Video accessibility

Accessible video ensures that everyone can understand and engage with your content, including people who are deaf or hard of hearing, blind or low vision, or using assistive technologies.

Use the guidance below to help make your videos accessible when posting them on websites, social media, or learning platforms.

Key accessibility features for video

Accessible video typically includes captions, transcripts, and clear visual presentation.

Add captions to videos

Captions display spoken dialogue and important sounds so viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing can follow the content.

Many video platforms provide automatic captions that can be edited for accuracy.

Review and correct captions

Automatic captions often contain errors. Review captions to ensure names, terminology, and punctuation are correct.

Accurate captions improve comprehension for all viewers.

Describe important visual content

If your video includes charts, text, or visual information that is not spoken aloud, briefly describe the key details in the narration.

This helps viewers who cannot see the screen understand the content.

 

Create accessible visual content

When designing slides or visuals used in videos, follow basic accessibility practices.

Use readable text and clear layouts
Use large, readable fonts and avoid cluttered slides or dense text.
Ensure sufficient color contrast
Text and graphics should be clearly visible against the background. Good contrast improves readability for viewers with low vision.
Avoid flashing or rapidly moving content
Flashing content can trigger seizures or make videos difficult to follow. Avoid rapid animations or flashing visuals.

 

Video platforms and captioning tools

Many video platforms include built-in tools for captions and transcripts.

 

Quick accessibility checklist for video

Before publishing a video, check the following:

Videos include captions
Captions have been reviewed for accuracy
Important visuals are described verbally
Slides and graphics have good color contrast

 

Need Help?

If you need assistance making video content accessible, contact your campus support team.