Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Drop Frame • EDL • Vectorscope

Chroma Key

Term from Editing industry explained for recruiters

Chroma Key is a technique used in video production and film making where subjects are filmed against a solid-colored background (usually bright green or blue) which is then replaced with different images or videos. You might know this better as "green screening." It's commonly used in weather forecasts, movies, and online content creation. When you see job candidates mention this skill, they're indicating they can film footage properly against these backgrounds and edit the footage to seamlessly add new backgrounds.

Examples in Resumes

Created engaging video content using Chroma Key and Green Screen techniques for corporate training videos

Managed Chroma Key setups for live broadcast news segments

Edited over 200 YouTube videos utilizing Green Screen and Chroma Key effects

Typical job title: "Video Editors"

Also try searching for:

Video Editor Content Creator Post-Production Specialist Visual Effects Editor Broadcasting Technician Film Editor Digital Media Specialist

Where to Find Video Editors

Online Communities

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle challenging chroma key situations like with fine hair or transparent objects?

Expected Answer: A senior editor should explain different techniques for dealing with complex edges, including rotoscoping, multiple keys, and color spill reduction. They should mention specific tools and workflows they've used successfully.

Q: Describe a complex chroma key project you managed and any problems you solved.

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate project management skills, problem-solving abilities, and advanced knowledge of both shooting and post-production techniques.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What lighting setup do you use for chroma key shooting?

Expected Answer: Should explain the importance of even lighting on the green screen, separation between subject and background, and basic three-point lighting concepts for the subject.

Q: What software do you use for chroma keying and why?

Expected Answer: Should be able to compare different software options (like After Effects, Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve) and explain their strengths for different situations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is color spill and how do you fix it?

Expected Answer: Should understand that color spill is when the green screen reflects onto the subject and know basic tools to remove this effect in editing software.

Q: What makes a good vs bad green screen setup?

Expected Answer: Should mention proper lighting, wrinkle-free background, appropriate distance between subject and screen, and proper exposure basics.