How to Choose the Right VFX Chrome Ball for Your Production
When it comes to seamless VFX integration, a high-quality chrome ball (mirror ball) is an essential tool. But which size, finish, and type should you pick? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between VFX chrome balls, so you can confidently choose the best option for your workflow—whether you’re shooting on set, outdoors, or in a small studio.
Chrome Ball vs. Grey Ball: What's the Difference?
Chrome Ball (Mirror Ball): Highly reflective, used for capturing 360° lighting and reflections. Ideal for HDRI capture and light probes.
Grey Ball: Matte/satin finish, absorbs light evenly. Best for color calibration, white balance, and determining light direction.
How to Choose the Right Size
- 60mm: Lightweight, great for tabletop or mobile setups.
- 126mm: Standard for most on-set VFX, balances portability and accurate reflection size.
- 200mm: Maximum reflection quality, perfect for large outdoor or studio environments.
Which Finish Should You Pick?
- Mirror Chrome: For HDRI, light probe, and general reflection capture.
- Grey Chrome: For color grading, exposure reference, and lighting direction checks.
Common Questions
Q: Do I need both a chrome and grey ball?
Yes, if your workflow requires both lighting and color reference. Chrome balls capture reflections, grey balls capture color and intensity.
Q: What about mounting?
Use a sturdy C-stand or tripod for stability. Avoid touching the ball with bare hands to prevent fingerprints.
Conclusion
The right VFX chrome ball depends on your project scale, reference needs, and shooting environment. A 126mm chrome ball fits most scenarios, while larger or smaller sizes can fine-tune your results. Consider pairing with a grey ball for complete reference coverage.