NO LIMITS MEDIA: SUBTITLING, AUDIO DESCRIPTION, ACCESSIBILITY & LIVE TRANSCRIPTION

The name says it all.

Every film, video, and project is unique in its challenges. At No Limits Media, we work with you to identify the distinctive features of your project, and develop solutions that deliver individual and high-quality audiovisual support. We observe compliance with subtitling legislation, guidelines provided by film institutes, as well the standards of individual broadcasters. Experience in film and production, means our team is confident with the workflow in this field.

  • We’re here to advise, provide tips, and support you in finding the best solution for your interests.

Whether theatrical release, home entertainment, or television exploitation, the time between release in the various distribution formats is getting shorter and shorter. It is here that flexibility and a competent team are indispensable. We are familiar with the entry regulations of international film festivals, are able to convert file formats for broadcasters and streaming platforms, and are here to assist you with your submissions to film festivals!

  • No Limits – We want to make the impossible possible.

The core of our portfolio includes:

Confidentiality

Here too, our name speaks for itself. Our clients’ projects are subject to current industry standards. Our team is regularly informed on matters of confidentiality, according to the latest technical standards. The signing of a confidentiality agreement with every member of our in-house team, as well as our freelancers, is a minimum requirement for collaboration.

Social Engagement

No Limits Media is a patron of the Oberlinhaus in Potsdam, Europe’s oldest and largest educational establishment for people with disabilities. Here we contribute to job application training for graduates.

Are you a filmmaker? Do you represent a broadcasting organization or a syndication distributor? Do you work for a streaming platform? Do you work in post-production or for an advertising agency?

  • We can create subtitles, translations, transcriptions, and audio descriptions for your projects.

Would you like to host a conference or convention using our live transcription service? Are you looking to integrate accessibility into your event?

  • We can provide a solution with our live transcription module.

Our Services: Subtitling, Audio Description, Live Description

Do you need subtitles? Perhaps for a German, Spanish, or Japanese project? No problem. Our globally networked team is made up of certified and native professionals in the fields of subtitling and translating.

Would you like to make your productions barrier-free and therefore accessible to people with vision or hearing impairments?

We offer competent solutions for the various areas of accessibility.

While web-based translation tools are undoubtedly useful when you’re trying to find that one word, translating a text well, with all its linguistic and cultural nuances, requires translators who have specialist knowledge of the respective source language, and an excellent grasp of their own native language. Conventional web-based translation tools simply cannot compete.

At No Limits Media, your content is translated by qualified and trained native speakers in such a manner that it hits the mark with the audience.

Our Services in Detail

  • Audio Description (AD)

Making films for people with vision impairments a reality? Of course! Everyone has the right to inclusivity in all areas of society.

There are an estimated 1.2 million people in Germany living with blindness or visual impairment (source: www.dbsv.org))

They too have the right to participate in social and cultural life, which means films need to be treated in a way that makes them accessible to this target group. This is where audio description comes in.

Audio description involves inserting spoken passages between dialogue, which acoustically describe what is happening on screen.

To meet the high standards of this endeavor, No Limits Media works closely with an experienced team that includes the target group itself. Our audio descriptions are therefore always produced by both blind and sighted audio describers. Only through this collaboration are we able to produce visual descriptions that respond to the needs of their target group, making the film an experience for its whole audience. Once written, descriptions are recorded by professional voice artists. This additional soundtrack completes the accessible version of a film. It can then be called up in cinemas, or made available for playback on televisions or home entertainment systems.

  • Accessible Films

Under Section 15, Paragraph 6, of the German Federal Film Board’s German Film Subsidies Act (Filmfördergesetz - FFG), an accessible version of any film funded by the German Federal Film Board (FFA), the German Federal Film Fund (DFFF), or the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media (BKM), must already available at the time of the film’s release to theaters.

At No Limits Media, we prepare accessible versions of your projects for people with visual and hearing impairments, in line with the requirements of the German Film Subsidies Act. This includes preparing subtitles for people with hearing impairments (SDH), as well as audio descriptions (AD).

  • Translations

In translating everything from texts, transcriptions, and scripts, to press material and voice-over text, at No Limits Media, we live up to our name. Across borders, we work exclusively with certified native speaker translators.

  • Live Transcription

Read what other people are saying!

Our live transcription service is currently under development. According to the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK), over three million conventions and conferences are held in annually in Germany. When it comes to hosting such events, Germany is therefore a global leader.

