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FX Group helps Orlando station make switch to high definition

ORLANDO, Fla. — Since only about one-eighth of the Orlando market has the equipment to view high definition broadcasts, set designer FX Group knew the WFTV-TV’s new set would need to accommodate both standard and high definition viewers.

The Federal Communications Commission has mandated that all television be converted to digital by 2009, and many stations, including WFTV, are making the switch now to get ready.

At this point, however, both standard and high definition viewers will notice WFTV’s new look — including a new set with professional lighting developed specifically for the new, higher-quality cameras.

The project’s biggest challenge was designing a set that would work in high definition’s wide, 16:9 size while still fitting into the smaller, more square-shaped 4:3 size televisions still in use in most households.

“The set needed to look good in HD while not changing the experience for our 4:3 viewers,” said Bob St. Charles, director of marketing for WFTV.

Each shot needed to be carefully planned to ensure flexibility in both formats, said Glenn Anderson, senior designer at FX Group, the company that designed, built and installed WFTV’s updated set.

FX Group’s in-house lighting designers utilized soft lighting to make the station’s anchors look their best and ensure the high-quality finishes and rear projection screens were appropriately lit.

Special attention also needed to be paid to the fact that high definition cameras tend to “flatten” anchors into backgrounds. By carefully selecting the set’s finishes and lighting, FX Group ensured viewers would see depth on the air.

“We know what works in HD and what doesn’t,” said Anderson. “We can pay special attention to those issues and create a set that accommodates all concerns.”

WFTV was the first station in Florida to begin broadcasting true high definition local news and tenth in the country, according to station management. Many aspects — including installing the new cameras, graphics and the set needed to be reviewed and revamped in preparation for the June 29 switch.

Even non-high definition viewers notice a clearer, sharper image, according to St. Charles.

“Right away we started hearing from viewers about how crisp and clear we were compared to what we used to be,” St. Charles said. That clearer picture has even started to lure some viewers away from the other, non-HD stations in the market, said St. Charles.

FX Group brought a reputation of quality craftsmanship to ensure a top-notch on-air look in high definition. The company’s 48,000-square foot facility, which includes an in-house wood, paint and metal shop and sign and laminating departments has been producing finely-crafted, high definition-level scenery for 20 years.

“Even before HD was a concern, our sets were using the best materials and finishes,” said Mack McLaughlin, CEO and creative director of FX Group.

“FX listened every step of the way and delivered our first HD set and a product we were completely satisfied with,” said St. Charles.

For more information about FX Group, call Kathy Mosher-Boulé at 407-877-9600 or