How to Translate Subtitles: A Pro’s Guide

Be it document translation, video translation or in-person interpreting, translation can be a tricky business in the best of times. In an increasingly content driven online world, subtitle translation can open up your business to a global market, or your message to a global audience… if you get it right. When it comes to translating subtitles, there are a number of things to consider in order to get the best out of your onscreen captions and to help, rather than hinder your online reputation. Here’s our key tips below on how to translate subtitles.

Subtitle first, translate later

It’s a rookie mistake when translating subtitles to think that the best method is to translate a basic script and then subtitle using that text. Subtitles should naturally run in sync with your audio and often, the structure of different languages needs to be tailored for the best fit. 

know what text to translate

This is a tricky area. Closed captions that match your video source language should be as verbatim as possible but this isn’t always the case with subtitle translation. Different languages typically run with more or less characters or words than others. Translating English almost verbatim can lead to reading speeds running too fast to be readable, especially with languages like German. It’s no good including everything that’s said if it means viewers don’t have time to read it! So, be sure to consider reading speeds when working with translating subtitles and tailor timings as and when needed. 

consider all avenues

Video is a visual medium. While subtitles typically include all dialogue and closed captions include all dialogue and audio descriptions required, when translating, you may need to go that one step further. Speaker title cards that display with names and job titles should be translated where possible, along with video chapter titles and/or text cards with information that often come just before the credits. Missing out these translation requirements can leave foreign viewers highly frustrated.

shop around

The video translation and subtitle translation industry is huge and it can be tempting to go with the first translation company you find. However, there are a number of factors to consider when choosing your subtitling and translation company.

The cheapest company may be tempting but there can be a huge difference between human and machine translation, so be sure to ask questions on the translation process. Similarly, going with the most expensive translation company does not always ensure the best results and inflated costs can sometimes be more due to a company’s reputation or brand rather than their quality. 

It’s always worth looking at reviews of your chosen company to see what other customers and clients’ experiences have been. Similarly, ask around and see if your colleagues have any recommendations. It’s also a good idea to give the company a call to check out their customer service skills and technical knowledge. Especially if you’re working regularly with subtitling your videos, this could be an ongoing working relationship so it’s worth putting in the time and getting a fully advised service.

So there you have it, if you have a feature film or social media video which you would like subtitle translations for then why not look at the options below and choose the right option for you.