What is audio description?
Audio description (AD) is like a narrator telling a story. It is an additional commentary that describes body language, expressions and movements, making the story clear through sound. It describes what might otherwise be missed by a person with sight loss.
AD is also known as video description in some countries.
Another term used for this service in the US is DVS ® [Descriptive Video Service], registered copyright of WGBH Boston.
It is provided as an aid to understanding and enjoyment of television and films particularly for blind and partially sighted people.
Production of AD
Who is responsible for AD of content for television?
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Broadcasters commission the AD providers to create tracks AD tracks
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AD providers that create the actual AD tracks
Read about the delivery of AD on TV
Who is responsible for production of AD of films in cinemas?
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Film distributors commission AD providers to create the actual AD tracks
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AD Providers create the actual AD tracks
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Cinema authorities deliver the AD to cinema goers in the cinemas
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Home Entertainment divisions make sure that these AD are included on DVD and Blu-ray releases
Read about the delivery of AD in cinemas
Audio description on television - RNIB Policy Paper
Read the RNIB policy paper by Professor Richard Collins, available in word and pdf