Audio Description: Beginner's Guide 2024

Audio description (AD) makes visual content accessible to blind and low-vision viewers. Here's what you need to know:

• AD narrates key visual elements in videos, TV shows, movies, and live events

• It's crucial for visually impaired viewers but benefits everyone

• Three main types: standard, extended, and real-time

• Required by law in many countries

Key points:

• Describes actions, appearances, scene changes, and on-screen text

• Fits descriptions between dialogue and important sounds

• Uses clear, concise language focused on essential visuals

• Becoming more common on streaming platforms and TV networks

Creating effective AD:

• Write simple, descriptive scripts

• Use professional voice actors

• Sync narration with video content

• Consider AI tools for faster production

AD opens up visual media to millions. As technology advances, expect more personalized and efficient audio descriptions across all types of content.

Quick Comparison:

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Basics of audio description

Audio description (AD) isn't just narration. It's a bridge to visual content for those who can't see it. Let's explore how AD works.

Goals and advantages

AD's main goal? Make visual media accessible to everyone. Here's how:

• Fills visual gaps between dialogue

• Describes key visual elements

• Provides context for sounds and music

But AD isn't just for the visually impaired. It helps:

• People with cognitive disabilities

• Language learners

• Multitaskers

Who uses audio description

AD serves more than just the visually impaired:

Different audio description types

Three main types of AD:

1. Standard AD

Short narrations in dialogue pauses. Used for most TV shows and movies. Netflix uses this for many originals.

2. Extended AD

Pauses content for longer descriptions. Good for complex visuals or minimal dialogue breaks. Often used in education or art films.

3. Real-time AD

Live commentary for events, theater, sports, and live TV. Needs skilled describers who react quickly.

Each type fits different content and audience needs. An action movie might use standard AD, while a nature documentary could use extended AD.

AD opens visual worlds to those who can't see them. As tech advances, expect AD to become more sophisticated and widespread.

History and current state

Audio description (AD) has evolved significantly since its inception. Here's a quick look at its journey:

Early days of audio description

AD's roots stretch back to the early 1900s:

• 1910s: UK's Lady Eleanor Waterlow described films to blind individuals

• 1929: US hosted a special showing of "Bulldog Drummond" with live narration

• 1940s: Spain's Gerardo Esteban narrated films on national radio

The 1970s brought major developments:

• Gregory Frazier developed AD concepts in his master's thesis

• Margaret and Cody Pfanstiehl launched the first AD program for live theatre in 1981

Audio description in 2024

AD has become mainstream:

• TV networks and streaming platforms offer AD for many programs

• Live events now include AD

• FCC requires major networks to provide 50 hours of described programming per quarter

New tools and methods

Tech has transformed AD:

• Digital tools streamline creation and addition

• AI assists in generating descriptions

• Some platforms allow viewers to customize their AD experience

AD has grown from a niche service to a crucial accessibility feature. As technology advances, AD is set to become even more prevalent and user-friendly.

Laws and industry rules

Audio description (AD) isn't optional - it's often the law. Here's what you need to know about AD regulations in the US:

Key laws

1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA requires equal access for people with disabilities. This means:

• Theaters must provide AD for digital movies when asked

• Government websites and apps must follow WCAG 2.1 Level AA guidelines, including AD for pre-recorded videos

2. 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA)

The CVAA focuses on digital media accessibility:

• Major TV networks must air 87.5 hours of audio-described content per quarter

• 50 hours during prime time or kids' shows

• 37.5 hours between 6 AM and midnight

3. Rehabilitation Act (Sections 504 and 508)

These sections make federal agencies provide accessible tech:

• AD required for all federal agency multimedia

• Must comply with WCAG 2.0 Level A and AA standards

Industry guidelines

Beyond laws, there are guidelines for quality AD:

1. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

WCAG 2.0 Level AA is the go-to standard. It requires:

• AD for all pre-recorded video content

• Clear, concise descriptions that sync with the video

2. FCC Quality Standards

The FCC emphasizes:

• Accurate visual descriptions

• Focus on essential content

• Consistent style

• Appropriate for the content and audience

3. Best Practices

Pros recommend:

• Clear, concise scripts

• Professional voice actors

• Proper timing and sync with video

Staying up-to-date on these rules is crucial for anyone creating or sharing content. It's not just about following the law - it's about making sure everyone can enjoy your work.

