Ensuring parallel alignment between camera and VFX chart during chart shooting

Gear

ZephyrCan I fly my Alexa or RED on a Zephyr?389

Master SeriesIs a used Master Series rig worth buying as a first big rig?191

BFDHow do I power my BFD receiver from my camera or sled?186

VoltCan I retrofit a Volt onto my existing sled or gimbal?168

ArtemisHow do I power my camera and accessories from an Artemis sled?166

MDRWhere can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?143

ModulusIs there a Modulus option for HD wireless video?141

G-70Will my G-70 fit my vest, gimbal or sled?126

FI+ZCan I control iris and zoom wirelessly, not just focus?60

HU3Where can I get my HU3 repaired, refurbished or repainted?60

CineLiveHow do I pack and case my CineLive rig for transport?54

G-70XHow does the G-70X compare to Pro Titan, Xarm and other arms?46

Trinity 2Is Trinity 2 SUP 3.0 firmware safe to install or buggy?46

Ultra VestWhich vest should I choose for my body size, comfort and operator type?39

2018Off Topic forum

When shooting VFX charts and rack leaders at various focal lengths, the camera sensor plane must remain parallel to the chart surface to avoid keystoning and distortion
A small reflective mirror mounted flush to the center of the chart can be used to verify the camera is pointing directly perpendicular to the chart by locating the camera's front lens element in the mirror's reflection
Leveling both the chart and camera addresses the roll axis to maintain perpendicular alignment

This technique requires the chart to be mounted completely flat and the mirror to be mounted flush with the chart surface
The mirror alignment method primarily ensures perpendicularity but relies on separate leveling steps for roll axis correction
At long distances of 20-30 feet, locating the lens element reflection can be difficult without additional lighting assistance