How to… subtitle

Adding subtitles to a video will make it accessible to the 9 million adults within the UK who have a hearing loss. However, it would not be the best method of reaching BSL users (read our service page to find out more about why this is so).

We use the latest, industry standard software for our subtitles and staff who are experienced within the world of broadcast. Once they’ve mastered the 1,000 page guidelines on subtitles they are ready to work with us.

Subtitling is not as easy as it seems.  For example did you know that if a subtitle appears and disappears too quickly it can trigger Epilepsy sufferers to become unwell? And don’t even get us started on reading speeds(!)  Fortunately we’ll take care of all of that side of things for you.

We’ll consult with you to discuss the appearance of the subtitles – for example do you want them to be on the screen at all times? This is what is known as ‘Burnt in’ or ‘Open' subtitles.  Or do you want them to only appear when selected as part of a menu system -'Closed' subtitles?  

What you do:

1. Send us your video and transcript (a word doc is best)
2. Approve the upload we send you
3. Decide and let us know how you want your subtitles to be displayed
4. Receive the new master video or subtitle file depending on your answer to point 3!

What we do:

1. Receive your assets
2. Liaise with you regarding the look of your subtitles
3. Let our trained subtitlers do what they do best!
4. Check the file
5. Upload an approval version
6. Deliver your final approved version.