Subtitling is an essential skill for translators and linguists, requiring precision and creativity to convey meaning within time and space constraints. As you translate and transcribe content, here are some guidelines and tips to ensure your subtitles are effective and viewer-friendly:
General Information and Best Practices
Subtitling is a Unique Skill Set
– Linguists must accurately convey meaning, despite time and space constraints.
– Subtitles should be easy to read and follow the flow of the original dialogue.
Line Length and Breaks
– When a subtitle exceeds 42 characters, break it into two lines.
– Never use more than two lines per subtitle.
– Keep broken lines as close in length as possible and maintain ‘linguistic wholes’ together.
Reading Speed
– Keep the subtitle reading speed at a maximum of 21 characters per second.
– Compress subtitles over 21 characters per second, preserving as much meaning as possible.
Font and Style
– Use a simple sans-serif font in white or black, avoiding fancy or flamboyant styles.
– Ensure proper punctuation and grammar to enhance comprehension.
– Use speaker IDs and brackets to indicate off-screen sounds or actions.
Subtitling DOs
Keep It Concise:
– Use simple language and keep subtitles short.
– Sometimes you may need to paraphrase creatively to fit the text within the available space.
Synchronize with Audio:
– Ensure subtitles match the audio to avoid frustrating the viewer.
Proper Punctuation and Grammar:
– Use correct punctuation and grammar. Consult a language expert if needed, here we are, we are @transandtrain!
Speaker Identification:
– Indicate who is speaking, especially for off-screen dialogue.
Indicate Sounds and Actions:
– Use brackets to describe sounds or actions that are not immediately visible.
Use of Ellipses and Italics:
– Indicate pauses or incomplete thoughts with ellipses (…).
– Use italics for emphasis or foreign words.
Neutral Tone:
– Avoid inserting personal opinions. Focus on faithfully capturing the original message.
Proofread:
– Always proofread your subtitles to avoid errors.
Subtitling DON’Ts
Avoid Overcrowding:
– Keep subtitles under the 12-word limit to ensure readability.
Don’t Split Sentences:
– Try to complete sentences within one subtitle. If necessary, remain faithful to the audio and concise.
Avoid Special Effects:
– Refrain from using flashy effects. The goal is clarity and readability.
Avoid Slang and Jargon:
– Use simple language and avoid obscure expressions.
Faithful Translation:
– Stay true to the original dialogue. Do not change the meaning.
Include Essential Information:
– Ensure important information is not omitted.
Avoid Covering Important Visuals:
– Do not obscure critical visuals with subtitles.
Use of All Caps:
– Avoid using all caps except for emphasis.
Helpful Resources
This document outlines the general language-specific requirements for Spanish (both Latin America and Spain). While it does not address every possible situation, it is a very helpful guide both for linguistic and non-linguistic aspects.
Remember, good subtitling enhances the viewer’s understanding and enjoyment of the content, while bad subtitling can detract from the experience. Following these tips will help you create professional and effective subtitles that meet the highest standards.
