gg's "interview" with a professional anime translator

[Darksage]

Fansubbing group gg (http://www.ggkthx.org/) recently sent fan-submitted questions to a contact of theirs who is a translator that works on streamed anime. The questions covered a range of topics, including the quality of professional and fan-made translations, the future of streaming and simulcasting, what it's like to be a professional translator and how to become one, and how both professional and fan-made subs are affecting the industry.

The full 'interview' can be read here (http://www.ggkthx.org/2010/01/08/responses-from-sam/#more-1415). Be sure to share your thoughts about it.

[Void]

Hah... doing some translations in my free time for a subbing group for a few shows that I like would be really nice but making a living out of it ?

I don't know... Its not really the money actually. 20$/H is an ok amount to live with especially if u like doing what u do, but all the rush just to translate some weird bi-shonen yaoi drama that u absolutely do not want to eave watch one episode of, not to mention having to watch it 5 times in slow motion while debating with yourself in front of the mirror if it would be more appropriate to use private part, d*ck or penis ?
You get the picture don't you lolz ? :P

Anyway, putting the choice of the show factor aside, are there that many people out there that would actually want to be pro translators ? I for instance would hate having to translate something boring and when I say boring I don't mean a boring show but actually something that isn't related to anime or manga... >.<

[Hellspire]

Uh, well as I'm fluent in japanese I don't really think it would be that mind numbing. i wouldn't make it a career though.

but as to liking or not liking what you have to translate, what does that have to do with your job? after all, translators in real life aren't asked for an opinion but for a 1:1 translation on the fly.

[DarkMagicianGrl]

I would guess it's a normal job. Not everyone loves what they do. Many people don't like every aspect of their job, but it's something they're good at/qualified for/can get hired for. If you're lucky enough to enjoy your job...take it and run with it.