NC #969 Mac Tiny Tips Part 8, OCR PDFs with Open Source Software on a Mac, Alt Text on Images with Tom Mattock
Dec 4, 2023
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Tom Mattock, an expert in alt text on images in social media, discusses the importance of alt text for visually impaired individuals and the challenges of accurately describing images. The speakers also explore using AI technology for analyzing and describing images, overcoming challenges with cerebral palsy, and the issue of captions not sticking to iPhone photos.
Adding alt text to images helps make online content more accessible to visually impaired individuals.
Creating an OCR shell script involves steps such as assigning variables, extracting directory and file names, and concatenating output file names.
Alt text provides a more inclusive online experience, expands audience reach, and helps blind individuals engage with visual content.
Deep dives
Using Be My Eyes for Image Description
Be My Eyes is an iPhone app that allows users to receive descriptions for images. By sharing a photo with the app, Be My Eyes will use AI to analyze the image and provide a detailed description of what's in the picture. This can be helpful in adding more context and richness to alt text descriptions.
Tips for Writing Alt Text
When writing alt text, it's important to consider what jumps out at you when first looking at the picture. Describe the main subject matter, any unique or standout elements, and the location if relevant. Imagine describing the photo to someone over the phone and focus on conveying why the image is interesting or significant.
Addressing the Effort in Adding Alt Text
While adding alt text may require extra effort, it helps provide accessibility for visually impaired individuals, allowing them to understand the content of images. Adding alt text contributes to a more inclusive online experience and ensures that information is accessible to all users.
Creating an OCR Shell Script
The podcast episode discusses the process of creating an OCR (optical character recognition) shell script. The host explains how to write the script step by step. The first step is to assign a variable name to the input file by using the argument $1. The directory name is then extracted from the input file using the built-in command 'dirname'. The next step involves extracting the file name without the extension using the 'basename' command. Finally, the output file name is created by concatenating the directory name, input file name without the extension, and additional text '-ocr.pdf'. The host concludes by encouraging listeners to try out the script by following the provided instructions.
Enhancing Accessibility with Alt Text
In the second part of the podcast, the host discusses the importance of adding alt text to images for accessibility purposes. The guest, Tom Madic, who is blind, offers insights and tips on creating effective alt text. He emphasizes the positive impact it has on blind individuals when alt text is provided, allowing them to better understand and engage with visual content. The host also highlights the value of alt text in expanding the audience reach and encourages listeners to consider adopting alt text in their social media posts and other online content.
