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How to Remove Video Background without green screen

Science & Technology

How to Remove Video Background without a Green Screen

Hi everyone, Kevin here! Today, I want to show you how you can remove the background from your video, whether you're recording or streaming, so you can create something that looks like this:

Whoa, check out me flying this plane! This is pretty sweet! Whoa, barrel roll!

Whether you're walking through a PowerPoint presentation, demonstrating something on your desktop, or just having a little fun and want to appear in front of your game, it's really easy to do. I'll show you step by step how to pull this off without the need for fancy equipment or a green screen. All you'll need is a basic webcam or camera hooked up to your computer, and we'll use free software.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how you can achieve this:

Step 1: Download OBS

First, we need to get some free software to help us with this. Open up your web browser and head over to obsproject.com. OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is free and open-source for video recording and live streaming.

OBS works on Windows, Mac, and Linux. Run through the installation process and join back in the video.

Step 2: Download Webex

Next, head over to webex.com to sign up. Webex is free to sign up for and use. Create an account, sign in, and download the desktop app.

You can alternatively use Zoom or Microsoft Teams, but in this demonstration, I am using Webex Meetings because it does a very good job at removing backgrounds.

Step 3: Create a Virtual Green Screen

You can easily create a virtual green screen using Paint, which comes pre-installed with Windows.

  1. Open Paint.
  2. Click on the green color.
  3. Use the paint bucket or fill tool to fill the background with green.
  4. Save the file as "green screen" on your desktop.

Step 4: Set Up in Webex

Open your favorite video conferencing software (e.g., Webex Meetings). Start a new meeting, even if it's just you.

  1. Click on "Change Background" in the top right corner.
  2. Add the green screen image you created.

Step 5: Incorporate in OBS

Open OBS and follow these steps:

  1. Add a New Scene: Click on the plus icon, name your scene (e.g., "Green Screen"), and click OK.
  2. Add a Source: Click the plus icon in the Sources box, select "Window Capture," and name it (e.g., "Webex Meetings Video"). Select the Webex Meetings window.
  3. Crop the Video: Press the Alt key while dragging the corners of the video to crop it.
  4. Add Chroma Key Filter: Right-click on the source, select Filters, then add a Chroma Key filter. Adjust settings if necessary.

Step 6: Add Content

Add content as another source in OBS:

  1. Add Content Source: Click on the plus icon in the Sources box, and select the type of content you want to display (e.g., "Window" for a PowerPoint presentation).
  2. Adjust the Layers: Ensure your content source is below your video source in the Sources list.
  3. Position the Video: Drag your video to an appropriate spot on the screen (e.g., bottom right corner).

Step 7: Start Recording or Streaming

Once everything is set:

  1. Click on "Start Recording" or "Start Streaming."
  2. Enjoy your new setup where you can present seamlessly in front of your chosen content.

Keywords

  • Video background removal
  • Virtual green screen
  • OBS
  • Webex Meetings
  • Chroma Key
  • Free software
  • Video conferencing
  • Live streaming

FAQ

Q1: Can I use this method on Mac or Linux? Yes, OBS works on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Q2: Do I need any paid software? No, all the software tools mentioned (OBS and Webex Meetings) are free to use.

Q3: Can I use Zoom or Microsoft Teams instead of Webex? Yes, you can use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to remove the background instead of Webex.

Q4: Why create a virtual green screen instead of using a physical one? A virtual green screen is a cost-effective method that provides acceptable results without buying any physical equipment.

Q5: Will the quality be as good as using a real green screen? While a real green screen provides cleaner results, a virtual green screen works well enough for most needs without the added cost.