Today, we are faced with thousands of new technologies that can help us achieve incredible feats. From the medical field to the world of digital media, industries across the globe have benefited from these advanced technologies. When it comes to video production companies, there have been significant advancements that have given these establishments a chance to thrive in their industry. Everything from cameras to microphones and even software, the advancements have reached new heights that people 50 years ago would have never predicted. One of these technologies is the green screen.
A mysterious piece of equipment, the green screen has helped filmmakers create stunning visual effects that can greatly enhance a scene. Green screens are commonly used in news stations to help project an animated weather map, and in some cases, a digital news set. They have also become common amongst YouTubers, but video production companies still value this technology when it comes to film making. The question is, how do they work? Here is everything you need to know about how green screens create visual magic.
The Color is Crucial
You may be thinking, why Green? Why not red, purple or black? Well, green is used because it’s easy for modern cameras to pick up due to the color contrast, which gives the video editor the cleanest image possible. It’s also used because green has been shown to be one of the less common colors worn in clothing and as a result, the on-screen talent does not appear as if their heads are floating.
The Science Behind Chromakeying
Using a green screen is known as color making or chromakeying — the process of singling out a specific color in an electronic image. When video production companies utilize chromakeying, like green screens, they are able to use editing software to make the background color transparent. This then makes room for another image of your choosing to show through the now transparent background; an illusion is created in the background as the subject of the shot stands in front.
Going back to where green screens are most used, news stations use green screens to create a digital weather map. The meteorologist stands in front of the green screen, while producers use chromakeying to isolate the green screen. Then, using advanced editing software, they turn the green transparent to allow the image of a weather map to show through. The viewers then see the meteorologist appear in front of the digital weather map.
In the Film Industry
Video production companies use these green screens for more than just weather maps — they use green screens as an integral part of special effects in high-end Hollywood blockbusters. For example, in a superhero movie such as Superman, the actor may have to lie on their stomach in front of the green screen while a fan blows on them to give viewers the illusion that the actor is flying through Metropolis. The editing team then just has to chromakey the green screen to replace it with an image of the city.
Green screens are still one of the most popular and useful tools in the world of film, and properly using one can help elevate your videos beyond anything you’ve done in the past. For help creating your best video yet, contact a professional video production company like Fusion 360! We can help you with any of your video needs.
