Hi all,

Is it possible via Macpro/FCPX to have a live green screen like they have on the weather. I'd like to use the live view to test lighting etc. So if I could preview the green screen live, then I could make adjustments.

I found the Wirecast software, but I was wondering if I can do live keying/overlay in FCPX. Also found this. http://www.dvdxdv.com/NewFolderLookSite/VeeScope/Products/VeescopeLive.try.htm


Thanks in advance.

No. Final Cut Pro is an edit system, it does not do live video output. You would have to capture, edit, render, and export.

To do live chroma keying, you need to use a switcher. Either a computer-based solution like Wirecast or Tricaster, or a standalone system like Blackmagic's ATEM switchers, or something more professional like Ross or Grass Valley.

Either you import test footage into FCPX to see how it's working or you get into a complex set-up. The simplest would be to get a low cost HDMI/SDI to Thunderbolt converter, the Blackmagic Designs UltraStudio MiniRecorder is one I am familiar with. I use this for live webcasts with chromakey using the Wirecast Studio for YouTube Pro version. You can use it (maybe the free version as well) to check the key. If the key works there you know it will work in FCPX later during editing.

BlackMagic Designs has free video recorder software for recording high quality video directly to your computer but it doesn't have chroma key. These files will be better for complex keys but they will be much larger than the files out of your camera.

Thanks William and Ed. I just built a studio and am pretty excited about the video capabilities. I want to do talking head commercials in it.

Hey Steven,

If you have or can get ahold of one of the modern LCD monitors like those from Marshall that have a "False color" display mode, it's super easy to set up chroma key backgrounds using it.

Just put the monitor into false color mode and adjust the lighting until the lighting yields a solid color across the green screen.

Then bring in the subject and light them separately.

You can check to see if your subject lighting has spill on the GS, and if not, you're good to go.

I seldom even use a picture any more to set up my green screen shots.

FWIW.

I think I'm going to buy this and see how it goes.

Blackmagic Design UltraStudio Mini Recorder BDLKULSDZMINREC B&H

The BH dude said I could get this, Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio Production SWATEMTVSTU

but that's a mortgage payment lol.