Our live transcription app will bring the spoken word to your mobile device, Mac, or PC with only a few seconds of delay. This means you will be able to follow a presentation from wherever you are, even if you’re still at the airport or in the back of a taxi. You can even scroll back through the text if you want to read something back. This is just one of the many features we will be introducing.

Market release is planned for Fall 2020.

  • Interlingual Subtitling

In contrast to dubbing, we retain the original soundtrack of a film and instead supplement it with subtitles in the desired target language (OmU – Original with subtitles).

At No Limits Media, we work according to the internationally recognized ‘Code of Good Subtitling Practice’(www.transedit.se)published by the European Association for Studies in Screen Translation.

Precise timing (spotting), optimal readability, and an idiomatic translation of the dialogue are the quality characteristics of our work.

  • Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (SDH)

Around 22.1% of people in Europe live with a hearing impairment.
(source: www.schwerhoerigen-netz.de))

According to the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Federal Participation Act (Bundesteilhabegesetz), multimedia must now be made available in accessible formats. This means enabling unrestricted access to content, through subtitles or sign language, to people with hearing impairments.

Yet conventional subtitles, are not sufficient. Subtitles for people with hearing impairments do not just incorporate dialogue, but also identify the speaker, background sounds and provide descriptions of music.
At No Limits Media, we work with subtitlers who have many years of experience producing subtitles for different purposes for the hard-of-hearing.

Our Team

Our team is made up of certified, mostly regular employees, but also freelancers, in the areas of project management, translation, subtitling, and audio description, who are ready to develop high-quality and cost-efficient solutions for and with you.

Stephan Kalesse

Stephan Kalesse

Managing Director

Tel. +49 (0) 3026480-379

Martina Urgesi

Martina Urgesi

Project Leader and Proxy

Tel. +49 (0) 3026480-378

Hanna-Katharina Bock

Hanna-Katharina Bock

No Limits Media Hamburg

Tel +49 (0) 40 21084416

Hannah Schwarz

Hannah Schwarz

Project Manager in Audio Description

Tel +49 (0) 3026480-373

Colin Ullmann

Colin Ullmann

Sales and Distribution Manager

Tel +49 (0) 3026480-374

Anke Paprzycki

Anke Paprzycki

Accountant

Tel +49 (0) 30 26480-392

References

References
No Limits Media, Untertitel, Audiodeskription, Barrierfreiheit & Live-Transkription GmbH is one of the leading companies in Germany, when it comes to accessible film and television productions. Our company has already contributed to a variety of notable and well-known productions in the translation and authoring of subtitles and audio descriptions. In doing so, we have not only enabled people with hearing impairments to fully enjoy films and series. Audiences looking to improve their proficiency in English, benefit enormously the ability to view content in their native language, but read subtitles in English. We would like to take this opportunity to highlight a selection of commissions completed to the full satisfaction of our clients’ and their audience!

Films
Whether a world-renowned film or a small production, our subtitles work brilliantly for any type of film. In our earlier years, we gained experience working on a wide range of films. Needless to say, we always carry out extensive research prior to the writing of subtitles, so that depending on the subject manner and the time period in which the film takes place, cultural differences and the correct use of topic-specific terms are taken into consideration.

Considering we work with over 40 languages, we had no problem swiftly subtitling, for instance, the action thriller John Wick, in which Russian, Chinese, and English are spoken. Some other action films we had the pleasure of working on include 21 Bridges and Fast and Furious 8.

We have extensive experience in subtitling historical dramas, in which it is also not uncommon for numerous languages to be spoken, especially in political or war scenes. Our work has been used for classics such as 1917, Death of Stalin, Operation: 12 Strong, and Detroit.

In the case of comedy, it is of particular importance that the joke lands, and that wordplay, for which emphasis plays a role, is not lost on its audience. When it comes to the many emotional moments familiar to dramas, just a much care must be taken that their intensity is supplanted in the subtitles. We have successfully applied this to productions such as, HERRliche Zeiten, The Children Act, Champions, and Klassentreffen 1.0 and 2.0 (Die Hochzeit).

For the delight of our youngest, some children’s films can also be counted amongst our projects. These include Bibi und Tina 4, Playmobil: The Movie, and Despicable Me 3.

Series
In series work, we also work with the reality show format. As these formats do not use trained actors the dialogue is often indistinct, thus necessitating the use of subtitles to be able to follow the action. For the most part it is German language productions that are subtitled for better comprehension. We have already worked on well-known programs, such as Frauentausch, Zuhause im Glück, or The Wollnys – eine schrecklich große Familie. Other docusoaps that use our subtitles include Extrem sauber – Putzteufel im Messie-Chaos and Die Babystation – Jeden Tag ein kleines Wunder.

