When producing video content it is important to consider the target audience you wish to reach. If you want your material to be accessible to viewers with hearing difficulties, you may wish to consider adding sign language as an option for end users. British Sign Language (BSL) is the first language of around 70,000 people in the UK today, and there are many other sign languages which are used all over the world. Our audiovisual studio is fully equipped to add BSL content to your video material, making it available to a much wider audience.

The process

The process we use for recording BSL content for video is very similar to Chroma Key techniques used in television and film production. A qualified sign-language interpreter, chosen according to the project's requirements, is filmed in front of a blue or green screen. He or she signs at the same rate as the original audio content. Once the interpreter has checked the footage for accuracy and clarity (and any replacement footage is recorded) the screen is edited out leaving only the interpreter. This can then be placed over the original video content, making sure that the interpreter is not blocking any vital visual information on screen. Finally, this is output to the required format – we can add this content as an optional language on a DVD, or directly onto footage on a VHS tape. Our studio is also capable of adding signed content to web video in a number of ways – if you require more information, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Other options

In addition to BSL overlays, we offer a number of ways to improve the accessibility of your video content. Video captioning is another method which is suitable for making your material accessible to viewers with hearing difficulties. We also provide an audio description service, which allows people with visual impairments to make use of your video content. You can find out more information about these services, as well as accessibility services for print and web, on our accessibility page.