Planning Subtitles and Translations for a Tanzania Documentary
Subtitles affect interviews, editing and review. Plan the languages and approval process before filming so translation is not treated as a last-minute export task.
1 min read · Production planning
Choose the required versions
List the languages spoken, the languages viewers need and whether captions include non-speech sound. Decide on burned-in text or separate subtitle files according to the publication platform. Check current platform requirements before delivery.
Preserve meaning
Use a suitable translator or reviewer for the subject matter. Names, programme terminology and numbers need particular care. An interview excerpt should be checked in context rather than translating isolated sentences after the edit is locked.
Review on screen
Check reading time, line breaks, contrast and placement against the actual video. Keep a glossary and approved transcript for future versions. Leave enough schedule for corrections after the programme team reviews the subtitled edit.
Before you enquire
- Language and caption matrix
- Terminology glossary
- Contextual translation review
- On-screen subtitle check
Advice from a Moshi-based photography and film studio. Availability, fees, permissions and delivery are confirmed for each assignment; examples are planning guidance rather than a booking commitment.
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