While the world is struggling with the pandemic and uncertain times, we started hearing news of another, less spoken but widely felt pandemic that was brewing under lock-downs and limited mobility. Combined with the economic uncertainties and strained relationships for a few and loneliness for others, the depleting mental health pandemic is also creating major issues all around the world.
Myself, and a friend of mine, have been listening to a world renowned mystic, Sadhguru, regularly. It is incredible how just listening to him at regular intervals, we have had experienced tremendous mental clarity, peace, calm and a sense of well being. Thankfully, this is not the usual positive speaking humdrum, but a truly empowering and clarifying content.
Both of us grew up speaking different languages. I spoke Gujarati and she spoke Chinese. One day we just realized that how many people could be benefited by these simple sessions if they were able to understand the content.
She decided to create the English transcript and translate it to Chinese, while I decided to support someone who can do the translation service to Gujarati. Having worked in technology for a long time, I was confident about finding some tool that will enable me to add these subtitles to the videos.
I tried a couple of desktop tools and multiple online tools. I am going to avoid their names, since it is inconsequential. Because the difference is staggering and instinctive. When I opened the link https://www.kapwing.com, I was not sure what to think of it. I was trying to get something done so I just decided to go for it.
Creating an account was very simple, but just linking it to my gmail account. I logged in a I was ready to launch into my first project.
It has a simple interface and workspace view.
Immediately, I was able to find the Subtitler and get started. The best thing I loved right away was a very clean layout. There is a small video display on the top left where we can view the video as well as control it, either by clicking on the video itself or on the controls to the right.
The text edit options are right below the video and immediately show effect when changed on the video itself.
The 'set to current time' and the arrow keys for finer time adjustments, were the most utilized controls by me. In fact, once you get accustomed to the interface, the work gets done, really fast. I have done 5 min videos in about 15 - 20 min, with very precise results.
The Create button at the bottom right finishes the job and delivers a high quality output video, which can be used multiple ways as shown below.
I would definitely ask you to go experience the interface. The feeling of a smooth operation, the intuitiveness, simplicity and accuracy of the controls make the work delightfully easy with a high quality result.
I have used the Studio feature as well to trim the video and import it straight to the Subtitler for editing. I don't think I will switch to another tool for at least these needs. I look forward to explore the other features that they have available.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire kapwing team and to give them credit for enabling us to make a difference in people's lives, when it matters most.
