How to set a background

[d912mv]

Hi,

I have just received my tricaster and am playing around with backgrounds.

We have create some JPGs, flash videos and avi movies to be displayed as backgrounds. How do we do this? I can't see the obvious method to use LiveMatte and set the background as a custom creative rather than a virtual set. Is that possible?

Also, we want to create a custom game show virtual set. Can anyone recommend a good set builder for me?

Cheers
Dan

[SBowie]

On most TC models (you don't mention which one you have), the simplest way to display a background behind a camera that has LiveMatte enabled is to put the bg in a DDR (or Stills, where appropriate), and select that module on the Switcher's Effects row. The shortcoming of this approach is that when you switch from one camera to the next, the bg selected on Effects doesn't change with it - it stays the same.

Using a LiveSet with an embedded background allows you to switch from a camera with one background to a different camera angle with a different backround to match, and does so without tying up the DDR. (The LiveSet menu also contains a group named Utilities with some Matte effects that can mimic the use of Effects above, but provides a few options.)

[d912mv]

Hi Steve,

Thanks for the reply. I have the TC Pro. I'm really enjoying the functionality and can't believe how simple it is to set up and use.

I can set an image or DDR in the effects row although how do i set that effect as the background. Would i select the relevant input in the 'input setup' options, select livematte and do it in there?

I have had a good play around with the livesets. Is there any software to edit them easily? (or is that a specialist job?)

Thanks again,

Dan

[SBowie]

I can set an image or DDR in the effects row although how do i set that effect as the background. Would i select the relevant input in the 'input setup' options, select livematte and do it in there?If the Main/Program row is a primary source (Cam, DDR, iVGA, Stills) has LiveMatte enabled, whatever is selected on Effects will show through as the BG automatically.

Otherwsie, you can set it up using the Utilities>Matte options as mentioned earlier.

I have had a good play around with the livesets. Is there any software to edit them easily? (or is that a specialist job?)There's a sub-forum devoted to LiveSets, and the topic has come up quite a bit, so maybe take time to do a little reading there (and save me typing a whole bunch during my lunchtime), k...? Sorry, hungy! ;)