What is best between voice over and subtitles in a video?
The answer is not just one!
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The translation of corporate videos is part of our work. In the majority of cases, we translate them from Italian into English and viceversa. We also deal with subtitling and voice over projects in collaboration with a specialized studio.
In corporate videos, content and target market make a difference.
When we translate corporate videos aimed at promoting new products, technologies or services, it is fundamental to know whether subtitles or voice overs will be used in the video production. In fact, this choice will influence the translations.
Sometimes it can be difficult to choose between voice over and subtitles for your corporate video.
If the video is subtitled in a foreign language, the users will read the subtitles while they are listening to the original voice. In this case, subtitles will make the experience feel more authentic to the audience.
However, you need to consider that subtitles must comply with very specific rules, such as the maximum length allowed for an easy reading by the user. And this can sometimes be a limit.
The original text must always be adapted to subtitling while trying to preserve the overall content of the message.
Finally, you must also consider that subtitles can “distract” the audience from the visual content of the video, even when performed professionally.
If a voiceover is used in a video, the translation of the original text must be adapted to the recording needs that depend on the complexity of the video and the need to synchronize the voice with the visual content that scrolls on the screen.
The voice over is often preferred because it doesn’t create “distraction” in the audience, as there is no text superimposed on the screen to read. On the other hand, however, voice over is more expensive and needs more time. It is necessary to use professional recording studios, voice talents, and native speakers.
When choosing between subtitles and voice overs, there are some elements to take into consideration.
Above all, the content of the video influences our choice.
Consider, first of all, what type of video content you wish to broadcast.
For example, if you want to broadcast a tutorial video that explains how a certain product works or describes a specific service, and that perhaps already has graphics and written texts inside it, the voice over is more suitable because the subtitles would make it even more difficult to understand. If, on the other hand, the video focuses more on audio content such as music and sound effects, it might be better to opt for subtitles.
You should also put yourself in the shoes of those who will watch the video and choose the option that allows you to better convey information and achieve the purpose for which you have invested. Surely, the support of a good communication agency is very useful.