Audio description (AD)
What is audio description (AD)?
Audio description (AD) is a narration technique that is added to the regular audio track of visual media content, such as films, television programmes, theatre productions and museum exhibitions. These narratives describe visual elements and actions that are essential for understanding the context, plot or atmosphere, but are not conveyed by the main audio track alone. AD enables people with visual impairments or blindness to experience visual content more fully and independently.
The importance of audio description
Audio Description bridges an important gap in the accessibility of visual media by ensuring that all viewers, regardless of their visual ability, can participate in the full experience. It promotes inclusion and equality in entertainment and education and ensures that visual content is accessible to a wider audience.
How does audio description work?
Creation of AD tracks
Professional audio descriptors create scripts that describe visual elements in detail and voice them in the natural pauses of the main audio track. The descriptions include information about characters, settings, costumes, facial expressions, gestures and important plot events.
Integration into media
AD tracks are then integrated into the visual media, either as an optional audio track that users can enable, or as part of the standard audio playback for special screenings or releases.
Use by end users
Viewers with visual impairments can use the AD via TVs, cinemas, streaming services or dedicated receivers to gain a fuller understanding and enjoyment of the visual content.
Best practices for the creation of audio description
- Precision and clarity: Descriptions should be accurate and easy to understand to avoid misunderstandings.
- Non-invasive integration: AD should disrupt the original audio experience as little as possible and blend seamlessly into pauses in the dialogue.
- Audience consideration: The language and style of the AD should be tailored to the target audience to provide a relevant and engaging experience.
Is audio description only available for films and TV programmes?
No, AD is also used in other areas, including theatre performances, museum exhibitions, sporting events and even live events.
Can I use AD functions on my TV or streaming services?
Yes, many modern TVs and most major streaming services offer access to AD tracks for selected content. However, availability may vary by provider and region.
As a visually impaired person, how can I ensure that I have access to AD?
Check with your local TV provider, streaming service or cinema about the availability of AD for specific content. Many organisations also offer resources and support to facilitate access to AD.
Who is audio description for?
Audio description is designed for people who are blind or visually impaired. It enables these people to understand and enjoy visual content in films, TV shows, theatre plays and other visual media through spoken explanations and descriptions.
How does audio description work?
Audio description works by providing an additional audio track that describes important visual details and actions that are not apparent from the programme's dialogue or sound effects alone. These descriptions are inserted in natural pauses in the dialogue to explain context or visual jokes and plot points that might otherwise be missed.
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