Audio Introduction

Make your visual projects more accessible with descriptive audio introduction

Audio introduction: accessible context, without full audio description

Making content accessible means thinking about how different audiences experience it. 

Our audio description services provide detailed, voiced narration of on-screen visuals, giving blind and partially sighted audiences the context they need to fully understand and enjoy content.

However, full audio description isn’t always the right fit for every project. Budget, format or time constraints can sometimes make a full AD track impractical and that’s where audio introduction comes in!

Audio introduction provides essential visual context at the start of a video, programme or scene, describing key elements such as setting, characters, costumes and visual style. This upfront introduction helps audiences follow and engage with the content more confidently as it unfolds.

It’s a practical, effective way to improve accessibility when full audio description isn’t possible.

Ready to get started? Contact us today and find out why we score 4.7* on Trustpilot. 

Audio describer working on laptop, holding pen and using microphone

"It's lovely to work with someone who truly values and understands the importance of accessibility. Thanks Ffion!"

Scope

"We are really lucky that VoiceBox could help us fulfil our mission of inclusivity and accessibility; and help us raise the calibre of our event."

University of Liverpool

"I'd highly recommend VoiceBox. Not only was the cost fair, but the customer service was second to none."

Blend

  • Accessibility-first audio introductions, tailored to your content and audience
  • Honest advice on when audio introduction or full audio description is the right approach
  • End-to-end, dedicated project management 
  • Trusted by global brands, non-profits, broadcasters and event organisers
  • Scalable audio introduction solutions for digital, broadcast and event content
  • Flexible options supporting WCAG and wider accessibility requirements!

Contact us today for a free quote or accessibility consultation.

What is audio introduction?

Audio introduction is an accessibility solution that provides essential visual context at the start of a video, programme or piece of content. This is in contrast to audio description, which provides descriptive narration throughout a piece of content. 

Audio introduction describes key visual elements such as the setting, characters, costumes, locations and visual style before the main content begins. 

Audio introduction is particularly effective for short-form content, live recordings, events, performances and productions where full audio description may not be practical.

How audio introduction supports accessibility

By setting the scene upfront, audio introduction helps ensure audiences aren’t left guessing about important visual details.

For many projects, audio introduction offers a meaningful step towards inclusion, especially where time, format or budget constraints apply.

Audio introduction vs audio description

Audio introduction and audio description both support blind and partially sighted audiences, but they serve different purposes.

Audio description provides ongoing narration throughout a video, describing visual information as it appears on screen.
Audio introduction, by contrast, delivers that context at the beginning, rather than throughout the content.

In some cases, audio introduction may be used instead of full audio description. 

Fully managed, from script to delivery

At VoiceBox, we manage the full audio introduction process.

Our team handles scripting, professional voiceovers, recording and audio post-production, ensuring introductions are clear, well-paced and easy to follow. Every audio introduction is carefully crafted to suit your content, audience and format.

We’ll also advise on tone and placement, making sure the introduction feels natural and helpful.

When is audio introduction the right choice?

Audio introduction can be a great solution for:

  • Short-form video content
  • Theatre, performance and cultural content
  • Event recordings and presentations
  • Projects with limited time or budget
  • Content where continuous narration isn’t suitable

We’ll always give practical advice on whether audio introduction is the best approach, or whether full audio description would better meet your accessibility goals!

 

Audio description for Richie Turner Associates

"We were delighted to work with VoiceBox, based in Wales! The service we received was fantastic, and everyone on the team helped deliver high-quality audio descriptions for our research project films."

Multilingual voice overs for Yard B

“Excellent at providing high-quality foreign language voice-over artists quickly, efficiently and the personal service provided is second to none”

  • Accessibility-first audio introductions, tailored to your content and audience
  • Honest advice on when audio introduction or full audio description is the right approach
  • End-to-end, dedicated project management 
  • Trusted by global brands, non-profits, broadcasters and event organisers
  • Scalable audio introduction solutions for digital, broadcast and event content
  • Flexible options supporting WCAG and wider accessibility requirements!

Contact us today for a free quote or accessibility consultation.

What is audio introduction?

Audio introduction is a short spoken narration placed at the start of a video, programme or performance. It describes key visual elements. such as settings, characters, costumes and visual style.

How is audio introduction different from audio description?

Audio introduction provides context upfront, before the main content starts. On the other hand, audio description delivers narration throughout a video, describing visual information as it appears.

When is audio introduction the right solution?

Audio introduction is particularly useful when:

  • Full audio description isn’t practical due to time, format or budget
  • Content is short-form or event-based
  • Continuous narration would interrupt pacing or dialogue
  • You want to provide essential context without ongoing description

We’ll help you decide if audio introduction is the best fit for your content!

Do you write the audio introduction script?

Yes! Our team handles scriptwriting, voice over recording and post-production.

Can audio introduction be multilingual?

We can provide audio introductions in multiple languages, helping make content accessible to wider audiences across different regions.

Is audio introduction compliant with accessibility standards?

Audio introduction can support accessibility goals and good practice, particularly where full audio description isn’t possible.

We’ll advise on how it fits alongside standards such as WCAG and wider accessibility expectations.

Can audio introduction be combined with other accessibility services?

Absolutely! Audio introduction can be delivered alongside subtitles, captions, sign language interpreting and audio description as part of a joined-up accessibility approach.

How do we get started?

We offer a free consultation to understand your content and accessibility goals, and to recommend whether audio introduction or another solution is right for your project.

VoiceBox: Your go-to audio introduction partner

  • Versatile: Since 2014, we’ve supported accessible content across sectors including education, eLearning, public services, film, broadcast, events and digital media. Whether audio introduction is used on its own or alongside full audio description, we adapt our approach to suit your content, audience and format.
  • Collaborative: We see every project as a partnership. Our accessibility experts work closely with you to understand your goals, audience and creative intent, offering free accessibility consultations to help you choose the most effective approach.
  • Flexible: Content and schedules change — and we’re built for that! From last-minute edits to evolving briefs, we adapt quickly while maintaining quality and inclusive best practice.

 

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