Retelling narrative in 360° videos: Implications for audio description

Abstract

The aim of this article is to question whether the approach to producing audio description in 2D films needs to be revisited for 360° narrative videos, a new media format characterized by its immersive capacity. A two-step research methodology was designed. First, an extensive literature review was performed. The data obtained during the first step was then used to design and conduct focus groups. The first part of the article discusses the findings from the literature review, comparing standard narratives with 360° narrative videos. It draws a number of conclusions for audio describers in relation to content selection, a key task in the translation of visuals into words. In the second part, data obtained from the focus groups held with describers and users is presented. The results suggest possible approaches to audio description for 360° content, such as the use of spatial sound and elements of interaction.