How can you ensure accurate and effective audio descriptions for video accessibility?

1 Understand the purpose and audience

Before you start writing audio descriptions, you need to understand the purpose and audience of your video. What is the main message or goal of your video? Who are you trying to reach and inform? How will audio descriptions help them understand and enjoy your video? These questions will help you determine the tone, style, and level of detail of your audio descriptions. For example, if your video is educational, you might want to use more formal and descriptive language, while if your video is entertaining, you might want to use more casual and expressive language.

2 Choose the right format and timing

There are two main formats of audio descriptions: standard and extended. Standard audio descriptions are inserted into the natural pauses of the video's original audio, such as between dialogues, music, or sound effects. Extended audio descriptions are added when the video is paused or slowed down to create more space for the narration. The format you choose depends on the amount and complexity of the visual information, the pace and flow of the video, and the preferences of your audience. You also need to consider the timing and duration of your audio descriptions, making sure they are synchronized with the video and do not interfere with the original audio or distract from the video's content.

3 Write clear and concise scripts

The next step is to write the scripts for your audio descriptions. You should use clear and concise language, avoiding jargon, slang, or ambiguous terms. You should also use active voice, present tense, and descriptive verbs, avoiding unnecessary adjectives, adverbs, or opinions. You should focus on the most relevant and important visual elements, such as characters, settings, actions, emotions, and text. You should avoid repeating or contradicting the original audio, or describing obvious or irrelevant details. You should also avoid interpreting or explaining the video's meaning or intention, unless it is explicitly stated or requested by the video's creator.

4 Record high-quality audio

Once you have written your scripts, you need to record your audio descriptions. You should use a professional microphone, a quiet and soundproof environment, and a good recording software. You should also use a clear and natural voice, with appropriate volume, speed, pitch, and intonation. You should avoid background noise, breathing sounds, or vocal pauses. You should also proofread and rehearse your scripts before recording, and listen to your recordings carefully for any errors or inconsistencies. You should also test your recordings with different devices and platforms, to ensure they are compatible and audible.

6 Test and evaluate your audio descriptions

The last step is to test and evaluate your audio descriptions, to ensure they are accurate and effective. You should ask for feedback from your target audience, as well as experts and professionals in the field of video accessibility. You should also use tools and guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), the Described and Captioned Media Program (DCMP), or the Audio Description Project (ADP), to check the quality and compliance of your audio descriptions. You should also review and revise your audio descriptions, based on the feedback and recommendations you receive.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?