Using Scrim For Backdrop

[carsonld]

We have a black sharktooth scrim, Well I was wondering if as long as we dont light it from the behind could we use it as just as a black backdrop?

 

[Les]

As long as there is nothing light-colored behind it. A common misconception is that a front-lighted scrim is opaque, but in reality, the light coming through will reflect off anything behind it and show through unless it is a very dark color. People moving around would also be seen.

High-sides or steeply angled toplight is probably the best way to make a scrim appear solid, but there may still be some bleed-through.

 

[carsonld]

So if we have someone walking behind it, Our audience will see it?

 

[Les]

More than likely, but it depends on how you light it. If you're lighting from the front and have any spill on to the scrim, then yes.

 

[sk8rsdad]

It all depends on the lighting, how close they are to the scrim, and what's going on downstage of the scrim to keep the audience from noticing.

 

[carsonld]

This is basiclly the blueprint for the scene, The orange is a 8 foot platform and the grey is the scrim. Also the platform will have flats on the back upstairs. For the most part the bottom will be covered but or to the stage right is where I am worried about being/things being seen

 

[venuetech]

a percentage of light from the front passes thrue the scrim and anything that is struck by that light can usually be seen. even light that has bounced or reflected off of the stage can be a problem.

 

[lipinski]

If you have some sheet goods in stock or stock flats and jacks you can paint them black and line the bottom portion of your scrim. Actors can walk behind them. Be sure to paint the tops. If you only have a few jacks, use Hog Troughs to pin the sheets together, one at 3' and one at 6' work nicely.