Chroma keying

In television, Chroma keying is the nearly instantaneous switching between multiple video signals, based on the state (i.e. phase) of the color ("chroma") signal of one signal, to form a single composite video signal. This is used to create an overlay effect in the final picture, such as the insertion of a false background (like a weather map or a scenic view) behind the principal subject being photographed. This technique is also referred to as color keying, colour separation overlay and bluescreen.

The principal subject is photographed against a background having a single color or a relatively narrow range of colors, usually in the blue. When the phase of the chroma signal corresponds to the preprogrammed state or states associated with the background color(s) behind the principal subject, the signal from the alternate (false) background is inserted in the composite signal and presented at the output. When the phase of the chroma signal deviates from that associated with the background color(s) behind the principal subject, video associated with the principal subject is presented at the output.

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See also:

• chrominance signal[?]
• composite video

Source: Federal Standard 1037C