Fictional series can also be left in our good hands. These include Roots and the comedy series Wir sind jetzt, for which we produced audio description completely using synthetic voices.

As you might have noticed, we tend not to limit ourselves thematically either. We work conscientiously on every type of production and carry out thorough research prior to the start of a project.

Jobs

Are you looking for a permanent position as a subtitler? Do you aspire to a career in project management ? Do you already have professional experience in the field and are you familiar with established subtitling software? Or are you a native English speaker who would like to acquire further practical experience through a traineeship?

Then why not apply? You can expect a diverse range of projects and an excellent workplace environment, as part of our committed team in Berlin.

Are you a freelancer in the field of subtitling or an audio description writer? Are you familiar with the didactic and technical standards of this field, and would you be able to provide relevant experience and references? Then we look forward to receiving your application at info@no-limits-media.de.

Please note that we only consider complete applications (cover letter, CV, credentials), in our selection process received via email.

Partner

  

What do the terms SDH and HOH mean in the context of subtitling?

SDH and HOH are internationally used terms that describe subtitles for people with hearing impairments. SDH stands for Subtitles for the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing. HOH stands for Hard-of-Hearing. Nowadays the term SDH is used almost exclusively.

Was bedeutet der Begriff "Closed Captions" Bei Untertiteln?

Der Begriff „Closed Captions“ meint Untertitel für Menschen mit eingeschränkter Hörfähigkeit für den englischsprachigen Teletext, er wird aber auch für deutsche SDH im deutschen Kino verwendet.

What kind of issues does automated subtitling present?

Issues in automated subtitling include recognition errors during automatic transcription and/or during automatic spotting, when for instance the software cannot differentiate noises and music from dialogue.

What does the term “OmU” mean?

The term “OmU” (Original mit Untertiteln), means Original with Subtitles. A film in a foreign language will be subtitled in the native language of the country it is released in.

Are people with hearing impairments generally interested in subtitles?

Yes, people with hearing impairments have a keen interest in subtitles and are also entitled to them in the context of equal opportunity.

How long does it take to write the subtitles for a feature film?

The subtitling of a foreign language feature film can take up to a week on average. A number of factors determine turnaround, such as the length of a film, language combination, amount of dialogue, subject matter etc.

Why even have films subtitled?

Films should be subtitled so that a viewer is able to experience other languages and cultures. Film should be subtitled to enable everyone the experience of films.

Who uses subtitles?

Film enthusiasts, foreign language learners, viewers who would like to enjoy a collective experience with family or friends, and so on.

What are Burned In Subtitles?

Burned In Subtitles are part of the video rather than additional information that can be switched on and off. When the video is played, the subtitles automatically appear. These can be provided for promotional or educational videos, YouTube clips and films for exhibitions.

What subtitle formats exist?

The appropriate export format for a subtitling file depends on its intended use or the platform via which the subtitles will be made available. The usual formats for the subtitling of YouTube videos are SRT or STL. Cinema or television projects generally use XML, SRT and STL. No Limits Media works with established export formats and will find the one suitable for your project.

Contact us!

Contact

  • No Limits Media Untertitel-Audiodeskription-Barrierefreiheit-Live-Transkription-GmbH
  • Lützowufer 12
    10785 Berlin
    +49(0) 3026480-379
  • Lübecker Straße 1
    22087 Hamburg
    +49(0) 4021084416
  • info@no-limits-media.de
  • www.no-limits-media.de








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    What is audio description?

    Compound words using ‘audio’ (Latin for ‘I hear,’ from ‘audire’ meaning ‘to hear’), are terminology relating to hearing or sound engineering. Description or descriptive (from the Latin ‘describere’ meaning ‘to describe’ or ‘to rewrite’), signifies a descriptive or illustrative point of view, that claims to be a neutral observation. The objective is a factual depiction.
    It is used in the domain of accessibility and enables blind and visually impaired people to experience film and television. The original soundtrack is retained and natural pauses in the dialogue are filled by an extra speaker, with neutral descriptions of the visuals, in order to create a film experience with minimal loss of content.

    And audio description with synthetic voices?

    Synthetic voices are an economic alternative to audio description with real voices. They are particularly suited to shorter segments of a maximum of 45 minutes in length. Synthetic voices can also result in considerable savings for feature films, when used in productions such as documentaries, in which a number of people speak a foreign language and have only been subtitled.

