Video transcription is the process of converting spoken words within video content into written text. It serves several purposes – from creating captions and subtitles for enhanced accessibility to serving as a searchable text in post-production editing. This transcript is not only a written record but also a critical tool in the editing suite.
There are several types of transcription that cater to specific needs:
Time-Coded: This includes timestamps, making it easy for editors to find specific parts of the video.
Verbatim: Every word, pause, and sound is documented, which is essential for documentaries and legal videos.
Multilingual: For content creators aiming at global audiences, translating speech in videos to various languages is indispensable.
These transcripts can dramatically improve the efficiency of video editors by providing a searchable text counterpart to the visual content.
Multilingual transcription and subtitling extend the reach of your content across linguistic borders. The case of a content creator who significantly expanded their viewership by incorporating translations and subtitles illustrates just that. The accessibility and broader appeal that comes with multilingual support cannot be overstated.
Video logging is the process of reviewing and cataloging footage before the edit. This step can save countless hours by organising takes, noting good performances, and flagging valuable pieces of content. A documentary film editor’s workflow was transformed with the adaptation of video logging services, becoming exemplary for others to follow.
Logging of rushes is a service mostly used by production companies who need to time code and log the useful portions of video. This includes raw footage, in order to be able to sift through quickly. We are happy to work with your video rushes. Video transcription can include logging camera shots. It will also include important events or visual scenes in your video that may not be included within the dialogue.
Much like logging of rushes, this service can be useful for video and film production companies looking to have their videos transcribed. For example, if shots need to be cut together, there may be silence on the original film, but a transcript will reflect ‘wide shot on ranch at sunset’ for ease of locating that shot. We are able to transcribe, add visual descriptions from your videos and match up time codes that are either burnt into the screen or included in the audio metadata.
However, if your video rushes contain a large number of video clips and you want us to match the onscreen times, we do ask that a blank screen is included for a couple of seconds between each clip to help the transcriptionist note the exact time change. Apart from that, simply let us know what you need and we’ll do the rest.
Post-production transcription isn’t only about creating a paper trail of the final video. It aids in creating closed captions and subtitles, which are not just about accessibility, but also about viewer engagement and SEO. A content creator’s channel saw a substantial boost in search engine visibility thanks to the inclusion of transcripts, proving that accessibility efforts can have ripple effects on visibility and reach.