I call and cancel the session? How long is it going to take me to find a service station? Where am I?

- Now driving. I pass a couple of exits b/c the areas look shady and I can't see any service-type stations. I'm getting close to downtown Tampa and decided, ok, I need to get off at the next exit... I've probably driven the car too long as it is. I did, and just as I went down the ramp, what do I see? A Firestone Service Station!!!!!!!!! I tell you, I thought I couldn't have gotten any luckier!!!!!!!!! But I do.... just wait.

- Manager at the station says, "No Problem, sure we can check it out. Got the key?" I go out to the car, grab the key and my stuff, including the box of cookies. Me: "Should I call a cab (It's about 1:20 now) to get to my appt?" Him: "Yeah if you have some place to be, you should, that way we can work on the car. Hmmm... meet me out front."

- Out front, Manager pulls up in his truck opens the back door, says "Put your bag in here." Me: "You're going to take me?" Him: "Yup!!!!"

I was in absolute disbelief at the generousity and kindness of this man. He drove me to my appt. I was early, and hungry. Found a McDonalds at the hospital around the corner (why is there a McDonald's in a hospital? Only added to the humor of the day).

Made it to my session, where they handed me a check prior to the session even starting. Again, disbelief!!!

A friend picked me up after the session and dropped me off at the service station. Although, I know my new friends from the session were quite willing to give me a ride, but I had already made the arrangements with my friend. Again, what generousity!!!

Car was still on the lift when I arrived. They checked everything they could and found nothing wrong with the car, nor could they replicate the problem. Manager told me it was safe to drive home. Could be any number of things. Hands me the bill. $26!!!!! Unbelievable.

That manager made what could have been a very stressful experience THE most pleasant experience possible. I can't believe my good fortune in finding that service station and meeting this man. Talk about good karma and paying it forward. Lesson to all of us.

Called the corporate HQ of Firestone and raved about this man. They're going to notify his District Manager and their higher ups. Hubby's going to write a note to the Manager thanking him for taking care of his wife, and the manager is going to receive a very nice gift certificate of some sort. Far as I'm concerned, the manager deserves a huge raise!!!

I'm still utterly amazed. And, I'm going to play the lottery today.

Unions, Rates, and other mysterious topics

Caryn Clark — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 08:58:09 GMT

Yesterday, I had a private session with my voice over coach. I told her about the new gigs I've landed lately (ok, shameless self promotion, but hey, it is my blog, right? Check out my web site www.CarynClark.net to watch the tv commercials of my latest gigs).

The conversation morphed into rates and unions. I can't wait for the day I can join SAG and AFTRA. Well, I could join AFTRA now, but I'm not going to yet. Anyway, my perception is that the unions offer so many value-added benefits, including a standard rate scale, they manage your payments (so you're not chasing down the people who don't pay you), pension and health insurance, that who wouldn't want to join the union?

Then there's Fi-Core. Interesting thing I learned about Fi-Core. It was created for the coal miners' union, way back when. Why? Because when union mines dried up, that meant that those miners would have to move, sometimes far far away, to work in another union mine. Not always easy to just pick up and move back in the day, Fi-Core was created to allow them to work in non-union mines but still be paid a fair union wage. So, Fi-Core was created because of proximity to work. In this digital age, that's not really the issue though.

Now in the world of freelance, coupled with the digital age, it's a whole different ball o' wax. So many people are taking a stab at voice over and work for much less than union scale, and many producers are willing (or my guess is, in some cases, they have to) to use such talent b/c of budgetary constraints, as well as the fact that perhaps the piece they're producing simply doesn't require a high caliber talent as the union provides.

