Chroma Key or Backdrop?

Dan Sherman wrote on 10/28/2008, 2:38 PM
Client requires grey (lightish) background.
Is a grey backdrop the best option or can grey BG be successfully achieved by shooting against green screen and replacing grey with chroma key feature?
I've been experimenting with some old green screen shots, dropping in grey.
Am I right to think this is a bit iffy?
Is it my technique that needs some honing or does Vegas have limitations here?
Peabody

Comments

farss wrote on 10/28/2008, 2:57 PM
A grey background is definately the way to go if they want the shot with a grey background. What you see is instantly what you get, no futzing around. Rolls of grey backdrop paper can be bought at large photographic suppliers or there's plenty selling them on eBay.

Bob.
baysidebas wrote on 10/28/2008, 3:02 PM
On the other hand, if the grey isn't exactly what the client wants, or changes his/her mind altogether.... then green screen provides you with extensive options.
Cheno wrote on 10/28/2008, 4:02 PM
If you can do it practically and the client signs off on it, much less headache than greenscreen and the possibility of any issues that may arise because of that.


rs170a wrote on 10/28/2008, 4:08 PM
Go out to Wal-Mart or similar store and buy a few cheap king-size sheets in various shades of grey. It'll definitely work out better than a chroma-key and all it's issues.

Mike
richard-courtney wrote on 10/28/2008, 8:28 PM
IMHO: grey muslin backdrop is a standard.

It is perhaps the easiest backdrop to add a splash of color using gels.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/303021-REG/Botero_C02357__023_Collapsible_Background_.htmlLow cost Bottero[/link]

or http://www.fjwestcott.com/productcategorybkg.cfm?catname=backgroundsbetter quality Westcotts[/link].

I don't think you will be disappointed in this investment.

Dan Sherman wrote on 10/30/2008, 12:07 PM
Used the paper, made by Savage.
Outcome is good. Cleaner than keying.
But getting the darn paper back in the carton to transport from the location was a bit of a PITA.
For anyone has never hoisted a roll of this paper, a word to the wise. Clamp it or it will start rolling and rolling and rolling off the spool.
Had to rewind about 10 feet of paper.
At 107 inches long it's about 3 inches too high for the office cieling.
Muslin may be more expensive, but methinks easier to deal with and to transport and store.
JohnnyRoy wrote on 10/30/2008, 12:52 PM
> Muslin may be more expensive, but methinks easier to deal with and to transport and store.

I have a grey muslin backdrop that I use and it is by far the easiest approach. Hang it, light it, shoot it. You're done. Chroma key is more trouble than it's worth if the client already knows they want a grey background. There are just too many variables in shooting good chroma key and if you haven't done it before, on-the-job is NOT the time to learn.

~jr