    What sort of quality can be expected from synthetic voices?

    The quality of currently available synthetic voices is constantly improving. Nevertheless, certain concessions still need to be made when it comes to pronunciation, emphasis, and rhythm of speech, in particular when working with longer passages of speech.

    Does No Limits Media offer both varieties for audio description?

    No Limits Media works with two methods. The first is the classic variant of real voices, which are particularly suited to feature films. The second is the modern variant of synthetic voices, which are better suited to short projects that are up to 45 minutes long.

    How is audio description utilized?

    Audio description can, for instance, be used through the app Greta & Starks. The audio description soundtrack can be downloaded and played back alongside the film. In the event of interruptions, the app resynchronizes with the film’s audio using a so-called ‘digital fingerprint.’

    What is a transcription?

    A transcription is the textualization of an audio or video file. There are different levels of nuance regarding the accuracy of notation. When transcribing a video file for the media sector, in most cases the dialogue is reproduced verbatim, and as appropriate, phenomena such as pauses in speech, incomplete sentences, and hesitation, are also indicated.

    What types of transcription does No Limits Media offer?

    We create transcriptions, which alongside the verbatim rendering of the audio, also include a timecode (the start and end times of speech), and speaker identification. The level of detail can be specified in advance. We transcribe different languages, as well offer translations of the transcripts produced. We deliver transcripts in a range of formats, such as RTF, DOC, or XLSX. These transcriptions can then also be used as a dialogue list.

    Does No Limits Media offer the preparation of dialogue lists?

    We create dialogue lists containing only the verbatim transcription of the audio, time codes, and speaker identification. Additional specifications on pronunciation or dubbing instructions (as with translations for dubbing), are not included.

    What is a CCSL?

    CCSL stands for Combined Continuity, Dialogue and Spotting List. It is a specific format of transcription that in addition to the dialogue, also details instructions, scene descriptions, and music. It is produced in the English language and may be required for US distribution.

    Can I pay my invoice later?

    Please always discuss this possibility with us. Default interest may accrue.

    When will my invoice be paid?

    Quick payment is always possible, as we settle promptly (depending on the creditor, debtor, and project).

    Accessibility in media is a human right:

    This principle was specified in the German Act on Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (Behindertengleichstellungsgesetz, BGG). The BGG came into effect on May 1, 2002. It states an intention to prevent and eliminate discrimination against people with disabilities, as well as to ensure their equal participation in social life, and enable them to lead a self-determined life. The BGG mentions, among other things, the right to the use of sign-language and other communication aids (§ 6 BGG & § 9 BGG), intelligibility and simple language (§ 11 BGG), as well as the provision of barrier-free information technology (§ 12 BGG).

    The UNCRPD (the UN’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities), as well as the Optional Protocol, was ratified in 2009 and has since been legally binding in Germany. The main elements of the UN treaty are reflected in the targets of the European Disability Strategy 2010-2020, which aims to implement the UNCRPD at the EU level. To encourage public and private broadcasters to thoroughly evaluate their work concerning the implementation of the right to accessibility, and in particular their use of sign language.
    June 7, 2019: Directive (EU) 2919/882, also known as the European Accessibility Act (EAA). The directive was published in the EU Official Journal on June 7, 2019, and should be adopted into national legislation by member states by June 28, 2022: “For the purposes of this Directive, access to audiovisual media services should mean that the access to audiovisual content is accessible, as well as mechanisms that allow users with disabilities to use their assistive technologies.” The revised Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD), came into effect on December 19, 2018. It amends the previous Directive 2010/13/EU and frames “law, regulation, or administrative action in Member States concerning the provision of audiovisual media services.” The AVMSD is to be adopted by EU member states by September 19, 2020.
    On December 5, 2019, the heads of the federal state governments in Germany passed the Interstate Media Treaty (Medienstaatsvetrag). The treaty will come into effect on September 19, 2020.

    How many people with a hearing impairment live in Germany?

    According to the German Federation of the Deaf, there are around 80,000 deaf people and 16 million people who are hard of hearing in Germany. This is approximately the same number provided by the World Health Organization. According to the WHO, the hearing ability of 19.8% of the population is so limited, that aids (e.g. subtitles), are required.

    How many people with a vision impairment live in Germany?

    According to the Robert Koch Institute, 3.2% of Germans have severe problems with their vision and 19% are severely restricted. These people require audio description.

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