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:
Type | Use Case | Timing |
---|---|---|
Standard AD | Most TV shows and movies | Short descriptions in dialogue pauses |
Extended AD | Complex visuals, educational content | Pauses content for longer descriptions |
Real-time AD | Live events, sports, theater | Live commentary reacting to action |
Related video from YouTube
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:
User Group | Benefit |
---|---|
Blind individuals | Full access to visual content |
Low vision | Supplements partial sight |
Elderly | Enjoy media without strain |
ADHD | Better focus on visual content |
Autism spectrum | Easier visual processing |
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
Law/Guideline | Key Requirement |
---|---|
ADA | AD for movies, websites, apps |
CVAA | 87.5 hours of AD per quarter on major TV networks |
Rehabilitation Act | AD for all federal agency multimedia |
WCAG 2.0 Level AA | AD for all pre-recorded 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
Aspect | Do This |
---|---|
Placement | Use natural pauses |
Volume | Match the main audio |
Length | Keep it short |
Overlap | Don't talk over important sounds |
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:
Software | Features | Best for |
---|---|---|
3Play Plugin | Toggle descriptions, adjust volume | YouTube videos |
Apple's Rescribe | AI script optimization | Efficient workflow |
Garageband | Free recording and editing | DIY creators |
Ableton | Pro-grade audio production | High-quality output |
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:
Do you need to describe it?
Did you cover all the important stuff?
What do blind or low-vision users think?
Check This | Ask Yourself |
---|---|
Accuracy | Does it match the screen? |
Timing | Is it in sync? |
Clarity | Is it easy to get? |
Objectivity | Is it neutral? |
Common mistakes to avoid
Don't overdo it with details.
Don't spoil the plot.
Don't talk over important sounds.
Keep it simple - no fancy words.
Getting and using feedback
Ask blind and low-vision users what they think.
Use surveys to get specific feedback.
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:
What to do | How to do it |
---|---|
Describe slides | Pause to explain visuals or read text |
Cover bullet points | Read each point before explaining |
Provide handouts | Offer large-print versions |
Explain visual aids | Describe charts, graphs, and diagrams |
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:
Analyzes video content
Creates text descriptions
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:
AI Tool | What it does |
---|---|
Sibylia | Makes AD for videos |
Dubverse.ai | Creates subtitles and voiceovers |
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.
Problem | Fix |
---|---|
Broken AD devices | Test often, fix fast |
Old tech | Go digital with streaming |
Different user needs | Keep it simple, focus on key visuals |
Tight timing | Plan well, prioritize |
Live event chaos | Train for speed, prep scripts |
Audio description resources
Want to up your audio description game? Here's where to start:
Training programs
Three solid options to learn AD:
Audio Description Institute (ADI)Dr. Joel Snyder's virtual program covers AD history, fundamentals, and language skills. Next session: September 9-13, 2024.
Arts Access Audio Description Training4-day online course on AD basics, blind culture, and various AD settings. Cost: $450-$550.
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:
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:
Tool | Features | Pricing |
---|---|---|
Sibylia | AI-powered AD generation | Contact for quote |
Dubverse.ai | AI voiceovers, subtitles | From $15/month |
3Play Media | Professional AD services | $7-$11 per minute |
Closed Caption Creator | AD creation software | Free 7-day trial |
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.
AD Benefits | For Creators | For Viewers |
---|---|---|
Reach | Wider audience | More content access |
Engagement | Higher retention | Better understanding |
Legal | Law compliance | Equal media access |
Innovation | New possibilities | Enhanced experience |
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.