Creative Backgrounds

Big screens add a “cool” edge to your presentations.

By Scott Reagles

We’ve all seen the events that have the big screens showing images from cameras, videos and PowerPoint presentations. But frankly, why limit yourself to just that? Here are some uses for video displays that can add functionality and a little “coolness” factor to your show.

It’s not just for audiences!

A lot of time and effort is spent on what the audience sees. What about everyone else? Video monitors aimed at the stage for presenters and talent (sometimes called confidence or prompt monitors) are almost a necessity these days. They are able to show people on stage what they need to see: Sometimes they need to see what is on the main screens, sometimes their presentation and yes, even a countdown clock or message to wrap up. Performers may need to see song lyrics or background videos. These monitors can be as simple as a single LCD monitor, multiple monitors to provide countdown and presentations at the same time and even large screens hanging out in the house that only people on stage can see. Monitors can also be set up back stage and in green-room areas for people who are not on stage and not in the audience.

Scenery

Putting a screen with images behind the stage is a simple way to create scenery that can be easily changed. This can be as simple as having a single image, or complex and expensive using giant screen technology with high-end graphics. Beware though, the images have to be bright enough not to get washed out by stage lights, and items on stage will block parts of the image. So it takes planning. But done right it can add a great effect.

Graphics & Presentations

Presenters sometime cram their slides with a ton of information, sometimes just bullet points. It can be a tough call whether to show their presentations or the camera feed of the presenter (also known as Image Magnification or I-Mag). Consider having both I-Mag screens and graphics screens if your event has a lot of PowerPoint or other graphics. That way, people in the audience can see the presenter on screen and their presentations at the same time.

Delay Screens

For really big audiences you should consider having additional screens out in the audience for those people farther away from the stage and main screens. In general, people should not be seated away from the screens more than eight times the height of the screen. So, if a screen it 10 feet tall, try to have people seated no farther than 80 feet away. Seat them even closer if screens will have small text or detailed graphics. Also consider adding screens to lobby areas and overflow rooms.

As always, it’s never quite as easy as it sounds. So make sure you discuss displays and content thoroughly with your AV provider.

Scott Reagles is a production manager and video director for IPG (Initial Production Group), based in Denver, Colo. He has focused on bridging the gap between clients and technology. You can reach him at scott@initialpro.com. IPG is a full-service production company that has been serving the religious market for more than 20 years.