Michael Achtman

I’m a London-based filmmaker, audio describer and access consultant specialising in film, video and visual art.
I create audio description for narrative and documentary film, artists’ moving image, exhibitions, installations, public artworks and digital content. I can provide an audio description script, narration and recording, or manage the complete process through to a finished edited and mixed soundtrack.
When another voice would better suit the work, I can help cast and direct an appropriate narrator. I can also arrange consultation and feedback with blind and partially sighted colleagues, or collaborate with consultants already involved in a project.
My background as a filmmaker informs the way I approach description. I begin with established audio description practice while responding to the form, tone, rhythm, sound and intentions of the work itself. Depending on the project, the result may be conventional and unobtrusive, creative and integrated, or somewhere between the two.
My work has encompassed film, visual art, theatre, dance, live performance and digital projects for clients and collaborators including Outside In, Bristol Beacon, Candoco Dance Company, Royal Court Theatre, New Wolsey Theatre, Diverse City, Artsadmin, Drake Music, filmpro, Dresden FilmFest and Accessible Film Festival in Ankara.
I also design and deliver practical workshops in audio description, accessible filmmaking and creative approaches to access.
I work with clients throughout the UK and internationally, remotely and on location. '
If you are developing a film, video, exhibition or artwork, please contact me to discuss the project.