Definition
A lower third is a supplementary graphic in the lower area of the screen that adds context — most often a person's name and role — while the main footage keeps playing. In broadcast it may also be called a chyron, from the Chyron character-generator brand. Clear hierarchy, contrast, and readable timing matter more than a particular animation style. For HD broadcast, EBU R95's graphics-safe area is the central 90% of picture width and height, leaving 5% at each edge; follow the actual delivery specification. For vertical social video, platform UI, captions, and cropping vary by destination, placement, and device, so preview each version rather than relying on one fixed safe zone or simply moving every graphic higher. An on-screen hold of 4-7 seconds can be a starting point, but text length and audience reading needs should determine the duration.
How Loopdesk Uses This
In a Loopdesk edit, use speaker information to plan where an introduction belongs, and verify names and roles yourself. Check which lower-third templates, timing controls, and placement tools are currently available rather than assuming automatic first-appearance placement or platform-safe repositioning. Preview horizontal and vertical exports against their destination overlays.
Introduce speakers clearly
Explore Loopdesk's current title tools, then check names, readability, timing, and placement for each destination.
Try LoopdeskFrequently Asked Questions
What is a lower third?
A lower third is a text graphic in the lower part of the frame that identifies a speaker, place or topic — usually a name and title. Broadcasters also call it a chyron. Keep it inside title-safe margins and, on vertical video, above the platform's caption and button area.
What is the difference between a lower third and a caption?
A lower third adds identifying context, such as a person's name and role. Captions represent speech and relevant non-speech audio for accessibility. They can appear together, so check that neither obscures the other or essential footage, and account for the destination's interface overlays.
How long should a lower third stay on screen?
Use 4-7 seconds as a starting point, not a rule. Keep the text fully visible long enough for the intended audience to read it comfortably, allowing for length, language, screen size, and any entrance or exit animation. Short-form pacing should not make the text unreadable.
Related Keywords
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Related Terms
Speaker Detection (Speaker Diarization)
AI's ability to identify and distinguish between different speakers in audio and video content.
Auto-Generated Captions (Auto Subtitles)
AI-powered speech-to-text technology that automatically generates synchronized captions and subtitles for video content.
Keyframe
A marker that stores a property's value at a specific time; values between keyframes can be interpolated to animate a change.
Vertical Video
Video content recorded or formatted in a 9:16 portrait aspect ratio, optimized for mobile-first platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.