Outer Frustum

Understanding Outer Frustum

The outer frustum comprises all LED surfaces outside the camera's direct view. While invisible in the final image, this zone is essential for creating believable lighting and reflections that integrate subjects into the virtual environment.

Lighting Role

**Environmental Lighting:** The outer frustum acts as a massive light source, wrapping subjects in light that matches the virtual environment:

• Correct color temperature
• Appropriate intensity
• Accurate directionality
• Dynamic response

**Reflection Source:** Surfaces on subjects (eyes, glasses, costumes, props) reflect the outer frustum, revealing the environment.

Technical Approach

**Reduced Requirements:** Since it is not captured on camera:

• Lower resolution acceptable
• Simplified content
• Less processing power
• Static or slowly updating

**Color Accuracy:** Despite lower resolution, color must match the inner frustum precisely for consistent lighting.

Content Considerations

**Simplified Rendering:** Outer frustum content often uses:

• Blurred/simplified backgrounds
• Color-matched gradients
• Key lighting elements only
• Lower frame rate updates

**Brightness Compensation:** Outer frustum is often run brighter to:

• Provide adequate subject lighting
• Match practical lighting levels
• Create desired mood/atmosphere

Integration with Lighting

**Supplement vs. Replace:** Outer frustum LED lighting may:

• Replace traditional film lights entirely
• Supplement practical fixtures
• Provide fill and ambient only
• Match existing lighting setup

**Control:** LED brightness and color can be adjusted to:

• Match desired lighting ratio
• Create specific moods
• Compensate for distance
• Balance with practicals

Ceiling Integration

**Overhead Panels:** LED ceiling panels function as outer frustum:

• Provide sky/environment lighting
• Create overhead reflections
• Replace traditional softboxes
• Enable ambient color control

Zone Management

**Transition:** The boundary between inner and outer frustum requires:

• Smooth content transition
• Color matching
• Brightness balancing
• Edge detection avoidance

**Dynamic Adjustment:** As camera moves, zones shift:

• Inner frustum tracks camera
• Outer frustum adjusts accordingly
• Transitions remain seamless