Making audio descriptions

Here's how to create audio descriptions that work:

Writing tips

When writing your script:

• Focus on what's important for the story

• Use present tense and active voice

• Keep it short and sweet

• Don't add your own opinions

• Use inclusive language

Instead of "The man looks angry", try "His brow furrows and his jaw clenches."

Voice and narration

Picking the right voice matters:

• Go for clear and engaging

• Match the tone to the content

• Keep it professional, but conversational

Timing and sync

Get the timing right:

• Add descriptions when there's a natural pause

• Use time-coding to sync it up

• Make descriptions fit the gaps

Adding audio descriptions to content

Audio descriptions make your content accessible. Here's how to do it:

Steps to add audio description

1. Write the script

Write a clear script describing key visuals without overlapping dialogue.

2. Record the narration

Use good equipment to record. Choose a voice matching your content's tone.

3. Edit and sync

Time descriptions to fit pauses in the main audio.

4. Integrate with the video

Add the description track or create a separate version with descriptions.

Software for audio description

Some helpful tools:

Using audio description on platforms

YouTube: No built-in feature, but you can:

• Upload a separate video with descriptions

• Use plugins like 3Play Media for toggling

Streaming services: Many support description tracks. Sephora lets users switch between "main" and "descriptive" audio.

TV broadcasts: The CVAA requires audio description for TV, making it common on major networks.

Audio description isn't just about rules—it's about inclusion. Robin Sitten from Perkins School for the Blind says:

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Checking audio description quality

Quality audio descriptions are key for accessibility. Here's how to measure their effectiveness and make them better:

Measuring effectiveness

To check if your audio descriptions are good:

1. Do you need to describe it?

2. Did you cover all the important stuff?

3. What do blind or low-vision users think?

Common mistakes to avoid

1. Don't overdo it with details.

2. Don't spoil the plot.

3. Don't talk over important sounds.

4. Keep it simple - no fancy words.

Getting and using feedback

1. Ask blind and low-vision users what they think.

2. Use surveys to get specific feedback.

3. See how often people use the audio descriptions.

Use what you learn to:

• Fix your scripts

• Get the timing right

• Pick better voice actors

Audio description for different media

Audio description (AD) makes various media types more accessible. Here's how it works in different contexts:

Movies and TV shows

AD for films and TV fills quiet moments with brief descriptions of what's happening on screen. Netflix and Disney+ now offer AD tracks for many titles.

Key points:

• Timing: Descriptions fit between dialogue and important sounds

• Content: Focus on essential visuals without spoiling the plot

• Delivery: Often recorded by voice actors after production

Live events

Real-time AD for live performances is trickier:

• Wireless headsets let describers talk to listeners

• Describers get the same info as TV commentators

• AD must adapt to unexpected changes

NBC has used live AD for big events like the Olympics and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Learning materials

AD in education helps everyone access information:

The Described and Captioned Media Program (DCMP) uses AD in their meetings, showing how to make workplaces more accessible.

VR and AR content

Making virtual and augmented reality accessible is a new challenge:

• Spatial audio helps users locate objects

• Let users adjust settings like contrast and color

• Use sound and touch feedback for interactions

Oculus has created guidelines (VRCs) to help designers make VR more accessible.

As tech changes, so must AD. By thinking about accessibility from the start, we can make media more inclusive for everyone.

What's next for audio description

Audio description (AD) is changing fast. New tech is making it quicker and cheaper to create AD.

AI-powered tools

Audible Sight is a new AI tool that can make AD for videos in minutes. Here's how it works:

1. Analyzes video content

2. Creates text descriptions

3. Uses a computer voice to read them

Ken Rybarczk, CEO of Audible Sight, Inc., says:

This tech aims for 95% accuracy in real-time, without needing special skills.

Other AI tools are changing AD too:

These tools help more people make AD, even if they're not tech experts.

What's coming next

1. More languages

Jehovah's Witnesses now offer AD in over 100 languages. This trend is likely to continue.

