Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: H.265 • Multi-cam • Bins

Chroma Key

Term from Video Editing industry explained for recruiters

Chroma Key is a common video editing technique where footage is shot against a solid-colored background (usually bright green or blue) so that background can be replaced with different images or videos later. You might know this better as "green screening." It's like making someone appear to be standing in front of the Eiffel Tower when they were actually filmed in a studio. This technique is essential in modern video production, from weather forecasts to Hollywood movies. When you see this term on a resume, it means the candidate has experience with video editing and compositing skills.

Examples in Resumes

Created over 50 commercial videos using Chroma Key and Green Screen techniques

Managed complex Chroma Key setups for live broadcast news segments

Trained junior editors in proper Green Screen and Chroma Key workflow practices

Typical job title: "Video Editors"

Also try searching for:

Video Editor Visual Effects Artist Compositing Artist Post-Production Specialist Multimedia Designer Broadcasting Technician Content Editor

Where to Find Video Editors

Online Communities

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle challenging green screen situations with poor lighting or uneven backgrounds?

Expected Answer: A senior editor should explain troubleshooting techniques like adjusting spill suppression, working with multiple keys, and using garbage mattes to improve difficult footage. They should mention the importance of proper shooting conditions and how to salvage problematic footage.

Q: Can you describe a complex chroma key project you managed and how you ensured quality results?

Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, team coordination, establishing standards for footage quality, and quality control processes. Should mention handling client expectations and timeline management.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What software do you use for chroma keying and what are the key features you look for?

Expected Answer: Should be able to name major editing software (like Adobe Premiere, After Effects) and explain basic features like spill suppression, edge refinement, and color selection tools.

Q: How do you ensure consistent lighting and color matching between green screen footage and background plates?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic color correction techniques, matching lighting direction and intensity, and how to maintain realism in final composites.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between green and blue screen, and when would you use each?

Expected Answer: Should explain that green is most common because digital cameras are more sensitive to green, while blue might be better when subjects wear green clothing. Basic understanding of color channels is expected.

Q: What are the basic steps to achieve a good chroma key effect?

Expected Answer: Should describe the basic workflow: proper lighting setup, even background color, selecting the key color, refining edges, and basic compositing with new background.