VideoGLOSSARY

Keying — Luma / Chroma

01 — Definition

The compositing technique that makes part of an image transparent so a background shows through. Chroma key removes a specific colour — typically green or blue — provided the lighting is even and the subject is well separated from the screen. Luma key removes areas by brightness instead: white text over video, black backgrounds. A poorly lit green screen gives spill and ragged edges that no keyer can fully rescue.

02 — In the field

Light the green screen evenly, separately from the talent, and keep the subject at least 2 m off the screen to reduce green spill. Do the lighting first: a clean key is 90% lighting and 10% software.