Tools of the Trade | Cycloramas
/As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry, providing top-tier soundstages and distinctive locations where productions shoot their scenes. In this series, we take a closer look at some of the unique tools and settings used to make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight into what it takes to make film and TV magic. This week, we look at a cyclorama, a seamless backdrop creating infinite space for stunning visual effects.
What is a Cyclorama? Explore Broadway Stages' Cutting-Edge Studio Solutions
Read on to learn about cycloramas and how Broadway Stages' state-of-the-art facilities help filmmakers create stunning visuals for productions.
What Is a Cyclorama?
A Cyclorama
Creating visually stunning scenes in film and television production often requires innovative tools. One such tool is the cyclorama, also known as a "cyc." A cyclorama is a large, curved backdrop that eliminates visible edges, perfect for creating smooth, unbroken backgrounds. This setup is commonly used in studios to give the illusion of endless space.
Cycloramas have a long history of use in various creative projects. In commercials, they're often used for car advertisements, where the seamless background makes the vehicle appear to float. Music videos also rely on cycloramas to create bold, minimalist looks that focus attention on the artist.
Key Features of a Cyclorama
Cycloramas typically have four main characteristics:
● Curved Design: The walls and floor meet in smoothly rounded corners, a technique called coved construction. This eliminates sharp angles and shadows, helping to create an infinite look.
● Material: Cycloramas can be made from fabric, wood, or plaster, depending on the studio's needs.
● Color: They are usually painted in neutral shades like white, gray, or chroma key green/blue. These colors make it easy to adjust lighting or add effects in post-production.
● Lighting: Even lighting is essential for cycloramas. They are often lit from above or below to maintain a consistent, flat background.
How Cycloramas Are Used
Cycloramas are more than just backdrops — they're essential tools for visual storytelling. Their seamless design allows filmmakers and artists to create captivating visuals by manipulating space and light.
● Infinite Backgrounds: Cycloramas are ideal for creating the illusion of endless space. Whether it's a fashion photoshoot, a commercial, or an interview, their smooth backdrop keeps the focus on the subject and eliminates distractions.
● Green Screen (Chroma Keying): When painted green or blue, cycloramas double as green screens. This allows filmmakers to replace the background with digital environments, from futuristic cityscapes to outer space.
● Special Effects: Cycloramas are invaluable for productions requiring heavy visual effects. Their seamless surface makes it easier to add digital elements without visible edges or inconsistencies.
● Sky or Horizon Simulation: Cycloramas often simulate skies or horizons. When painted white and evenly lit, they create a stunning effect of endless space, commonly seen in music videos and films.
● Versatile Scene Design: Cycloramas are incredibly adaptable. With creative lighting and set dressing, they can transform into walls, projection screens, or abstract spaces, offering endless possibilities for production teams.
Resources About Cycloramas
By understanding the features and uses of cycloramas, filmmakers and content creators can unlock new creative possibilities in their projects. To learn more about cycloramas and their uses, check out these resources:
● StudioBinder: "What's a Cyclorama? How Can Cyc Walls Help My Shot?" This article explains cycloramas, their history, and their role in modern productions.
● PremiumBeat: "Learn How to Create a Timeless Look on a White Cyclorama," A guide offering tips on lighting a white cyclorama for professional video projects.
● Ovation Lights: "Illuminating the Stage: A Guide to Cyclorama Lights" This resource explores the types of lighting used for cycloramas and how to achieve uniform backgrounds.
The Cycloramas at Broadway Stages
The cycloramas at Broadway Stages offer filmmakers and content creators an unmatched backdrop for crafting stunning visuals. These curved screens provide a seamless, immersive environment, allowing limitless creative possibilities, from replicating natural landscapes to creating futuristic worlds. Designed for productions of all sizes, the cycloramas ensure smooth lighting transitions and eliminate visual distractions, saving time and costs in post-production. Broadway Stages delivers state-of-the-art facilities and professional support, making it the ideal choice for bringing your vision to life. Whether you're filming commercials, music videos, or feature films, the cycloramas at Broadway Stages elevate the quality of any production. Contact us today to find out more!
Whether it's a play, film, or commercial, cycloramas are essential for creating stunning, immersive environments that captivate audiences. These large, curved backdrops help transform any production by offering a seamless and expansive background. Broadway Stages' state-of-the-art cycloramas are perfect for a variety of settings, from serene landscapes to dramatic cityscapes, providing endless possibilities for visual storytelling. With the ability to change colors, lighting, and scenery, a cyclorama allows directors and designers to bring their creative visions to life like never before. We're proud to offer these versatile spaces to help productions look their best, no matter the size or scale. When you choose Broadway Stages, you choose a dynamic canvas that elevates your production to new heights!
One of New York’s largest and most trusted full-service studio production companies, offering comprehensive services for film, television, live streaming, commercials, live performances, music videos, and more. With over 40 years of experience, we’ve become a cornerstone of New York’s thriving creative industry.
With more than 60 soundstages spanning across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, Broadway Stages offers over 4 million square feet of state-of-the-art production space, including soundstages, support space, distinctive filming locations, parking, and in-house services for lighting, power, and grip rentals. We provide tailored solutions for productions of all sizes, delivering the resources and expertise needed to meet your creative and technical needs.
Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information and links to put you in touch with industry-focused job posting sites; general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.
