Hey all,

I currently have an inquiry that I have not been able to find a definite answer for yet on the interest, so thought I would ask the question just to get hopefully a better answer.

I read the FAQ and it said a light background is suggested for best results.

I have just been confirmed access to a proper workspace that is a great size for a 4 Camera PS3 Eye setup, has decent lighting etc. if I can confirm in the next week if I can use it. Only problem is the walls and floor are pure black. Does anyone know if this will work at all or if I should look for an alternate location.

I currently cannot test as I do not have the tripods or cables yet, however already have the four PS3 Eyes which I know work with the laptop.

Only want to order the extra stuff when I really need it, plus the workspace is currently being used for the next 6 weeks for daily plays, so has audience seating and a train carriage set in the middle on it.

Would anyone have experience with working with black rooms, and if it will work? If not will have to let the venue know that I cannot use the space and will look for another option.



Thanks heaps.

The following info not official, it's just based on my 'unscientific' observations from shooting in a few different environments.

The problem with black backgrounds is that iPi recommends you to wear a black shirt which of course will 'disappear' into the background color if it is also black. This makes it nearly impossible for the tracker to understand the shapes it is trying to track. The solution might seem as simple as changing your shirt to a lighter color, however the reason a black shirt is recommended is that this color can 'hide' shadows cast on the body by your limbs and torso. In other words, in changing your shirt to a lighter color to contrast against a black background, you might just be trading one problem for another. Dark pants and dark hair can also be a problem against a dark background.

Another possible problem might be the lighting in that facility, assuming you intend to use them during capture. The lights in the photograph look very bright and directional, which could mean they cast very hard shadows which can confuse the tracker. Also, bright lights aimed directly into the camera may result in poor video results for motion capture.

Don't take this a discouragement though. So long as you're aware of these potential issues, you might be able to minimize the problems with proper planning and preparation. Hope you can make this work for you.

G.

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Greenlaw
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Using light clothes causes a problem of self-shadows. The best solution is to use some "pure" color clothes (green, blue or red). There will be gool color difference between walls and figure, and problem of self-shadows will be minimized.

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iPi Soft

My very first use of Ipi was in such a room. Stay away from the spot and other stag lights. There most likely fluorescent lights for normal use.

One of the bigger problems is finding the floor plain. Black wall and black floor can be a pain. Some wide tape, white paper in view of the cameras tape down but out of your working area will help. Also if you doing the half cycle set up get some tape across the floor edge of the wall.

Dale

Hey there all,

Thanks for the many comments in regards to this. I have just got three of the four cameras on tripods now (the fourth is a bit tricky, need to figure out how to attach it to a mic stand for the over 2m height).

Anyway, I am about to get access to that facility so will give it a proper test, the lighting which I will be using will just be fluros and if needed the roof also has halogen lighting inbedded in the ceiling.

Will not be using any of the stage lights during mocap.

Thanks heaps for all your advice, will go and get on the lookout for some plain pure coloured clothing in the sales over the next couple of weeks.

Will post back with results and how all the tips in here worked out. :)