Tips on How To Get Started as a Subtitler

Getting started as a subtitler requires a bit of investigation and patience. Being that it is somewhat of a rare skills set, it is important to get adequate training in the field. Below you will find five tips on how to get started as a subtitler.

1. Having impeccable language skills is one of the most important factors to becoming a successful subtitler. Be sure to have strong grammar skills in your native language and  English. (i.e. punctuation, etc.)
2. Before investing in a program, it is a good idea to test drive the field to see if subtitling is something you can see yourself doing. To do this, there are platforms such as TED Talks that has formed a community of volunteer translators to subtitle videos in over 30 languages. Anyone can sign up to subtitle the videos and instructions are given on how to translate videos using free subtitling software. Click here for more information.  https://www.ted.com/participate/translate/get-started  
3. Seek out  institutions that have training programs for subtitling. Most courses can be completed online. Below are some links to some of the institutions and agencies that offer training programs in subtitling.

https://www.calamoycran.com/

https://www.gosub.tv/en/

https://www.acmeedu.org/online-courses

4. After choosing and completing your program, you can start applying for freelance jobs www.upwork.com There are many videographers, filmmakers and directors looking for individuals with strong language and subtitling skills to work on their projects. There are also job opportunities with post production companies in places such as California, London and Spain.

5. Once you have landed a job in subtitling, have fun! Keep yourself abreast of all the different kinds of software that are available to you. Reading movies with subtitles can also help keep you to date on different methods of subtitling.