Subtitling
Subtitling is the process by which subtitling artistes transcribe and simultaneously translate audio texts from a video clip into a different language. The conversion (translation) from one language to another In the process of subtitling, the audio text is converted to a different language while transcribing.
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The process of subtitling consists of the following phases:
- Spotting
- Translation
- Correction
- Simulation
Spotting
The process of defining the in and out times of individual subtitles so that they are synchronized with the audio, and adhere to the minimum and maximum duration times, taking the shot changes into consideration.
Translation
Translating from the source language, localizing and adapting it while accommodating the characters permitted according to the criteria.
Correction
sentence structure, comprehension and overall flow of dialogue. The text must be a natural text, which flows with the same punctuation, spelling rules and language conventions. The subtitles must be split so that they the viewers can easily understand them. Above all, they must not distract the viewer. Some of the basic principle criteria are: punctuation, line breaks, hyphens, ellipsis and italics
Simulation
After spotting, translation and correction, the film must be reviewed in a simulation session: a screening with the subtitles on the video screen just as they will appear on the final product. Modifications of text and timing can be made during the simulation.
In subtitling, it’s a given, but you’d be surprised at how easy it is for typos to sneak into the most diligent subtitle’s work. After editing for grammar and style, it’s really worth doing a pass to make sure the facts, figures and names in a subtitle file match up with what’s in the primary source. Your credibility will thank you.