Studio Calabria
Subtitles
For the Deaf
Subtitled text is the reformulation of a spoken text according to the parameters of the written code. A second-generation text that establishes a relationship of complementarity and completeness of meaning with the visual context.
The Creative Process
This rewriting process essentially takes place in two stages: listening to the audio and the drafting/transcription of the text (where a subtitle can also be the verbalization of a non-verbal event: sound, noise).
From a linguistic point of view, it is relevant to note the need to refer to the situational context: it is not enough to read a subtitle, you have to see it. The operator has to deal with information coming from different materials: spoken text, sound context, and visual context.
The Operator's Role
Before approaching the text, it is advisable to have an overview of the program, view it to evaluate suitable solutions, identify the typical user, grasp the narrative style, and identify the main characters for the assignment of guide-colors.
The work inevitably presents a margin of discretion that each operator takes on as a personal responsibility, with the absolute goal being the maximum readability of the text.
The Golden Rules
Adaptation
Reduction can occur in vocabulary, morphology, and syntax. Simple, short, unambiguous words, a moderate use of pronouns, simple sentences, and short periods are preferred.
Length / Duration
Since the speaking time is less than the reading time, temporal limits must be imposed and reductions made. We evaluate the primary (indispensable) aspects by intervening on the duration, as the two values are closely correlated.
Language & Vocabulary
In non-specialized languages, words can be replaced to simplify. However, this approach is calibrated based on the context: documentaries or specific talk shows will require preserving terminological precision.
Gestures
Spontaneous speech has unfinished sentences and resorts to gestures. Our job is to integrate into the written dimension what is improper in speech, left to intonation, expression, or context.
The Action
When information is not verbally encoded, reading is completed through vision. We balance the text with the moving image.
Sound Details
Punctuation, intonation, dialect, slang, volume, quotes, songs, poems, and humor. Every relevant sound is visually transposed to guarantee the same emotional experience.
"Scripta Volant - La Rai per i Sordi"
Edizioni Rai Eri
Studio Calabria is proud to have contributed to the realization of this book, a point of reference for television accessibility.