Pro Cyc cyclorama (cyc) systems are designed for precise assembly, but the final result depends on proper prep, alignment, joint finishing, and paint. This overview explains what to expect before installation and links to the written instructions, schematics, videos, and construction notes for each system.
Always follow the installation instructions for your specific Pro Cyc system. If the written instructions and an installation video differ, follow the written instructions.
Who should handle cyc installation?
Most Pro Cyc systems can be installed by qualified local installers, contractors, or studio teams with basic drywall or Sheetrock experience. For best results, plan for at least three people and review the written instructions, schematics, and installation videos before starting.
What modular cyc installation usually involves:
- Inspect shipment and verify parts
- Sand module surfaces and flanges
- Assemble the support structure or prepare the built-in wall
- Align and fasten modules
- Trim modules if needed
- Finish joints and floor transitions
- Prime and paint
- Review touch-up and maintenance recommendations
Built-in vs. Freestanding cyc installation
- Built-in systems integrate with existing or newly framed studio wall(s). Wall straightness matters because the modules attach to the framing, and that framing affects how well the modules align and butt together.
- All-in-one Freestanding systems use leg support assemblies and arrive with everything necessary to build your cyclorama wall without the need of any additional walls supports or hardware. They are designed for spaces where tying into an existing wall is not the right fit. Proper alignment of the leg assemblies, brackets, and module faces is critical to keeping the cyc surface flush and even.
Critical Cyc installation details:
- Do not skip surface prep. Sanding is not cosmetic. It improves adhesion for paint and joint compound and helps prevent missed edges before assembly.
- Use the right joint compound. For the first two coats, use Durabond® 90-Minute Sheetrock® Setting-Type Joint Compound. Do not use Easy Sand or Light varieties.
- Let mud dry fully. Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next. In high humidity, drying can take up to 24 hours. One or more fans evenly spaced to create consistent airflow across the face of the cyc wall can significantly speed up drying time.
- Reinforce the floor transition. For systems with a tapered floor edge, especially those that will have a painted floor, dry mortar mix can be packed behind the floor modules, then sprayed with water to reinforce the leading edge.
- Use the correct primer and paint system. Pro Cyc recommends one coat of Grey Bonding Primer followed by Virtual Green® Chroma Key Paint, Dark Virtual Green®, Virtual Blue™, or Cyclorama White™ Studio Paint, as a premium finish for your project.
Extra support when needed
We also offer a variety of video tutorials for our cyclorama systems to guide your installation from start to finish.
Premium on-site support
Senior oversight for mission-critical installations
Some installations justify a higher-touch process. For studios working against a fixed launch date, large-scale modular systems, or first-time installations with limited margin for error, Pro Cyc can provide on-site oversight by a senior team member.
This is a premium, approval-based service for projects where launch timing, finished surface quality, or studio readiness makes expert presence worth the added cost.
Best fit for
- Fixed opening dates or production deadlines
- Large three- or four-wall modular systems
- First-time installs with limited margin for error
- Projects where rework would cost more than oversight
- Installs where reliable local labor is not available
What we provide
- Pre-install review of your system, site conditions, and studio requirements
- On-site guidance at critical assembly and alignment checkpoints
- Finish review for joint work, surface prep, primer, paint, flooring, and touch-up
Pro Cyc does not supply or replace the installation crew. Your contractor remains responsible for labor and job-site execution. Our role is to advise during the details that most affect the finished cyclorama surface.
Availability: On-site support is available by advance approval and scheduling only. Personnel availability is limited. Travel expenses, accommodations, and a daily supervision fee apply.