How to Build a Complete On-Set Reference Kit for VFX

Serious about integrating VFX with live-action footage? Then you need more than just a chrome ball. A complete on-set reference kit—including a chrome ball, gray ball, and ColorChecker—ensures accurate lighting, color, and reflection capture for seamless CGI integration.

Why You Need All Three

  • Chrome Ball: Captures environment reflections and 360° light direction for HDRI lighting.
  • Gray Ball: Shows shadow softness, light direction, and exposure level for compositing reference.
  • ColorChecker: Calibrates white balance, exposure, and color accuracy across cameras and shots.

Suggested Kit Layout

Mount all three elements at the same height as the subject. Use a C-stand, mini tripod, or reference rig.

On-set VFX kit layout

Tip: Keep the reference tools in the same lighting condition as your subject. Avoid placing them in shadow or too close to light sources.

When to Use the Kit

  • At the start of every major shot or lighting change
  • Before shooting background plates or HDRIs
  • For photogrammetry or 3D scanning reference
  • To maintain consistency across multicam shoots

Reference Kit Options

For most indie productions, a 126mm chrome + gray ball and a standard ColorChecker 24 provide excellent results.

Conclusion

A complete on-set reference kit is the foundation of any professional VFX workflow. It improves color matching, lighting accuracy, and compositing realism. Whether you're working on a short film or a VFX-heavy production, investing in a chrome ball, gray ball, and ColorChecker is a smart move for visual consistency.

Need a ready-to-use kit? Explore our RefBall bundles for high-quality chrome, gray, and calibration tools.
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