Transcriptionists and captioners play important roles in the field of converting audio files into text or captions. While both positions involve transcribing spoken language, there are key differences between the two roles that potential candidates should be aware of when considering a career in this industry.
A transcriptionist is responsible for converting various types of audio files into written text. This can include podcasts, videos, lectures, talk radio shows, and more. Transcriptionists listen to the audio and type out what they hear, using editing tools as needed to ensure accuracy. Some transcriptionists may also use software that automatically transcribes recordings, with the transcriber editing for correctness. Transcriptionists must have a good grasp of grammar, punctuation, and language, as well as the ability to understand and transcribe different speakers, accents, and industry-specific terms.
On the other hand, a captioner specializes in transcribing spoken language for the purpose of creating captions for TV episodes and films. There are two main types of captioning: offline captioning, which involves transcribing prepared audio or video content such as TV shows or movies, and live captioning, which requires transcribing live sports events, broadcasts, or TV shows in real time. Captioners use a stenotype machine to transcribe spoken language quickly and accurately to ensure that deaf or hard of hearing individuals can follow along with the audio content. The captions are then inserted into the video so viewers can read along while watching.
In terms of salary, captioners typically earn more than transcriptionists on average. According to data from Indeed Salaries, stenographers earn an average of $51,618 annually, while transcriptionists earn around $47,430. The salaries for both positions can vary depending on factors such as experience, skill level, employer, and region. Real-time captioners tend to earn more than offline captioners, and those working for larger organizations or agencies may also earn higher salaries compared to freelancers or those working for smaller enterprises.
Qualifications for transcriptionists and captioners also differ. Most transcriptionist jobs require an associate degree or certification in transcription, with specialized knowledge in legal or medical terminology for those working in those fields. Transcriptionists must have excellent typing and editing skills, as well as proficiency in industry-specific software and tools. Captioners typically need an associate or bachelor's degree in areas such as stenography, court reporting, or related fields. Many employers prefer candidates with certifications from the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA), such as the Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) or Certified Realtime Reporter (CRR) credentials.
In terms of tools and job types, transcriptionists and captioners also use different equipment and perform different tasks. Transcriptionists primarily use audio playback, text editing software, and foot pedals to transcribe spoken language into text. Captioners, on the other hand, rely on specialized captioning software to time-sync captions with video content. Captioners typically work with visual media such as movies, TV shows, and web videos, ensuring that their captions match the on-screen action and dialogue.
Both transcriptionists and captioners face unique challenges in their work. Transcriptionists may encounter difficulties such as poor audio quality, multiple speakers, accents, dialects, and industry-specific terms that can make transcription accuracy challenging. Captioners must navigate challenges such as time-syncing captions with fast-paced or visually complex video content, as well as accurately conveying the tone and emotion of the speakers through their captions.
In conclusion, while both transcriptionists and captioners play crucial roles in converting audio files into text or captions, there are key differences between the two positions in terms of salary, qualifications, tools, job types, and challenges. Understanding these differences can help individuals make an informed decision when considering a career as a transcriptionist or captioner in this growing field of work.