Whenever we are given subtitles to translate, we should know if they are already timed or not. On this depends the time we need to finish our job.
If the file is timed, the ideal thing would be to use a “translating memory” to avoid the problems we could encounter if we make a mistake and accidentally change part of the code that doesn’t need changing.
Most subtitles are in the .SSA or .SUB format. They are really .TXT files with a different extension, so we could even open them with the Windows Notepad.
When we translate content we have to take into consideration the same rules that apply when we create content, the UNE_153010=2012 in which time is indicated, as well as length and number of characters.
Another thing to consider is the difference in the “length” of a language. If we translate for example: from German to Spanish; Spanish will occupy up to 20% more space.
These variations can impose a readjustment in the text’s timing, given that not all languages can be read at the same speed. Even though this readjustment should be done by a video editing professional, it helps a lot if the translator pays attention and helps with a few instructions. Let’s remember that we, translators, are used to living in a multilingual environment but most people are not.
