We are happy to transcribe from analogue video recordings provided they are in the European format, but unfortunately there are no transcription machines available (to our knowledge) that transcribe directly from an analogue video cassette, so in order to make a transcription from a video we first need to re-record all the material on to an audio tape, which is time consuming. We then need to make the transcription from the audio recording and, having done so, attempt to check that we have identified speakers correctly etc.by checking the transcript using the video. As the video does not have transcription-style playback controls this is again time-consuming.

If you have a video made of a meeting or round table discussion for instance, please remember to provide us with a seating plan so that we can actually identify the different speakers from their positions in the room. This may not always be 100% effective, as it depends on the positioning of the camera, but it will help.

Because of the extra time taken to record an audio tape from the video and the time spent checking against the video, as well as the fact that tape quality can vary, we are unable to give a per audio minute quote for transcription from video tape. Our hourly rate is £20 per hour of time taken but it is important to understand that it takes around four to five hours to transcribe one hour of clear, good-quality one-to-one interview from audio tape, and it can take much longer if the quality is poor in any way. The additional time taken to record the audio from the video and then check back will probably be in the region of 1 to 2 hours per hour of video recording. So an hour of analogue video recording may take from five to seven plus hours for an interview and substantially more for a group session.

Other factors that increase the time taken, such as strong accents, background noise or a need for verbatim transcription will also increase the time taken to transcribe.

Please see our FAQ and transcription times pages for more information on the time taken to transcribe, and fill in our on-line quote request form or phone us on +44 (0)1953 880206 to get a quote tailored to your exact needs.

Digital recording is becoming more affordable all the time and it has many advantages over analogue recordings, so consider switching to digital! See our articles pages for information on choosing the right equipment and digital versus analogue. Please also see our information on digital audio and digital video.