Abstract: An adaptive architecture for video effects allows a transformed image from a digital video effects (DVE) system to be inserted at any desired point along a video path through a production switcher while maintaining strict timing reqirements between the digital video effects system and the production switcher. The transformed image from the DVE system is input to a primary input bus as well as to a fill video input of a dowstream keyer (DSK) for the production switcher. A key signal from the DVE system is input to an effects key input and a key input of the DSK for the production switcher. The DVE system has a genlock timing system that provides a variable output timing signal to synchronize the transformed image with the video of the production system at the desired point of insertion along the video path.