What do you call text on-screen in a video?

On-Screen Text in Videos: Captions, Lower Thirds, and Visual Storytelling

In today’s digital landscape, videos have become an essential tool for communication and storytelling. To ensure that videos are accessible, engaging, and effective, it’s crucial to incorporate on-screen text strategically. This text, often referred to as captions or lower thirds, plays a vital role in enhancing the viewer experience.

Types of On-Screen Text

Captions:
Captions are lines of text that appear on the screen to transcribe spoken audio. They provide accessibility for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing and can also be helpful for non-native speakers or those watching in noisy environments.

Lower Thirds:
Lower thirds are graphic overlays that typically appear at the bottom of the screen. They display essential information about speakers, locations, or other relevant details. Lower thirds can also include imagery or animations to enhance visual appeal.

Benefits of On-Screen Text

• Accessibility: Captions and lower thirds ensure that videos are accessible to a wider audience, including those with disabilities.
• Clarity and Context: On-screen text provides additional information that can help viewers understand the content more clearly. For example, captions can clarify accents or technical jargon, while lower thirds can provide context about speakers or locations.
• Engagement: Well-placed on-screen text can enhance viewer engagement by keeping them visually focused and informed.
• Branding: Lower thirds can be used to reinforce branding and promote the video’s sponsor or creator.

Balancing On-Screen Text

While on-screen text is essential for accessibility and engagement, it’s important to strike a balance. Excessive text can overwhelm viewers and detract from the visual experience. Conversely, insufficient text may leave viewers confused or lost.

To achieve the optimal balance, consider the following guidelines:

• Keep it concise: Use only essential information that supports the video’s content.
• Use legible fonts and colors: Choose fonts that are easy to read, even from a distance. Use contrasting colors to ensure visibility.
• Position strategically: Place on-screen text in a location that doesn’t interfere with the action or important visuals.
• Avoid excessive animation: Use animation sparingly to enhance visual appeal without distracting viewers.

By following these best practices, you can create videos with on-screen text that enhances accessibility, provides clarity, and increases viewer engagement. Remember, a balanced approach is key to ensuring that your videos communicate effectively and leave a lasting impression.