Image-destroying reflection on your projection screen: determine the threat level and learn how to deal with it.
There are three important elements when it comes to the quality of the image on your projection screen:
1. The projector
2. The projection screen
3. The amount of ambient light
But there are small details which – when handled right – will add a little bit extra to your home theatre set up.
Let’s take the light that comes out of your projector. You aim it to fit the projection area of your screen perfectly. But even when you get it right, the light won’t magically stop exactly at the black border of your screen.
Some of the light will reflect back from all the surrounding parts, like the case, lower bar and even the walls.
The extent of this depends on four factors:
- The distance from the center of the screen to the object
- The reflectivity of the object.
- The size of the object
- The colour of the object
So the further away an object is, the lesser the effect on the image. And, the less reflective the object, the lesser the impact.
And, the bigger the object, the more impact it has. Plus, the lighter the object, the more effect is has.
To give you an example: the best object to surround your screen is a black velvet wall. One of the worst object would be a huge mirror wall.
Your room will probably be somewhere in the middle. To get to the next level, here are some options:
- Get a projection screen with a black case. This will reflect less light.
- Paint the wall onto which your screen is mounted dark. Preferably black
- Remove all shiny objects from the area of your projection screen
- If your floor is light, cover it with a dark carpet
Not every option will be feasible, but when planning the lay out of your room, keep these ideas in mind. If you have a multi-purpose room and you don;t use it for movie watching only, try to find a balance between looks and performance.