The online voice over marketplaces have definitely played a huge role in taking freelance voice over to a different level. They've made it possible for anyone with some computer knowledge to take a stab at this career. And I think that's great! Why shouldn't someone be able to dabble, and see if this is the career for them? Hey, that's what I did.... ok, well, not exactly... I did have coaching years prior to my actually working in vo, and had coaching prior to deciding to "dabble" in vo... but the online voice over marketplaces were where I was able to get myself out there and gain some experience. I will say though, that I took it all seriously and did research, etc. before jumping in the pool. I had a demo... a one minute demo. I must admit, I do get terribly frustrated by the folks who join the online vo marketplaces, and then post questions about the most basic things they really should already know. But I digress...

So, that all said, it appears that the freelance world is getting bigger and stronger by the minute. And, what's the problem with this?

As freelance voice artists, we are not only the actor, but the CEO, Marketing VP, and CFO of our own company. We have to chase down the people who don't pay us, we need to be disciplined enough to set aside money for health insurance and retirement on our own. I suppose we can do that.

So, that leaves the question of a rate scale, and being paid fairly for our work. There is no standard or scale for freelance artists. There are folks who are willing to do a :60 radio commercial for $25. And hey, I've done similar work myself, for friends who are producers who needed a voice b/c they were in a bind. But those that make a habit of it are banking on quantity of jobs. I have to say, I don't believe it works that way.

I have a rate sheet that I use as my guideline when quoting jobs. Have I lost jobs because of it? Yup. Just did this morning, as a matter of fact. But that's ok. I'd say 90% of the time, the producers are ok with the rate I quote, even if it is above their stated budget, and pay it without even trying to negotiate with me.

So, I guess the moral of the story here is... have a rate sheet for yourself that's based on type of spot (radio; television; narration, etc.) the locale in which it will air (local; regional; national; non-broadcast; web) and the length of spot (:15; :30; :60; and for me, I have by the page). Don't sell yourself short, be confident in your talent in order to stand by your rates. While I think you should also be flexible (let's face it, we all have bills to pay), don't completely undercut the market. Focus your energy on working to gain the talent you need to be a first rate voice over artist, and you'll be paid accordingly.

Learned lots of Voice Over stuff!

Caryn Clark — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 13:08:21 GMT

This weekend, I attended the Randy Thomas and Peter Rofe' Voice Over Workshop. It was fantastic!!

I've taken a workshop with them before... about two years ago. But you know, it's always great and you always learn something new, regardless that the teachers were the same.

I really enjoyed meeting all of the attendees as well. You know, when you work in the corporate world, you have "co-workers." But in voice over, you don't really have those relationships since we all work from home. So, when you get together for things like workshops, it's like meeting your co-workers (live and in person) and sharing stories about your boss(es) around the water cooler. Everyone there was so very talented, and we all learned from each other.

I was honored to finally meet Sonny Warner, whom I've been paired with in a couple of commercials, Brian Hart from the VO-BB message board that has become my family, and Doug Turkel, also from the VO-BB and we've done a commercial together.

I love technology

Caryn Clark — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:58:08 GMT

I do love technology. If it weren't for technology, many of us wouldn't have the careers we have, or the ability to work from home from places like Fort Myers, FL!

However, I don't really like when I have technology snags. Last week I had a snag.

Had a popping/crackling sound... not constant... it would come and go, in my audio. All of the sudden, out of the blue.

I recently had my Symetrix overhauled, so it likely wasn't that. With the help of some other vo friends and their troubleshooting, we thought maybe it was my board. So I bought a new Mackie 802-VLZ3. Turns out it wasn't that... still had the problem.

So then I deduced that it must be the mic. I called Sennheiser, and I have to tell you, they are the NICEST, MOST PROFESSIONAL folks you'll ever deal with. I received personal service from a gentleman nameed David. I sent my mic back to Sennheiser, where they tried to replicate the problem. Unfortunately, they could not. However, to me the proof was that I borrowed another Sennheiser MKH416 (just like the mic I sent back) from Randy Thomas to use in the meantime, and I've not had a single issue. So it must be the mic!!! Right??!! We're mystified they couldn't replicate the issue.

However, they were so cool about it... that they are sending me a brand new mic to replace mine. How great is that?

Keeping fingers and toes crossed that all tech issues have been solved.

