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Audio description, also called described video, is the audio-narrated descriptions of key visual elements that may be essential to understanding the plot inserted within natural pauses in dialogue. For instance, a narrator might describe: facial expressions, settings, actions, costumes, etc.
What is Described Video?
Described Video involves the insertion of narrated description of the visual elements that are essential to understanding a of media file.
Without DV, a visually impaired viewer would miss a tender look between romantic leads, an assassin sneaking up with a gun, the clue that will help solve the murder, and the scaly, bug-eyed appearance of invading aliens.
Narration is inserted within natural pauses in dialogue. The process of creating a Described Video file involves thoroughly reviewing the content in order to understand the story, strategically locating the visual elements that require a narrated description, scripting them, and recording them on a separate audio track.
Video description was developed to help people with visual impairments experience a richer independent viewing experience. DV has caught on with a broader audience, including people with autism, and those who work with their hands – the description allows them to catch up on their favourite shows while not taking their eyes off their work.
ONEXTRA offers Described Video in both English and French.
What is Audio Description (AD)?
In Canada, the term “Audio Description” has a separate legal definition and involves a more basic level of description done by a program host or announcer. That’s why we use the term “Described Video” for what the rest of the world calls “Audio Description”. Whatever you call it, ONEXTRA provides the best.
ONEXTRA actively contributed to the development of the Canadian Best Practices Guide for DV. ( DV Best Practice Guide )
What is Live DV?
Live DV is similar to post-production DV but is performed in real-time during a digitally or physically live event. It helps the visually impaired viewer get the most out of live broadcasts like award shows, sporting events and live webcasts. Live DV is a new service that is only provided by a few companies. ONEXTRA is proud to be at the forefront of Live DV.
ONEXTRA actively contributed to the development of the Canadian Best Practices Guide for Live DV Productions. ( Live DV Best Practices Guide )
Top Voice Talents
By recruiting top voice talents, we ensure your show is highly engaging for people with visual impairments. This is especially important for live broadcasts, which have the potential to attract larger audiences. Through careful research, we hire professional on-air announcers who are specifically chosen to suit your program. Male and female voice talents are available.
Described Video Best Practices Working Group
As a member of the Described Video Best Practices Working Group, we are at the forefront of quality audio description producers in North America. Our professional writers and voice talents describe the most popular TV shows on the air today. This is why top names in the industry consistently trust us to provide them live accessibility services.