Video Tutorial - How to Create Awesome Chromakey Effects

Click the link above for a how to video

Here are the 2 most common problems when using a chromakey backdrop:

1. Uneven backdrop lighting
2. Reflected spill onto the foreground subject.

Here is how we recommend you set up your lighting.

Step 1  -  Light The Chromakey Backdrop:
When lighting a chromakey backdrop, you want the lighting on the backdrop to be as evenly as
possible, with no shadows.
Your backdrop lights should be behind the foreground subject.

Step 2 - Light The Foreground Subject:
You will want to light the subject with its own set of lights.
You want as much separation between the foreground subject and the chromakey backdrop as
possible.
The more separation you have between the foreground subject and the chromakey backdrop, the
better.
This reduces the chance of the foreground shadows hitting the chromakey backdrop. It will help
minimizes the "blue or green fringe" from light that is reflected off the chromakey backdrop. (called
reflective spill)

Step 3 - Neutralize Any Color-Cast
To neutralize any color-cast from light reflected off the backing. I use a soft back-light from each side
to light up each side of the foreground subject, helping to neutralizing the reflected spill from the
chromakey backdrop.

Note If you take the time to light your foreground and chromakey backdrop correctly. No "blue or
green fringe" on the object or the persons clothing, hair or skin, then even the most basic
chromakey hardware or software will give you good results.

Rules For A Good Key

Make sure your lighting is even and well balanced on the chromakey backdrop
Shoot with the iris of your camera at full open
Keep the subject as far forward of the chromakey backdrop as possible
Light the subject separately
Prevent shadows from hitting the chromakey backdrop
Make sure the subject does not contain the same color as your chromakey backdrop!