Videos are already a quick, digestible form of content. But it can be made even more accessible. Through explainer videos, paired with customized subtitles, creators can further reach out to audiences across the globe.
How to integrate subtitles? Use video editing software.
Let’s explore the best practices for adding subtitles or captions that help viewers stay engaged and understand your content seamlessly.
Why Subtitles and Captions Matter?
They do more than repeat spoken words on screen; they add a layer of accessibility that can drive higher engagement and retention. Captions can:
- Enhance Comprehension: For audiences watching videos in noisy or silent environments, captions are a life-saver.
- Reach International Audiences: Subtitles allow viewers to follow along even if the video isn’t in their native language.
- Boost Accessibility: Captions support viewers who are hard of hearing or deaf, expanding the inclusivity of your video content.
Captions for Different Platforms
If you plan to post your explainer video on multiple platforms, consider their unique requirements. For example:
- YouTube: It automatically generates captions for all videos, but you can still edit and upload your own if needed.
- Facebook: Videos autoplay without sound on Facebook, so make sure to include captions to grab viewers’ attention.
- TikTok: Captions should be kept short to fit the platform’s vertical format and video duration limits.
- Instagram: For Instagram Stories, use less text and more visuals to keep viewers engaged.
Best Practices for Integrating Subtitles and Captions
To edit a video and add subtitles, there is no need for anything pro-like or expensive. Even a built-in and other free options can do the trick. It’s just a matter of selecting what is best for you.
1. Choose the Right Video Editing Software
Some online platforms are made specifically for generating subtitles, while others allow to create and edit them manually. Ensure your video editing software includes customizable subtitle settings (text size, color, and placement).
Many video editors provide easy captioning with their standard features, so you won’t need to compromise on quality.
2. Use Auto-Transcription and Edit for Accuracy
Auto-transcription features are common in modern video editing platforms and can save time when generating captions. While these automated systems do a good job, always review and edit the text for accuracy.
Nothing disengages a viewer faster than inaccurate subtitles. Small errors in spelling or punctuation can distract from your message, so spend time editing the output.
3. Keep Text Clear and Readable
In terms of readability, clear, simple fonts work best. Avoid over-the-top fonts, which can make subtitles difficult to read.
If your video editor allows such, use a template that suits your video style.
Additionally, text size matters. Subtitles that are too small will go unnoticed, while oversized captions can overpower the visuals. Strike a balance to ensure your captions are legible without dominating the screen.
Check out great examples of explainer videos: https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/explainer-videos
4. Timing and Synchronization: Getting It Right
Even the best-written captions are ineffective if they aren’t in sync with the audio. Most video editing tools offer timeline features where you can manually adjust the timing of each caption. Pay attention to the natural pacing of speech and ensure each line of text appears long enough to be read comfortably.
Tip: For longer sentences, break captions into shorter segments that are easier to digest. Avoid overwhelming the viewer with too much text on screen at once (if it’s not intentional).
5. Adding Style with Colors and Backgrounds
Using a background box or adding color to your captions can improve readability, especially on light or visually complex backgrounds. For social media platforms, opt for a color palette that reflects your personal or platform’s aesthetics.
6. Testing Your Captions on Different Devices
Before finalizing your video, play it on various devices and screen sizes to see how your subtitles look like. What may be readable on a desktop screen could be too small on a smartphone, so always double-check.
You can also pre-test your subtitles on the platforms themselves or through third-party tools, to spot any technical issues beforehand.
7. Exporting and Uploading Subtitles
Many video editing programs enable you to export captions as separate files; some offer text options you place right on the video. Whichever format you choose, be sure to save a backup of your final version for future reference.
Tip: If you’re uploading to YouTube or Facebook, consider exporting the captions separately as .SRT files. This allows viewers to enable/disable subtitles at their discretion.
Conclusion
Subtitles and captions make your explainer videos more effective across diverse audiences. By following these best practices and using robust video editing software, you can elevate your explainer videos to a new level of professionalism. Communicate clearly and explain your message to every viewer, no matter their location, native language, or physical abilities.
