All You Need To Know About Projection Mapping

Technological advancement has infused its magic into all aspects of our lives. Screens are no longer exciting without 3D images and projection mapping. Consequently, the need for interactive screens to enliven indoor and outdoor events is rising. Hiring a projection mapping company is the surest way to get the best screen display for entertainment and advertising purposes.

 A brief history of projection mapping

Initially, projection mapping was known as Spatial Augmented Reality.  The discipline of exploring images for projection display is also known as video mapping. Projection mapping is as old as 1969 in Disneyland, where a rough surface was used to launch the Haunted Mansion ride. Projection mapping uses objects or spaces as the background surface. Creations mounted over the projection use light in space to enhance interior décor and building facades on screens.

When project mapping began, images were limited to flat walls. Today, creatively can explore structures and odd materials for the background surface.

What is projection mapping?

Projection mapping is the technique of turning objects and elements into an interactive display for video projection.  Projection mapping converts ordinary shapes and objects into impressive displays to leave lasting memories. For instance, you can overlap video images onto a building, table, or rough surface.

The background surface becomes the canvas for the video experience. It then plays off the background shape and texture to create a colorful display of illusion, light, and images.

Features of projection mapping

• Projection mapping enables videographers to mount videos on any surface, rough, rugged, or smooth.
• Projection mapping can intricately fit display images onto 3D models to impress a paint-on reality.
• Projection mapping uses applications to enhance marketing visions in an interactive, memorable way.
• Projection mapping creates an ever-lasting experience for big brand consumers.

How to do projection mapping

For a successful projection mapping, a technician should do the following;

1. Prepare appropriate equipment– project mapping requires a computer, video projection background or surface, and a cable. The cable connects the video projector and the computer.
2. The projection surface- a projection background can be a decorated surface, architectural element, or an accessory. The surface should be 3D friendly and designed explicitly for projection mapping. The technician can shop for the most appropriate surface to create versatile images.
3. Identify the appropriate position-once the equipment and surface are in place, you need to locate a projection position. Calculate the distance between the projector and the surface area of the projection backgrounds.
4. Develop a motion board, design, and create the projection surface– this is the defining and the most complex step in projection mapping.  You need the creativity of motion designers and then transfer the content as video files.
5. Plan lighting- Calculate the light required for brightness, shadow, and pixel density. Appropriate lighting is an essential requirement for a balanced projection mapping display.
6. Do the physical setup- All the above preparation is done on the computer. The final step is visiting the actual location of the event.

Conclusion

Projection mapping allows creators to display compelling visual images anywhere. It eliminates the need for a smooth surface to accommodate rough, uneven surfaces as the background for illusion graphics.