Translating Photography Website into German
Translating Photography Website into German…
Hold a photograph. Look at it. It speaks many languages. In fact, all. Or maybe it just speaks one language. A language we can all understand regardless of our mother tongue. Like a painting, you do not need any set of words to be moved by a photo, to be in awe of it, for something about it to resonate with you.
I speak German. You speak English. Through photography, we can connect, talk without moving our lips, over something we both admire: that particular framed photo on the wall of that museum, or the sepia-toned one with the dog-eared corners.
Photography becomes the common ground, the mediator, the silent diplomat.
When translating a photography website into German, the photos on display can usually take care of themselves. However, if there’s any text on the site, then that would need to be translated to German in order to communicate the text with the intended target audience. Information such as the photographer’s bio and services offered would have to be translated so that the end user can take a step forward should they wish to make a purchase, for instance, or attend an exhibition of the photographer’s work.
Particular things to bear in mind before any website translations is to ensure that one has a full grasp (or understanding) of the initial text. You’re being entrusted to translate it correctly, embodying the intention as well as the emotions of the original words as much as possible. If the photographer cannot speak a word of German, they’re relying on you to maintain the utmost level of accuracy and integrity when translating. It would be pretty embarrassing to assume that you have a block of translation down to a tee only to realise that, actually, you don’t. Consider yourself to be a constant learner. Do your research. If you think you know a word, double check it just to make sure, even if it’s just to give yourself the satisfaction that you’re actually quite good!
The German translation of the photography site should flow as naturally as possible. Ironically, it shouldn’t read as if it has been translated at all. There is an art and a science to it and when you’ve achieved that balance, you will know. If you’re reading through the completed translation and your eyes pause on a word, then you’re not done.
When you do have your final translated version ready, ensure that you proofread it thoroughly. It goes without saying, really. Un-proofread text in any language – especially for a paid service - just doesn’t look very professional and lets you and the client down. It might also affect potential customers who might visit the site - they might be put off by the visible spelling and grammatical mistakes and move on.
Last of all, it might be an idea to test the site on a small select number of German speakers - a cross section - before it goes live. The feedback you receive from them might prove to be invaluable.