News 5 Virtual Backdrops

As part of Medicorp’s move to its new campus in Singapore, a purpose built broadcast studio was developed to support the News 5 bulletin. Central to the new studio design was a large format LED screen positioned behind the presenters, creating both an opportunity and a challenge. The screen required a backdrop that would enhance the broadcast visually, support storytelling, and remain flexible for daily news production without overpowering the on screen talent.

Our role was to design and prepare a virtual backdrop that would feel contemporary, credible, and distinctly connected to Singapore. The solution needed to perform reliably across a range of camera angles and lighting conditions while offering enough visual depth to avoid a flat or static appearance on air.

We developed a layered virtual environment built around a crystalline architectural interior. This structure forms the mid ground of the scene, introducing a sense of scale and spatial definition while framing the presenters naturally. The geometry and materiality of the interior were designed to feel modern and refined, echoing the innovation and professionalism of the News 5 brand without drawing focus away from the broadcast content.

Behind this architectural layer sits a composite photographic panorama of Singapore. Multiple city images were carefully blended to create a cohesive skyline that feels familiar yet elevated. The background was further enhanced through sky replacements, refined atmospheric lighting, and color balancing.

To bring the scene to life, subtle animated elements were introduced throughout the environment. Moving traffic, dynamic lighting accents, and gentle environmental motion add energy and realism without becoming distracting. These animations help the backdrop feel alive and current, reinforcing the immediacy of live news while maintaining a calm visual rhythm appropriate for a bulletin format.

The final virtual backdrop integrates seamlessly with the LED screen and studio lighting, providing News 5 with a versatile and future ready visual environment. It supports the presenters, complements the editorial content, and establishes a strong visual identity for Medicorp’s new studio as they begin broadcasting from their new campus.

Client

Mediacorp, Singapore

Design

Jim Mann, Lightwell