
	Video Backgrounds 101

	What is a video background?


	by Diana Teeters

A video background is a short movie clip with a specific theme used to spice up a video, a presentation, or a live performance. Video backgrounds usually loop seamlessly. That is to say, the end of the clip is the same as the beginning. This comes in handy when you need a duration longer than the actual duration of the video clip. Video backgrounds are provided in several file formats. The most common file formats are AVIs, Quicktime MOV, MPEG1, and MPEG2.

Video backgrounds come in many themes that cater to the specific needs of the user. Popular themes include:


		Wedding Nature Holidays Sports Home Movies Special Events Worship Abstract

Most video backgrounds available today fall under the abstract theme.

What are some uses of video backgrounds?

	Video backgrounds have many uses. They can be placed behind video titles and credits to create interest. They can be the background that replaces the green or blue screen when creating chroma-key videos. Photo slide show presentations are now capable of putting video backgrounds behind photos and text. Many times video backgrounds are used as motion backgrounds for DVD menus. Worship leaders use moving backgrounds behind scripture and song lyrics while projecting them on large screens during the worship service. Projection of video backgrounds behind live performances has become popular. For example, on the American Idol show, huge video screens are used to project eye-catching motion graphics while the contestants perform.

What software is needed to use video backgrounds?

To use video backgrounds in video productions, you�ll need video editing software. There are many programs to choose from at several price points. Here�s a great resource for reviews and comparisons on video editing software: PCmag.com

For photo slide shows, Photodex ProShow Producer is quite capable of having multiple layers of photos and video backgrounds.

When it comes to projecting the backgrounds in a church environment, EasyWorship, MediaShout, and SundayPlus are the most popular.