Multimedia localisation for video, audio and e-learning
Video, audio and interactive content adapted for international audiences, with subtitles, recorded voice-overs and on-screen text that land correctly in every language.
Multimedia localisation combines translation with the technical work that video and audio require. Subtitles must be timed to speech and fit reading speeds, voice-over scripts must match the pace of the original, and on-screen text, graphics and examples must make sense to the new audience.
We localise marketing and promotional video, corporate training, e-learning modules, documentaries and online media. Our linguists pay attention to timing, tone and cultural references so the message carries across, not only the literal words.
Because multimedia projects often start with a transcript, our transcription and subtitling team works alongside our localisation linguists, and project managers coordinate with your production team or studio on file formats and delivery.
Why choose SILA Linguists for multimedia
Subtitles
Timed subtitles in multiple languages, following reading-speed and line-length conventions, delivered in standard formats.
Voice-over recording and dubbing scripts
Scripts adapted for natural pacing and, where required, lip-sync timing, then recorded as voice-overs in the target language, or supplied ready for your own studio.
On-screen text and graphics
Titles, captions, labels and graphic text translated and supplied for your editors to replace.
E-learning content
Course text, narration, quizzes and interactive elements localised for international learners.
Cultural review
Examples, imagery, gestures and humour are checked for cultural fit and flagged where they may need changing.
Multimedia localisation by SILA Linguists®: subtitles, voice-over and e-learning
SILA Linguists® adapts video, audio and interactive content for international audiences. Our linguists adapt documentaries, trailers and podcasts in media and entertainment; e-learning courses and lecture recordings in education and training; campaign films and social video in fashion; audio guides and destination content in travel and hospitality; and product demonstrations and webinars in technology. We also localise explainer videos, public information films and recorded training for charities, public bodies and financial services firms, so they can be understood by every audience, whatever language they speak at home.
Each project starts with an accurate transcription and time-coded script, which our linguists translate and adapt for subtitles, captions, on-screen text or recorded voice-over, keeping reading speed, lip timing and cultural references right for each audience. We deliver subtitle files in standard formats and captions for Deaf and hard-of-hearing viewers. Languages we work in include Spanish, French, Italian, Mandarin, Hindi and Arabic, and SILA Linguists® works in more than 350 languages and dialects for clients in the UK, North America, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. For voice-over we cast native voices that suit your brand, supervise the recording against the approved script and check the final mix before delivery.
Multimedia often belongs to a larger launch. We localise the website and software around your videos, translate press packs and contracts through document translation, with certified translation where needed, and provide simultaneous interpreting for live streams, premieres and press junkets. For book and script projects, our literary translators keep the voice consistent across page and screen. Footage and unreleased material stay confidential under NDA and UK GDPR.
Step by step
Share your media
Send video or audio files, any existing scripts or transcripts, and your target languages and delivery formats.
Transcript and plan
We prepare or check the source transcript and agree whether you need subtitles, a recorded voice-over, on-screen text or all three.
Localise
Linguists translate and adapt the content, and subtitlers time the subtitles to the picture.
Check and deliver
Native-speaking reviewers check the result against the video before we deliver files ready for publishing or production.
Frequently asked questions
Should we use subtitles or voice-over?
Subtitles are quicker and more economical and keep the original voices. Voice-over suits training, children's content and audiences who prefer to listen. We can advise based on your audience and platform.
Do you record voice-overs?
Yes. We adapt the script for timing and pacing and record the voice-over in the target language. If you prefer to use your own studio or voice talent, we supply the adapted script ready for recording.
What subtitle formats do you deliver?
SRT and WebVTT, or other formats your platform requires.
Tell us the language, the format and the date
Our bookings team will confirm the details with you and arrange the right linguist. Have the language (and dialect, if you know it), the type of assignment and the date ready.