Subtitles are an essential component of any audiovisual content that we consume. They enable us to clearly understand the dialogue and provide access to content for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing. In addition, subtitles enhance the viewing experience by ensuring viewers never miss an important moment or dialogue.
If you're a content creator, whether for films or video content, following these best practices and guidelines for subtitles will ensure that your content is accessible to the broadest audience possible.
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Formatting
The first thing to consider while working with subtitles is formatting. Ensure your subtitles are easy to read and follow using a clear and legible font. Arial, Calibri, and Verdana are popular font choices for subtitles.
Subtitles should also be timed correctly, appearing on screen for sufficient time so viewers can read them comfortably. A good rule of thumb is to keep the subtitle on screen for two to six seconds, depending on the dialogue length.
In addition, subtitles should have enough contrast with the background to make them easy to read. Usually, white text with a black or dark background works well, but be mindful of genre, tone, and subject matter when selecting colors.
2.Accuracy
Subtitles are vital when it comes to conveying accurate dialogue. The key is to transcribe the dialogue as accurately as possible while keeping the conversation's flow and pace in mind. In addition, subtitles should be a true reflection of what is being said and convey the tone and meaning of the dialogue.
Always include a translation or explanation if your content has specialist terms, slang or cultural references. Subtitles are not just for providing accessibility but also for maintaining clarity and accuracy.
3. Consistency
Consistency is crucial when it comes to subtitles. The font, the text size, and the position of the subtitles should be consistent throughout the content. This makes it easier for viewers to follow along and ensures a polished and professional look.
4. Placement
The placement of subtitles on the screen can significantly impact the viewing experience. Subtitles should not cover essential information, such as on-screen text, text overlays or character expressions. Instead, they should be placed in the black space at the bottom of the screen.
5. Grammar and Punctuation
Subtitles are not designed to be a direct transcription of dialogue. However, punctuation, grammar and syntax are crucial elements of language and should be accurately represented in subtitles. This can impact the delivery or tone of an exchange in a scene. Therefore, ensure that complete sentences are used wherever possible and punctuation is included.
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