Audio Descriptions

An audio description is a narrated audio track that provides additional information about the visual elements of a video where the actual embedded sound track do not sufficiently provide it. It serves to convey key visual details, actions, and scene changes that may not be apparent to those who cannot see the video. Typically the audio description is inserted during natural pauses in dialogue or sound. audio descriptions enhance the overall viewing experience for those with visual disabilities. For example, in a movie scene where characters engage in a non-verbal exchange or when important visual cues contribute to the story, an audio description might include details such as facial expressions, gestures, and environmental elements, enabling individuals with visual impairments to fully comprehend and enjoy the content.  

Why is audio description so important:

Audio description plays a crucial role in ensuring equitable access to visual content for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. The verbal descriptions of visual elements within movies, TV shows, educational videos, and other media, enable those with visual disabilities to fully comprehend and engage with the content. This accessibility feature enhances the entertainment, education, social interactions and any other space where communication plays a vital role.  Moreover, compliance with legal regulations emphasizing accessibility underscores the significance of incorporating audio descriptions, aligning with universal design principles to create a more inclusive and diverse media landscape for everyone.  

Types of audio descriptions

The type of audio description chosen depends on the specific needs of the audience, the nature of the content, and the platform on which it is presented. Here are some of the types of audio descriptions.

Standard Audio Description:

This is the traditional form of audio description used in television shows, movies, and other visual media. It involves narrating relevant visual information during pauses in dialogue or sound.

2. Extended Audio Description:

Extended audio descriptions provide more detailed information about visual elements, offering a richer experience for users. This type is particularly useful for complex scenes or when additional context enhances comprehension.

3. Live Audio Description:

Live events, such as theater performances or sports broadcasts, may have live audio descriptions delivered in real-time. Trained describers convey information about actions, costumes, and set changes as the event unfolds. Think about a sports commentary for both live and replays. A good commentator provides a richer explanation. Remember that commentary from radio before 2000s.

4. Museum and Exhibit Audio Description:

Audio descriptions are also employed in museums and exhibits to provide information about visual displays, artifacts, and artworks. This ensures that individuals with visual impairments can engage with and appreciate visual exhibits. An interesting research article on audio guides for inclusive musiums.

5. Web and Multimedia Audio Description:

Audio descriptions for online content, websites, and multimedia include information about visual elements, graphics, and images. This enhances the accessibility of digital content for individuals using screen readers or other assistive technologies. In order to meet W3c WCAG, Section 508,  EU Accessibility and other global standards audio descriptions are mandatory at least for pre-recorded multi-media content.

6. User-Generated Audio Descriptions:

This is something each one of us can adopt to live as an example for inclusion supporter. Next time when you do a presentation or teach a class either online or offline, try to explain the visuals as much as possible. This additional explanations of pictures, drawings, graphs and other visuals from your slide is a natural user-generated audio description. This also reduces the effort for editing to include audio descriptions after recording while serving f or inclusion during the talk.

Experience the audio description yourself:

Conclusion:

inclusive media viewing experience will not be complete without audio descriptions and captions. This is not just to support visual impaired viewers. These enhancements also support in meeting the accessibility standards such as Web Content Accessibility guidelines and FCC’s 21^st Century Communications and video accessibility act.

Similar articles on Maxability:

• 1.2.3 Audio descriptions or media alternative (Level A)
• 1.2.5 Audio descriptions (Pre-recorded) (Level AA)