100+ Voice Acting Resources

Caryn Clark — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 08:33:07 GMT

Once again, Voices.com has done a smashing job in gathering a list of valuable resources for voice talent.

Somehow, my very own blog made that list!!

Here's a link to their blog post:
http://blogs.voices.com/voxdaily/2008/03/100_industry_resources_for_voice_over_talent.html

I'm certain you will find useful information in their blog!

CONTINUED... Why YOU NEED ME blog

Caryn Clark — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 08:58:46 GMT

Stephanie from Voices.com very kindly posted my blog on her Vox Daily blog a couple of days ago. Since then, there have been several comments added that I thought were really great observations, so I wanted to post a link here:

Click here to go to Why YOU NEED ME as Your Voice blog on Vox Daily.

Comments appreciated!!

The Writers' Strike is OVER - The OSCARS are a GO!

Caryn Clark — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 11:30:33 GMT

I'm glad the Writers' Strike has been resolved. Now back to our regularly scheduled programming.

Seriously, the reality shows were getting a little out of hand. It's good for everyone that this strike is settled, and that the writers' are recognized for they're worth.

That said, I'm also glad the strike is over because that means The 80th Annual Academy Awards are a GO!!! Things were hanging in the balance because of the strike. My mentor and friend, Randy Thomas, will, for a SEVENTH time, be the live voiceover announcer for the Academy Awards, along with veteran voiceover artist and past Oscar announcer Tom Kane.

Randy remains the first and only person, male or female, to have announced the Oscars, Tonys and Emmys all in a row.

She's an incredible voiceover talent.

More about the Academy Awards:
The 80th Annual Academy Awards will be held live at the Kodak Theatre on Sunday, February 24th, 2008 on ABC, live at 5pm PST/8pm EST. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 200 countries worldwide.

More about Randy:

In addition to her network assignments, Randy provides the imaging voice for numerous television and radio stations across the country. She can be heard daily across the nation and around the world, including on Entertainment Tonight and The Insider, the most watched entertainment news programs in the world, produced by CBS/Paramount Television.

Why YOU NEED ME as Your Voice

Caryn Clark — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 20:24:13 GMT

I attended a local business networking event this evening. My first one ever. It was much different than I expected.

In introducing myself to local business owners and telling them my profession, many of them responded with, "Oh, I've always wanted to do that... how can I?" or "Oh, I do the narration for my company's videos... why would I need your services?"

I can understand these responses. It APPEARS that what I do is as easy as reading a story to a child, or reading a local newspaper article aloud to your spouse.

It's not though.

Not at all.

So, why do these folks need a professional voice over for their commercial or corporate narration? Why can't they just do it themselves?

These are questions to which voice over artists need to have answers, and these answers are the basis of your marketing.

Here are some of the answers:
1. I've had years of training - voice over classes, acting classes, workshops, private coaching with some of the best voice coaches in the country. Truly. And, I've had lots of "on the job" training, performing hundreds of commercials and narrations.

I've invested in my education so that I can produce a top notch product for my clients, take their direction and make it happen, and ultimately, deliver not only the sound they want, but the sound they NEED in order for their commercial or narration to sound BELIEVABLE... and not like someone's reading off the page.

And why is this important?

2. Believability = Credibility = Comprehension of what you're selling

Whether you realize it or not, using yourself (business owner) for your business's commercial is likely not the best idea. We've all heard those folks on TV and the radio... and they sound like they're reading. Do you really comprehend something when someone's reading to you? No.

People comprehend real life. Voice over talents are trained to bring your commercial or narration to life... real life.

3. While you just might sound fabulous reading a commercial for, let's say, high end furniture, you might NOT make a commercial about the benefits of a community college, or one about why folks should visit Walt Disney World, sound believable. But I have and I do. Yet, I wouldn't necessarily be the right voice choice for a high end furniture commercial.

Point is, everyone's voice is different, and one voice is NOT suited for all types of commercials or narration.

