If you need to translate a video, there are at least four ways to do it: localisation, voice-over, dubbing, and subtitles. Let’s look at the specifics, advantages, and disadvantages of each option. These are among the most common video translation services used by companies targeting international markets.
Video Localisation
This method is commonly used by professional film production companies such as Netflix and HBO to ensure content resonates fully with international audiences. (You can read more about Netflix localisation best practices here).Localisation is the most comprehensive type of video translation. During localisation, changes are made to both the audio (translation of voice-over text, re-recording of narration, new music and background sound editing) and the video (replacement of on-screen text, adjusting episode lengths to fit the new audio). This is where human translation services show their full strength, especially when nuance and cultural context are essential.
Voice-over or Dubbing a Video Translation
Voice-over or dubbing are simplified versions of video localisation, involving changes to the audio only. These options can be implemented without the original source files and require less time and budget compared to full localisation. Companies offering technical translation services often provide these types of audio adaptations for training videos and software tutorials.
Creating Subtitles From Our Video Translation Services
Subtitles are generally suitable for simpler projects or limited budgets. Usually, only the narrator’s speech is translated when creating subtitles.
Here’s what you need to make subtitles:
- Transcribe the video text. In other words, turn the spoken content into written text. A video subtitle translator can assist in ensuring the transcription is accurate and timed appropriately.
- Translate the voice-over script. Sometimes the translation needs to be shortened slightly so viewers can physically manage to read the text accompanying the scene. A professional video translator will ensure clarity without losing meaning.
- Synchronise the translation with the video. To do this, the translation is split into fragments of 5–15 words; each fragment is assigned a timecode (the appearance and disappearance time of the phrase). Synchronisation ensures that each subtitle line matches either the native voice-over or the corresponding action on screen. Many of the best translation services offer advanced subtitle timing tools for this purpose. Finished subtitles are best saved as a separate file (e.g., .srt or .txt), not burned into the video.
Need help making your video clear and engaging for global audiences?
At Knockhundred Translations, we offer expert video translation services tailored to your needs — whether you require full localisation, dubbing, or subtitles. Get in touch today to make your content speak the world’s languages with clarity and confidence.
You can read more about all our audiovisual language services here.
