Beginning with plain paintings and moving to CGI environments, cinematic technologies have changed the approach and possibilities drastically. Filmmakers choose green screen vs LED wall — the leading techniques in virtual production. Both perform perfectly, but for different cases. Learn when to use a green screen or an LED stage for film to guarantee the best outcomes!
With green screen technology, or chromakey compositing, in use, filmmakers shoot actors in front of a solid green background. During post-production, the specialists replace it with virtual sets in filmmaking or any other footage.
To exploit chromakey, you set a background of a specific color (green or blue, as usual). Then you render it transparent and replace it with new visuals behind the main subject. The success of the technique depends on even lighting to avoid shadows or color spill. They can complicate the post-production and worsen the results.
Although green screen is a budget-friendly variant, prepare to invest in the necessary equipment. Here is the basic set:
Apart from the named gears and tools, you may need other add-ons depending on your project. This may include motion tracking markers, prompting monitors, green screen apps, and more.
There are no specific limitations on when to use a chromakey. Commonly, creators exploit it in the following cases:
In virtual production comparison green screen takes place as an affordable solution. Yet, you should apply a careful approach and necessary technologies for the desired results.
An LED wall, or an LED volume, stands for a setup of high-resolution LED panels arranged to create a real-time VFX and digital environment. LED wall filmmaking grants you a dynamic, immersive background. The content behind the real-life action moves in sync with the camera. This delivers parallax and depth and creates a perfect illusion of reality.
LED volumes create an immersive cinematic experience thanks to the latest technologies applied. This is the reason why the technique costs so much. Check out the most commonly used technologies below:
The camera tracks the movement, sends the data to the game engine. The latter unites it with the background to create a realistic and complete result.
You may think that LED screens are best for science fiction and fantasy creations. But the examples of use go beyond that. Review the top popular ones below:
An LED wall is a perfect solution for you in two cases. If you are filming a sci-fi or any other piece with unnatural environments. And you are ready to invest in LED equipment.
As a popular choice, chroma keying in virtual production has its advantages and disadvantages. You’d better explore before going for a green screen over digital backdrops. This can help you to make the right choice for your specific project.
Green screen offers budget-friendly and adjustable solutions for beginners in the field. Those with basic needs in filmmaking and repeated performance can also benefit. The reasons to go for chromakey are as follows:
This is the perfect variant to start your career as a cinematic content creator at a low risk for lack of skills and funds.
Along with a range of perks, beware of green screen pitfalls. Lack of preparation and awareness can make you vulnerable to possible risks and extra tasks. Review the main disadvantages to get ready to overcome them:
Green screen is an affordable and flexible choice with a heavy post-production focus.
Selecting LED virtual backgrounds for film, you are going to pay a lot for the equipment. The crew's qualifications mean a lot, too. Study all its pros and cons before choosing green screen vs LED volume and preferring the latter option.
LED walls have pushed filmmaking experience far beyond previous possibilities. With the completeness and genuineness they deliver, creators may now embody their boldest ideas. It all becomes possible with the following advantages of LED walls:
With its major perks, LED screens are not only used for imaginative backgrounds. They are also suitable for any project with enough budget to create high-end results.
Being quite costly doesn’t mean that LED walls are ideal for all cases. Specific limitations and pitfalls make this variant only suitable for certain creations. Here are some disadvantages that can create challenges during the filmmaking process:
Although LED walls are a costly option, they deliver more realistic and higher-end cinematic results.
Bear in mind all the pros and cons of both variants. This makes it easier for you to choose between a virtual production LED wall and chromakey compositing.
For low-budget projects, green screen is a preferred choice. It is the best variant for cost-effective productions. They require background alterations and adding effects during post-production. In contrast, LED walls are suitable for sci-fi and high-realistic productions. Realistic lighting, immersive sets, and in-camera VFX are crucial for them, making an LED volume a recommended option.
If you cannot choose between green screen and LED wall and treasure the perks of both options, go for a hybrid approach. This often means using LEDs in close-up and key scenes. While chromakey is better for wider shots or parts that require more work in post-production.
You cannot predict whether green screen filmmaking will outweigh LED volumes or vice versa. But following the trends may optimize virtual production. Here are the top valued ones:
Virtual production is getting more accessible for less experienced specialists. Now you can air more impressive results using the right tools in the right place.
Green screen and LED wall filmmaking techniques are dominant in virtual production. They both have their pros and cons, but serve perfectly in specific cases. If you are after a low-budget solution and ready for decent post-production work, chromakey is your preferred option. An LED volume is a recommendation for in-field professionals aiming at real-time VFX and high-end cinematic results. Mind your budget, team skills, and the needs of your project to make the best suitable choice easily.
The choice depends on what you aim at. Green screens are for low-budget and flexible projects. LED walls are better suited for immersive visuals and real-time effects.
LED volumes make it possible to apply in-camera effects, natural interaction between action and environments, and seamless lighting.
Yes, if your budget allows a costly solution. If you don’t expect background alteration in post-production, an LED wall is a good replacement that guarantees an immersive experience.
