Our world has become so dynamic that no matter what your skill sets are, they can be monetized, and you can use them to make a living. One such skill is dubbing.
Keep reading today’s Day Translations blog to learn more. This is your beginner’s guide to dubbing.
Let’s get started!
What is Dubbing?
Naturally, one of the first questions you’ll ask is what dubbing is. Well, here’s easy to understand definition:
- Dubbing, also known as Audio Dubbing, is the careful and deliberate process of switching out the original audio dialogue of a video and replacing it with new audio. This new audio is usually translated and localized to suit a specific target audience and region.
The replaced audio has to be just as precise and flow naturally just like the original audio did. Examples of what can be dubbed include video games, films, and just about any other audiovisual content that needs to be translated and localized for a specific audience or region.
What are the Different Kinds of Dubbing?
There are 4 main kinds of dubbing, and we’ll explore all 4 below:
Voice Over
While there’s a difference between dubbing and voice-overs, the fact still remains that dubbing is technically a form of voice over. A voice over dub is usually evident in interviews and non-narrative media. The original audio isn’t replaced and the need for creating an illusion for the speakers isn’t necessary either.
Automatic Dialogue Replacement (ADR)
ADR also known as looping is a kind of dubbing usually used for feature films and movies. It is considered a very time-consuming and difficult method. It is also one of the more expensive routes when it comes to dubbing.
When it comes to Automatic Dialogue Replacement, you’ll need some equipment that’s usually on the pricier side. But, the advantage of ADR is that you get great results for the finished product.
ADR involves the looping of short phrases that are narrated and synced perfectly to the video recording.
Lock-to-Picture Recording
Lock-to-picture is a much more affordable alternative to ADR. The process for this kind of dubbing also differs in some regard as well. Here’s how it works:
A professional voice actor is used in place of ‘equipment’. They watch the film/video carefully and translate what is being said and they try their best to replicate the original performance to the best of their ability.
The use of a talented professional as opposed to the use of expensive equipment makes the lock-to-picture recording method extremely effective as a kind of dub.
Lectoring
Lectoring is similar to voice-overs. This kind of dubbing involves the lowering of the original audio from the video and a voice-over recording is played at a louder decibel over the recording.
This kind of dubbing is popular for international newscasts. The newly recorded and translated audio is synced perfectly, ensuring that what is being said matches the duration of the original audio.
The Steps Involved in the Dubbing Process
It’s always good to set the foundation before you get into the meat of the matter. So now that we’ve covered ground on the basics, let’s now take a look at the dubbing process.
#1 – Translate the Script
If there were no need for translation on your audiovisual content, then there would be no need for dubbing. Keeping this in mind, one of the first phases of the dubbing process includes translating and localizing the script to fit the required language and region.
Of course, both the translation and the localization stage of this process should be handled by professionals; much like the ones, we have here at Day Translations.
#2 – Casting of Voice Actors for the Dubbing Process
Casting voice actors for the roles is the next step in the process. There’s always the perfect person for the role at hand. In this case, a very deliberate search is on for the perfect voice/voices for the roles that are to be dubbed.
It is preferred that professional voice actors are casted for the dub roles. The more experienced the voice actors, the better. This way their work speaks for them as well as their past clients.
#3- The Recording
Naturally, the next step in the dubbing process is the voicing/recording. Depending on the kind of dub chosen, the recording process can be different for each. The voice that is chosen for the recording must be apt. This means that their tone, intonations, and overall performance must be relevant to the role and suitable, given the circumstances.
#4 – Mix the Dialogue
Next in the dubbing process is a technique called mixing. Mixing is an editing process that involves making sure that the newly recorded audio fits or syncs well with the original video recording. The aim is to have a very seamless sync that isn’t obvious.
#5 – Set a Release Date
The final step of the dubbing process is the release of the project you’ve worked on so assiduously. The release date and time is all up to you. At this stage of the process, you’re all done and it’s time to show the world the work you’ve done.
Tips for Video-Dubbing
- Make sure that you have a professional-quality microphone
- Research to find the best recording software to get the job done
- The quality of the recording has a lot to do with how apt your voice is. Be relaxed, be clear in what you say, and speak consistently.
- Your accent must sync with the lip movement in the video
Let’s Conclude
You’re now one step closer to getting started on your dubbing journey. You’re now more knowledgeable about this technique and are also walking away with a few tips.
Don’t forget, for all your professional translation, localization, and voice-over services, Day Translations leads the pack. We’re all about language and all our services are provided in every language.
No matter the industry, no matter the occasion, our team of professionals is available 24/7 to help you get the job done. Click here to get your free quote.