The art of projection mapping at your live event
Imagine transforming your keynote stage into an immersive environment, or even revolutionizing the facade of a centuries-old mission into a canvas of lights and colors. Both are possible with projection mapping — using multi-dimensional and multi-shaped surfaces to showcase video, graphics, and all manner of imagery.
Let’s explore what this exciting technology can do for your event content and the attendee experience.
This sophisticated visual technique goes beyond traditional screen projection by broadcasting images onto larger surfaces, effectively turning them into unexpected digital canvases.
Technically there are two types, each defined by the projection surface itself:
Projection mapping is more than just a visual trick. It also enhances attendee engagement by providing that coveted “wow” factor they’ll remember long after the event ends.
To nail this visual upgrade and achieve the best results, it’s important to take note of some technical variables:
We apply this technique in a variety of ways, at all sorts of events, and have learned a few things along the way:
For the keynote presentations at this global CPG conference, we used a predetermined theme to create a captivating visual backdrop across a series of 17 circles. It amplified both the show’s branding and speakers’ presentations.
Insider insight: Have detailed pre-show discussions and Q/A sessions that touch on budget, concept, content, and execution.
This automotive trade show project showed how this can be used in expo hall settings. We created a dynamic display of a speeding car on a wall as attendee traffic flowed around it.
Insider insight: Be prepared to adapt to on-site variables, like people moving around your projection or A/C and ventilation that could cause your surface to move unexpectedly.
For a city-wide activation and celebration we projected onto a centuries-old Spanish-colonial mission. This presented a unique challenge that combined casting onto a multi-dimensional surface with planning for outdoor environmental elements.
Insider Insight: When planning outdoor events, consider factors like ambient light, weather conditions, and the location of power sources.
Both the skill and technology that go into projection mapping are impressive, but they’re not out of reach. Especially since AV tech is already a line item in your budget.
Here are a couple ways to incorporate this approach while also saving on costs:
How cool would it be to illuminate your next event with the power of projection mapping?
Let’s map it out!