In the previous blog post, we explored the art of translating Adobe design files. But there are many images with text – like product packaging, marketing materials, and website banners – that are uneditable .jpg or .png files. These are powerful tools for reaching international audiences, but businesses operating across borders, the challenge arises: how to effectively translate the text within these images while preserving their visual impact?

This blog delves into the process of translating images with text with the assumption that the source design file is unavailable. If you have the InDesign, Illustrator, or Photoshop files, check out our Adobe Creative Suite blog here. step breakdown for translation companies to ensure a seamless experience for their clients.I

Step 1: Extracting Text with Optical Character Recognition (OCR)

The journey begins with extracting the text embedded within the image. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology bridges the gap between image and text, acting like a digital eye that "reads" the characters.

Here are some key considerations for successful OCR:

• Image Quality: Blurry, pixelated, or poorly lit images can significantly impact OCR accuracy. High-resolution originals are ideal, but experienced professionals can often achieve good results even with less than perfect images.

• Font Type and Size: OCR struggles with unusual or stylized fonts, as well as very small text. Choosing a translation service that can handle a variety of fonts and sizes is crucial.

• Language Detection: If the source language is unknown, an accurate detection system within the OCR software ensures the translation process starts on the right foot.

At your translation company, the process might involve running the image through specialized OCR software. This software meticulously analyzes the image, recognizing individual characters and converting them into a text file.

Step 2: Preparing the Text for Translation

The raw text extracted from the image might contain errors or inconsistencies due to OCR limitations. Here's where human intervention becomes essential:

• Proofreading and Editing: A skilled linguist meticulously reviews the extracted text, correcting any errors introduced by the OCR process. This ensures the source text for translation is accurate and reflects the intended message.

• Formatting: The extracted text might be a simple string of characters without proper formatting. The linguist might need to segment the text into paragraphs, headings, and bullet points, replicating the original layout for consistency.

• Terminology Management: If the image contains industry-specific terms or brand messaging, a glossary or style guide can be used to ensure consistent translation throughout the project.

By creating a clean and well-structured Word document, you prepare the text for seamless integration into your translation workflow.

Step 3: Translation Using a CAT Tool

Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools are the workhorses of the translation industry. These software programs leverage translation memories (TMs) – databases of previously translated phrases – to improve efficiency and consistency.

Here's how a CAT tool streamlines the translation process for images with text:

• Segmentation: The CAT tool can segment the text from the Word document into manageable units, often corresponding to sentences or paragraphs. This allows translators to work on smaller pieces, improving accuracy and focus.

• Leveraging Translation Memories: If your company has previously translated similar content, the CAT tool can automatically suggest matches from the TM. This reduces workload for translators while ensuring consistency with past projects.

• Terminology Management: Terminology management features within the CAT tool allow for consistent translation of industry-specific terms or brand names. This ensures the translated text maintains the original meaning and brand voice.

Using a CAT tool empowers your team to translate the extracted text efficiently and accurately, while maintaining a consistent voice and terminology throughout the project.

Step 4: Visual Integration – Rebuilding the Image

Once the text is translated, the magic happens – integrating the translated text back into the original image. Here's where your company's graphic design expertise comes into play:

• Recreating the Image: A skilled graphic designer uses tools like Photoshop to recreate the image. This might involve creating new text boxes with the translated text, ensuring proper font style and size to match the original design.

• Maintaining Visual Appeal: The designer meticulously aligns the translated text within the image layout, preserving the original visual balance and aesthetics. This ensures the translated image looks natural and conveys the intended message effectively.

• Painting Out Source Text: In some cases, the original text might be visible behind the translated text. The designer skillfully uses editing tools to "paint out" the source text, creating a seamless final product.

This final step requires a keen eye for detail and design expertise. Your graphic designer ensures the translated image retains the visual impact of the original, while effectively communicating the message in the target language.

A Collaborative Approach for Flawless Results

Translating images with text is a collaborative process that leverages technology and human expertise. By combining OCR software, meticulous human editing, CAT tool efficiency, and graphic design finesse, your translation company can deliver flawless results that resonate with international audiences.