We are always watching videos to see different techniques that different Vents have. One major area that most Vents need improvement on, is in the area of their own facial expressions when talking to their own character.
Specifically what I am talking about is that so many Vents let their own expressions just turn deadpan when the puppet is talking.
What you need to concentrate on is that when the puppet is talking, you need to practice letting your face show the correct emotion for what is happening.
This can range from surprise, shock, anger, disappointment, humor, sadness and many other emotions.
What makes this hard is that you are already paying intense attention to not moving your lips when the puppet is talking. This IS also very important, but that part is fundamental as everyone judges your skills based on not moving your lips.
What will separate you from just being “good” and being “great” is your ability to control your lip movement while at the same time letting the rest of your face communicate other messages to the audience.
I know that we have talked a lot about Darci Lynne in recent weeks, but this is one area that she really shines in. When one of her characters does something and is talking, watch her face.
She is extremely good at showing facial emotion. Take a few minutes and watch a few of her videos. Now get your puppet and a mirror and practice Practice PRACTICE. This is the only way you will really get good at this, but it will make you stand out from the average performer.
We will talk again next week,
Steve & JET
When watching vents on my computer, I notice that many of them never take their eyes off the camera that’s recording them. I think that there has to be a disconnect between the camera and the vent, and certainly between the vent and puppet. Otherwise the illusion is lost.