Closed Captioning & Audio Description for Beginners

Discover the essential skills of creating accessible media content in this hands-on workshop designed for beginners.

Whether you’re a content creator, filmmaker, or accessibility advocate, this comprehensive session will equip you with practical knowledge and tools to make your media inclusive for all audiences. This three-part workshop combines technical understanding with practical application. Begin with an informative presentation exploring closed captioning and audio description from a broadcast technology perspective—learn how these accessibility features are created, delivered, and distributed across various platforms. In the second session, dive into closed captioning fundamentals. Practice captioning short film trailers using both manual techniques and automated tools, gaining confidence in timing, formatting, and accuracy standards. The final session focuses on audio description script writing, where you’ll learn to craft descriptive narratives that enhance the viewing experience for blind and visually impaired audiences, then export your work for broadcast-ready distribution.

About the Instructor

Nathaniel Deshpande is the CEO/Founder of Closed Caption Creator Inc., a broadcast technology company based in Cambridge, Ontario. Born in Guelph, Ontario, Nathaniel specializes in broadcast technology, media asset management, linear playout, and accessible media solutions. His company’s platform enables editing and creation of closed captioning and described video content for major clients including NBC, Discovery, Warner Brothers, Keywords Studios, and Apple. Nathaniel’s expertise bridges technical innovation with accessibility advocacy, making media more inclusive for diverse audiences. He lives in Cambridge with his wife Mikayla and five-year-old son Archer.