5
Introduction
The Standard Definition Datavideo DVK-200 has many advanced features which can give excellent results
even from less than perfect Chroma Key setups.
Please read these advisory notes before using the DVK-200 as the camera, backdrop and lighting setups all
play an important role in producing the best result. Although the DVK-200 is equipped with excellent edge
controls it is always best to start with the best keyable image your setup is able to produce.
We would strongly recommend the use of a three chip (3 CCD) camera for chroma effect shooting. The extra
image clarity that a three chip camera produces greatly improves the quality of the keying. It is also best to
use Component (YUV) and S-Video (Y/C) cables wherever possible. These cables allow better colour
separation than a Composite video cable or signal, and again this greatly improves the quality of the keying.
Backdrops
There are many different possibilities when it comes to setting up a Chroma Key Studio.
In a permanent set up the use of Green Screen or Blue Screen Paint is ideal. Painting a wall is the cheapest
way of producing a Green or Blue backdrop and there are several suppliers of specialist backdrop paint
which is exactly the right shade and texture for keying purposes.
For a less permanent arrangement cloth is an excellent option. Again there are specialist manufacturers
producing Green and Blue Screen cloth which is the right shade and texture to give excellent keying results.
Cloth is quick to setup, and roll away, and is far more durable than paper. Cloth is also less likely to fade than
paper, and generally gives far better performance. It is important to ensure there are no creases or folds in
the backdrop as these may produce areas of uneven lighting.
Another alternative well worth considering is a Retro Reflective Cloth Backdrop, such as the Datavideo
RF1225FP. Retro Reflective Backdrops are used in conjunction with LED Light Rings that mount onto the
lens of the camera, such as the Datavideo CKL-200. The unique properties of the backdrop will allow you to
get away with having the odd crease line, and the whole system is quick to set up. If you are looking for a
portable system you will be hard pushed to beat the LED Light Ring / Retro Reflective Cloth combination.
White Balance
White Balance is extremely important when setting up a chroma key studio. The camera must be correctly
white balanced to prevent the subject picking up any colour cast from the background. Of course the white
balance settings will vary according to the type of lighting you are using, but neutral whites are the all
important target.
To set the white balance you will need a white reference card (or a sheet of white paper). Focus the camera
on the reference card and light it evenly using the main light. Set the cameras iris / aperture so that the card
is correctly exposed. Use the Auto White Balance function, or set the white balance manually so that the
card appears white. If in any doubt about how to white balance your camera, please refer to your camera
instruction manual for details.