4. I've invested thousands of dollars in my studio and equipment in order to provide the best sound possible for your audio.

So, if you're a talent reading this, step back and think of some more reasons people should hire you... I'd love to hear them.

And, if you're a business owner considering my services, the points made above should convince you that YOU NEED ME for your voice over project.

Pay Per Click for Voice Over

Caryn Clark — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 15:30:28 GMT

So, I've started playing with Google AdWords and pay per click (PPC) advertising. It is, indeed, a pretty nifty concept. I especially love the reporting function.

A couple of weeks ago, I posted an article about the 10 things to watch out for in PPC advertising. And, as I've found out, they're true. At the onset, I've found that it IS important to be as specific as possible when creating ad "phrases."

What I've found is that I've come up with LOTS of words and phrases that I think customers use to search with. Too many, in fact. But, at the moment, I'm sticking with one ad, and monitoring the popularity of each word and phrase, and as I find those that aren't working, I will delete them.

I know people for whom this type of marketing has worked splendidly. For me, it's too soon to tell. But, I'd love to hear other people's experience with this type of advertising, and how it worked/didn't work for them.

Upcoming Voice Over Workshop

Caryn Clark — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 21:20:12 GMT

Randy Thomas and Peter Rofe are going to do a one-day (all day from 9 am to 7 pm) workshop here in Fort Myers on Saturday, April 12. Here are the details:

WHO: Randy Thomas and Peter Rofe
WHAT: Workshop for pro vo actors
WHEN: Saturday, April 12 from 9 am to 7 pm
WHERE: Unity Gain Studios in Fort Myers, FL
WHY: To learn lots of cool stuff and kick your vo career into high gear!

You can email me at caryn@carynclark.net for booking info and details.

A Project of Gargantuan Proportions

Caryn Clark — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 16:17:03 GMT

My friend, Bob Souer, has been working Monday through Saturday, for hours at a time via ISDN, with Thomas Nelson Publishers. What is he working on?

He's reading The Bible.

It took him 4 1/2 months to record the Old Testament. That's 4 1/2 months of recording 6 days a week, 4 hour days, I believe. Wow.

He's predicting he will be done with the New Testament by the end of next week.

You can read about it on his blog.

I am in awe of someone who is able to complete this task. Whew!! But, there really couldn't have been a better voice choice for the project. Bob has that perfectly mature, commanding yet soothing voice. I'm certain the product will be a hit!

Tips for Pay Per Click Advertising

Caryn Clark — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:32:55 GMT

This article is reposted here. It's from the Entireweb Newsletter. I hope you find it helpful!

Mistakes Of Pay Per Click Advertising: The Terrible 10

Vigilance, micromanaging and attention to detail can help you avoid some common and costly mistakes of PPC advertising. What are those mistakes?

Here are the terrible 10 that are typical to most pay per click campaigns.

Too Many Keywords Per Ad Group
It's important to target your ad to be as relevant as possible. Don't group all your keywords into one or two ad groups. Break them out. Keep them tight. This gives you more control over ad variables so that you can be as relevant as possible.

Not Using Negative Keywords
Negative keywords reduce unwanted impressions, and more importantly, unwanted click throughs. However, with increasing priority given to "quality scores" and click through rates in the PPC engines, it's key to trim the fat from your keyword campaigns. If your company sells "widget management software" then be sure that you have keywords like "-serial" or "-free" assigned as negative keywords (unless, of course, you offer it for free in some manner). You can find good negative keywords in your log files or when you build your lists.

Weak Testing
Split-testing your ads is critical. Even the smallest of changes can boost results. In addition to testing your ad copy's "call to action" or value statements, every ad has multiple variables to test. The titles, the two lines of copy, and display url all can be optimized. If you don't have time for hands-on testing, a good professional pay per click management company can run daily split testing for you. You'd be surprised how well this can pay off.

