LED Volume

Understanding LED Volumes

An LED volume is a specialized configuration of LED panels designed specifically for in-camera visual effects work. Unlike flat event screens, volumes typically curve around the action and include overhead panels, creating an immersive environment.

Volume Configurations

**Standard Stage Configuration:**

• Curved rear wall (180-270 degrees)
• Side wall returns
• Ceiling/canopy panels
• Floor reflection options

**Dimensions:**

• Small: 30-40' wide × 12-15' tall
• Medium: 40-60' wide × 15-20' tall
• Large: 60-80' wide × 20-25' tall

Technical Specifications

**Panel Requirements:**

• Pixel pitch: 1.5-2.9mm (finer for close-ups)
• Refresh rate: 7680Hz minimum
• Brightness: 1500-2000+ nits
• Color accuracy: Wide gamut, calibrated
• Low latency: Sub-frame processing

**Structure:**

• Curved frames for seamless appearance
• Precision alignment systems
• Service access from rear
• Weight-rated for ceiling panels

Zone Definitions

**Inner Frustum:** The area directly behind the main action that appears in the camera's field of view. Requires highest quality content rendering.

**Outer Frustum:** Peripheral areas not captured on camera but providing lighting and reflections on subjects and surfaces.

**Ceiling:** Overhead panels that provide ambient lighting and appear in reflective surfaces.

Content Considerations

**Resolution Requirements:** Content for the inner frustum needs to exceed the camera's capture resolution. 4K playback minimum, often 8K+ for large volumes.

**Perspective Correction:** Real-time engine adjusts the virtual camera perspective to match physical camera position, maintaining accurate parallax.

**Color Management:** Careful calibration ensures LED output matches intended colors for in-camera capture without correction.

Operational Factors

**Power:** Large volumes require substantial power infrastructure—often 400-800+ amps total for panels plus processing.

**Cooling:** Dense LED configurations generate significant heat. Climate control essential for performer comfort and panel longevity.

**Lighting Integration:** LED ceiling panels often supplement or replace traditional film lighting for background integration.

Cost Factors

Volume investment includes:

• LED panels (major cost)
• Curved structure/rigging
• Processing and media servers
• Camera tracking systems
• Content creation
• Skilled operators