The History And Using A Cyclorama Wall For Professional Video Shoots

Kevin Wilkerson
REV Studios
Published in
3 min readJul 13, 2024
REV Studios has this cyclorama wall for professional video shoots. Photo: REV Studios

In immersive art and photography, few settings have been as influential and captivating as what is called the cyclorama wall. It is a large, curved canvas backdrop that has created the illusion of infinite space for more than a century. In this blog post, we’ explore the cyclorama wall — also known as cyc (rhymes with bike) – and its famous uses and contributions to professional video shoots.

The Cyclorama Wall: A Brief History

The term “cyclorama” finds its origins in the Greek words “kyklos” (meaning “circle”) and “orama” (meaning “view”). The cyclorama wall, also known as the cyclorama backdrop or cyclorama curtain, was first introduced in the early 19th century as a theatrical device primarily used in the performing arts. In the world of commercials and movies, cyclorama walls are deployed as large, curved canvases encompassing the set, offering a seamless and realistic background for various scenes. This versatile technique adds a captivating touch to visual storytelling, creating immersive environments and enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

Famous Uses Of Cyclorama Walls

  1. In the commercial “Get a Mac — Better,” the cyclorama wall serves as a versatile backdrop that seamlessly transitions between various scenes, adding a touch of dynamism to the advertisement. Its curved surface and neutral color facilitate a clean and polished look, allowing the characters and products to take center stage, effectively conveying the message of superiority and innovation associated with Apple.

2. In the Heineken Light commercial featuring Neil Patrick Harris as an actor, the cyclorama wall plays a pivotal role in creating a visually captivating experience. The clever use of a cyclorama wall breaks the fourth wall as Neil Patrick Harris humorously interacts with the behind-the-scenes crew and the dynamic backdrops on the set. The brand’s commitment to quality and creativity makes the commercial stand out in the minds of viewers.

3. In “The Mandalorian,” the cyclorama wall, also known as “The Volume,” revolutionizes the way visual effects are integrated into filmmaking. The massive LED screens surrounding the set provide real-time, high-quality backgrounds, allowing actors to interact with lifelike environments and characters. This innovative technology enhances the show’s immersive experience, setting new standards for the industry and earning widespread acclaim for its seamless integration of practical and digital effects.

4. Hublot Watches recently collaborated with REV Studio for its commercial featuring two-time Women’s World Cup champion, Alex Morgan, which showcased the perfect blend of luxury and athleticism. The use of the cyclorama wall during the shoot added a level of sophistication and versatility, creating a seamless backdrop that enhances the visual impact of the advertisement.

Hublot | US international @alexmorgan13 plays her club football in California and is captain of the San Diego Wave FC. @miramikati captured the… | Instagram

Alex Morgan films Hublot Watch commercial on REV Studios Cyclorama set

The use of cyclorama walls has expanded exponentially from its humble beginnings in theatrical performances to become a canvas for stunning panoramic vistas and immersive virtual experiences. With contributions from studios like REV Studios, this revolutionary medium continues to redefine the boundaries of art and technology.

As we move forward, the cyclorama wall will remain an essential tool in capturing the beauty and history of our world.

REV Studios has LIVE green screen capabilities, even in portrait mode. Our green screen enables clients to seamlessly integrate themselves into any backdrop of their choice, creating dynamic and visually stunning video productions. Clients can unleash their creativity and bring their ideas to life with unparalleled realism.

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Kevin Wilkerson
REV Studios

Award-winning journalist and blogger for PubClub.com. I write about bars, nightlife, food & drink, travel , music & sports.