Poor or Non-Existent Tracking
Of course, testing your ads and fine tuning your keyword lists only works well if you are tracking results. The search engines will tell you what your click-through rates are ... but you need bottom-line results. You need to know your return on investment or what your cost per action is. It's not enough to know that you spend $5,000 and get back $10,000. You might be able to spend only $3,000 and get that same $10,000.

Not Getting Keyword-Level Tracking
Proper and exact analytics or using an experienced pay per click management company is essential to get the data you need. If you have keywords that are not performing and leaking your account on a daily basis, you are throwing money away. Getting results to the keyword level allows you to adjust bids for maximum effect. If you have one keyword with a $1.34 earnings per click and another at 37 cents, this is key information that allows you to maximize profits. Lower one bid if you are above your "EPC" and raise another to eek out more profits from that sweet-spot keyword. Don't waste money on a daily basis.

Not Specific Enough Keywords
Some broad and generic keywords can certainly push a ton of traffic to your site. They may even be very successful. Often, however, they can also do just the opposite -- drain your funds with poor results. A user searching on one of these generic phrases is often doing research in an early part of the buying process. Knowing your keyword-level results and filtering out bad variations with negative keywords can help you get a true read on these generic keywords.

Not Going After Long-Tail Keywords
This follows the above item on generic keywords. Building a list and individual ads for the long-tail keywords can be a major time-sucker. It can also be profitable if the task is performed correctly. Those earnings per click will likely vary widely from a generic keyword like "mp3 player", "sony mp3 player" and "sony 2GB S610 walkman video mp3 player". One consumer is doing research, the other knows what they want and is most likely looking to purchase.

Not Separating Content and Search Networks
An easy way to get scorched on poor performing traffic or even click fraud is to not separate your search network ads from your content network ads. Chances are that if you don't know what the difference is, then they are likely not separated in your account -- and bad keywords are leaking your funds daily. You are better off to build different campaigns for your keywords on the content and search networks.

Not Attracting Local Clients Through Geo Targeting
If you draw most of your business from a local area, the big three PPC engines allow you to geo-target your keywords to that area. This will bring the local market to your doorstep on non-local keyword phrases. This can be hugely profitable.

Not Frequently Monitoring Your Accounts
Not everyone has time to run split testing on a daily basis or frequently checking your EPCs (even though you should...because it's costing you). That said, there are still a high amount of advertisers who seem to ignore their accounts for days ... or even weeks ... or (don't tell me you're doing this!) months. The big PPC search engines are increasingly cracking down on poor performing keywords, smacking advertisers with that "Inactive for Search" status for individual keywords. When this happens, you lose traffic, you lose profits. If you are investing heavily in PPC, you can't just turn your back on your account for days at a time.

The Terrible 10 of Pay Per Click Advertising is a lot to consider, but it's vital for healthy pay per click campaigns. Whether you can actively manage your PPC accounts at this level or you need to hire a pay per click management company to do it, vigilance and precision can make a huge impact on your bottom line.

About the Author: Josh Prizer is a Senior Account Executive and PPC expert for Zero Company Performance Marketing, a pay per click management company. Visit us now to learn more about how to improve your PPC advertising campaigns and performance.

Golden Globes Cancelled!!!

Caryn Clark — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:33:31 GMT

Well, I guess this is the answer to the question I posted in my last blog entry. How will the show go on without actors present?

It won't.

Turns out the recipients will be announced during an hour-long press conference that will be covered live by NBC News beginning at 6:00 pm PST on January 13. The Awards telecast and champagne dinner has been cancelled.

Hot off the blog press at Voice Over Times:

The Writers Guild of America claims it’s first casualty.

The Huffington Post reports that sources say that NBC will not be televising the Golden Globes as planned on January 13th. Even if it were held untelevised, will be canceled.

“And the Hollywood Foreign Press Association instead will merely make an announcement of the winners. I’ve not yet received any official confirmation of any of this. But insiders tell me that NBC Universal topper Jeff Zucker and the Hollywood Foreign Press Association which bestows the Golden Globes made the decision together.”