2. Better training

The Audio-Description Learning Network (ADLN) is improving how describers are trained. They get feedback from blind users to make their AD better.

3. Diverse voices

Think Outside the Vox is training describers from different backgrounds. This helps make AD more inclusive.

4. User involvement

Blind consultant Colleen Connor believes users should be involved in AD quality control:

5. Live AD

NBC has used live AD for big events like the Olympics and Macy's Thanksgiving Parade. This shows how AD can work for live content too.

As tech gets better, AD might become as common as closed captions. This will make more content accessible to everyone.

Problems and solutions

AD is great, but it's not without its hiccups. Let's dive into some common issues and how to fix them.

Technical troubles

Getting AD to work right can be a pain. Here's what goes wrong and how to fix it:

Broken devices: Ever tried to watch a movie with a faulty AD headset? It's frustrating. One "Dune" fan had to try multiple devices before finding one that worked.

Fix: Theaters need to step up their game. Test and maintain equipment regularly. And if you're stuck with a dud, speak up! Ask for a working device or your money back.

Old tech: Many cinemas still use ancient infrared headphones for AD. They're about as reliable as a chocolate teapot.

Fix: Time for an upgrade. One smart user suggested:

Pleasing everyone

AD users aren't all the same. Balancing different needs is tricky:

Language level: Some folks struggle with fancy words, others want all the details.

Fix: Keep it simple. Use clear language that most people get. Ditch the jargon.

How much to say: Too much info? Overwhelming. Too little? Confusing.

Fix: Find the sweet spot. Focus on the visual stuff that really matters to the story.

Fitting it all in

Squeezing AD into existing content without messing it up is an art:

Timing is everything: Describers have to sneak AD in between dialogue. It's like playing verbal Tetris.

Fix: Plan ahead. Script carefully. When time's tight, stick to the most important visuals.

Live events: Real-time AD is a whole other ball game.

Fix: Train describers to think fast and speak concisely. Have scripts ready for the predictable parts of live shows.

Audio description resources

Want to up your audio description game? Here's where to start:

Training programs

Three solid options to learn AD:

1. Audio Description Institute (ADI)Dr. Joel Snyder's virtual program covers AD history, fundamentals, and language skills. Next session: September 9-13, 2024.

2. Arts Access Audio Description Training4-day online course on AD basics, blind culture, and various AD settings. Cost: $450-$550.

3. Audio Description Basics by Bonnie Barlow4-week Zoom course on AD for different media, project creation, and networking. Cost: $250 (10 participants max).

Professional groups

Connect with other AD pros:

• Audio Description Association (ADA)

• American Council of the Blind's Audio Description Project

• Described and Captioned Media Program (DCMP)

These offer resources, job boards, and networking.

Tools and services

Tech to boost your AD work:

AI tools can help, but human expertise is key for top-notch audio description.

Conclusion

Audio description (AD) is changing how we make visual content accessible. Here's what you need to know:

• AD narrates key visual elements in videos and live events

• It's crucial for visually impaired viewers but helps everyone

• There are three types: standard, extended, and real-time

• AI and tech are shaping AD's future

AD isn't optional—it's essential for inclusive media:

• Over 7 million Americans have vision loss

• Many countries require AD by law

• 30% of people learn best through audio

AD opens doors. Karina uses it to enjoy streaming movies. Jamal attends live theater with AD headsets.

The future of AD looks promising. AI-powered solutions and real-time applications are on the horizon, moving us towards more efficient, personalized descriptions.

FAQs

What are the guidelines for audio describers?

Audio describers need to keep it simple. Here's what to do:

• Write clearly

• Use descriptive language

• Make sentences easy to understand

• Use full sentences (except for naming characters)

Netflix's Audio Description Style Guide puts it this way:

What is basic audio description?

Audio description (AD) is an extra audio track that explains what's happening on screen. It's for blind and low-vision viewers who can't see the action. AD covers:

• What people are doing

• Important visual details

• Who's talking

• Any text on screen

AD fills in the gaps between dialogue. It assumes the viewer can't see anything.

Here's an example from Disney's The Lion King:

This narration plays during "The Circle of Life", helping blind viewers picture the scene.

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