Green screen technology is a method used widely in the films we see today, from action films like the 300 to romantic comedies like 500 Days of Summer. You may think the scenes were shot in location but in fact, they were simply computer generated and shot in a green screen studio. They look realistic huh?
Let me break that down for you, green screen or chroma-key involves merging two images together. Once the background color of first image is removed, the second image behind it will then serve as the final backdrop. This backdrop can be virtually anything, a beach setting or even something created in your imagination. There practically no boundaries with this.
Established video production companies integrate this into their system with the use of large green backdrops, expensive lighting equipment and experienced editors and producers but actually, if you have the right skills and knowledge regarding this process, you can certainly pull it off yourself.
Now, this article will guide you with the primary "don'ts" just to make sure you've got the basics right. If you fail with the A-B-C's, trust me; you'll get nowhere.
1. Lighting
One of the biggest concerns you will face in producing seamless videos is always lighting. The excess or the lack of it will dictate the success of your material. The placements of the light sources must be precise. Lighting must be evened out since you have to avoid any shadows on the green set.
Shadows will give of a dark cast over your final output. Remember, it takes more than good lighting to avoid your project from looking like some horror film.
2. Think Ahead
How do you imagine the final product background? You must envision the video as a whole. Think of the background as well as the artists who will participate. The more planning and vision you start with, the more cohesive your work will be in the end.
3. Distance
Have your actors stay at least 10 feet away from the background. This will lessen color spills.
4. Clothing
Alright, once we've got the background cleared. Let's proceed with the on-screen talent. All greens, khaki's and brown are no-no's. They have a tendency to become transparent in the final picture. Patterns need to be avoided as well.
5. Props
Every video production needs props but steer clear from any reflective or shiny objects. These will reflect the green color and just like number 4, they may turn out transparent.
Alright, so those are only 5 tips but believe me, keep those things checked and you'll be on your way to producing amazing videos.
Andrew James is a production at Salt Lake City Studio - the go-to company for video production in Salt Lake City, Utah. The company also offers green screen studio rental and other facilities and services.
No comments:
Post a Comment