Now, we wait for the official confirmation via the newswire.

No Actors at the Golden Globes This Year!

Caryn Clark — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:34:09 GMT

This article is reposted here and is originally from The VoiceOver Times:

The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) officially announced Friday that none of its members would appear at the Golden Globes.

SAG released the following statement about their decision:

“After considerable outreach to Golden Globe actor nominees and their representatives over the past several weeks, there appears to be unanimous agreement that these actors will not cross WGA picket lines to appear on the Golden Globe Awards as acceptors or presenters. We applaud our members for this remarkable show of solidarity for striking Writers Guild of America writers.

“We have also been asked about our position regarding network talk shows. We urge our members to appear on the two programs that have independent agreements with the WGA, The Late Show with David Letterman and Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. However, actors who are asked to appear on the struck network talk shows will have to cross WGA picket lines, creating the same situation that has led to the consensus among actors to skip the Golden Globes.

“As I have said since this strike began on November 5th, we must stand united with our brothers and sisters at the WGA.”

NBC announced on Friday that the Golden Globes telecast is scheduled to go on regardless next Sunday.
###

My thoughts? I think it's just what they should do. And, I hope the WGA strike comes to an end soon. For everyone's sake.

But, how will THIS show go on [without actors]??

The Year in Review

Caryn Clark — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:34:49 GMT

As is custom when owning your own business, the year-end means you review your business for the year, and do some heavy duty analysis. Which, should be easy to accomplish since you likely have to get your numbers ready for your tax professional.

Take a look at the following:

- where does the majority of your business come from? You can break it out by agents, word of mouth, online vo marketplaces... you get the idea.

- how much are you spending on equipment? Coaching? Marketing? Are these dollar amounts proportional to the amount of business you bring in because of them?

- probably most importantly, figure out where you should focus your time and money in order to best build your business?

You also might want to consider taking some time to sit down, and actually write a business plan. What are your goals? Then, devise strategies you can implement to get to those goals.

Best of luck to each of you in the new year! It's going to be a great 2008!!!

The Voicey Award Nominations are open!!

Caryn Clark — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:35:20 GMT

The Voicey Award nominations are now open! Similar to awards such as the Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, honoring actors and filmmakers, the Voicey Awards recognize voice actors for their contributions and efforts over the year in the voice-over industry.

Last year, Voices.com hosted the First Annual Voicey Awards. I was very, very honored to be one of five finalists in not one, but two categories - Best New Voice and Best Personal Branding.

I'd be honored if anyone reading this blog would like to nominate me for Best New Voice, Best Female Voice, or Best Personal Branding. Please email me at caryn@carynclark.net if you have any questions or need assistance with the nominating process.

Thank you!!

Open Casting Call for VO for NBC Nightly News

Caryn Clark — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:35:48 GMT

As you might know, Michael Douglas recently became the new voice of the NBC Nightly News. Unfortunately, his acting talent does not parlay to his voice over skills.

My friend and fellow voice over talent, Peter O'Connell, has put out an open casting call on his blog for "serious takers only" to audition for the part. Once all the auditions are in, he's going to send them to NBC.

If nothing else, maybe Michael Douglas will want some coaching from Peter.

Florida Orange Juice is going to taste so much sweeter...

Caryn Clark — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:36:14 GMT

... now that Tom Selleck is the voice for Florida Orange Juice. I'm looking forward to hearing these commercials in January. I've always been a huge fan of his, from way back to the Magnum P.I. days. I'll even watch the re-runs if I catch them.

Here's the article courtesy of The VoiceOver Times and The Ledger of Lakeland, FL.

Remember Magnum P.I.?

Tom Selleck is back in a voice over role with a $90,000 contract as spokesman for Florida orange juice in new 15- and 30-second spots scheduled to air in January.

The Florida Department of Citrus hopes its new OJ ads will have a “magnum” impact of sales.

The Florida Citrus Commission, the department’s governing body, approved the new ads Wednesday.

Selleck’s voice-over narration takes center stage as viewers watch a cascade of orange juice going from pitcher to glass.

“Food scientists have spent years with their beakers and flasks and chemistry sets, trying to come up with something as good for you as Florida orange juice,” says Selleck’s deep baritone. “But they’ve never come close. Start your day with almost 25 percent of your daily recommended fruit and vegetable servings in one ounce glass.”

To close the commercial, Selleck suggests, “It’s a miracle in every way. Florida orange juice. Healthy. Pure and simple.”

The second ad shows the same images but touts orange juice as “The original power beverage that, during cold and flu season, gives your immune system many of the vitamins and minerals it needs.”

Beginning Dec. 30, both 30-second spots will run frequently on national broadcast and cable stations the first 11 weeks, she said. Then the department will reduce the frequency of those ads and use similar 15-second spots for the rest of the year.

Selleck got $90,000 for the voice-over work and has made an oral commitment to do the same for next year’s Florida orange juice ads.

Source: The Ledger

Voice over for the Fuji Z10fd Digital Camera

Caryn Clark — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:36:39 GMT

I recently did a voice over narration for the very cool Fuji Z10fd Digital Camera. You can click here to view it. (After you get to the site, go to "Quick Links" on the right middle of the page, then to "Video Demo."

The camera is touted to be "Cutting Edge with a Youthful Style." It really is a nifty piece of machinery!!!

Enjoy!

Caryn Clark... The Hip Chick Voice!

How do you stay well?

Caryn Clark — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:37:03 GMT

Tis the season for colds and flu.

How do you stay well?

I'm proud to say (as I knock on wood) that I've not been ill since March of this year. Well, ok, I had a slight cold the first week in October, after traveling. But it only lasted 6 1/2 days, as compared to the typical 2-3 weeks my colds last.

That's NINE entire months! And, that's unusual for me. In 2006, I was ill with a cold about every eight weeks or so, due to traveling, etc. I'm still traveling, around lots of people, including friends with kids that bring home from school every kind of germ known to man.

My typical method of prevention was Airborne. However, in my case, if I didn't take it from the very onset (or prior), and then every three hours, it wasn't a failsafe preventative measure. And, by the way, I notice that the package now states you should not ingest it more than 5 times a day or so. Hmmm...

So, what did I change?

My dear friend and fellow voice over actress Randy Thomas turned me on to essential oils. Ok, ok... I know it sounds crazy. Really, I do.

But, I have to say, the essential oil called Thieves is incredible stuff. I buy it through Young Living, but I think you can buy it at health food stores and such places, although I think those might be knock offs.

Thieves "was created based on research about four thieves in France who covered themselves with cloves, rosemary, and other aromatics while robbing plague victims. This proprietary essential oil blend was university tested for its cleansing abilities. It is highly effective in supporting the immune system and good health."

It's a combination of the essential oils of clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary.

When I'm feeling the onset... even just a tingle in my throat... of sickness, or if I'm around or have been around a lot of people, I put a couple of drops on my tongue and chase it with water. It really, really works!!!! (Warning: be prepared... it's hot, and you may not like the taste. I happen to like the taste and the smell, but many people do not.)

You can also buy a diffuser and diffuse the oil in your home. Just be sure to clean out your diffuser right away... I clogged mine b/c Thieves is a kind of a thick oil.

I also like to wear it on my pulse points in the fall/winter, because I like the way it smells. It's got that cinnamon scent that's great during the colder months.

They also have mouthwash, cleaning products, and all kinds of other things made with Thieves. I have the mouthwash courtesy of Randy... good stuff. My husband, on the other hand, nearly gagged when he used it. And he's a heavy duty Listerine user - which makes me gag.

So, that's what I do to keep from getting sick. So far, so good!!

Also, I like other oils just for aromatherapy purposes. I like Lemongrass, and I have one called "Creative Juice" which is a combo of bergamot, cardamom, and lemon oils. Love it.