Projection mapping rental

What projection mapping is and what you use it for

Projection mapping is a technique in which we do not cast imagery onto a flat screen, but make it align exactly with the shape of an object. That object can be almost anything: a facade, a set wall, a staircase, a car, a product or an abstract shape on stage. The image follows the contours, angles and depth of that surface, so it looks as if the shape itself changes, lights up or comes to life. Where an ordinary projection is a rectangle on a screen, mapping turns the object into the canvas.

The striking effect happens because your brain starts to see the image and the physical shape as a single whole. A smooth facade can appear to crack, crumble or fold open, a set piece can change colour and texture, and a product can carry an animation that runs seamlessly across its casing. That makes projection mapping ideally suited to moments where you want to make an impression: a reveal, an opening, or a moment when all eyes need to be on a single point.

From flat image to shape

The difference from regular projection lies in the preparation. With an ordinary image you point the projector at a screen and get the size right. With mapping, image and shape have to coincide down to the centimetre. That is why we measure the object, build a digital model of the shape and tailor the image to fit it precisely. On site we then fine-tune the alignment, so every line of the image lands on the correct edge of the object. That precision is what sets mapping apart from a projection on a wall.

When to use projection mapping

Projection mapping is not a standard solution for every presentation, but an effect you use deliberately at moments where impact counts. Precisely because of the careful preparation, it is a choice for a highlight in your programme.

Concrete events

• Product launches: an animation that runs exactly across the shape of the new product, or a set that breaks open at the moment of reveal. At a product launch, mapping gives the reveal an effect that people keep remembering.
• Corporate events: a facade or set wall that comes to life during the opening or the closing moment with imagery matched to the brand identity. At corporate events, we often use mapping as the visual anchor point of the evening.
• Presentations and conferences: a stage set or backdrop onto which imagery falls seamlessly into the shape, giving the opening or the transition between segments extra power. At presentations and conferences, mapping lifts the stage image above an ordinary projection.
• Hybrid events and livestreams: a mapped set that impresses both in the room and for viewers at home, enriching the on-screen image. At hybrid events and livestreams, we tailor the mapping to the camera positions, so the effect also comes across online.

Whether mapping is the right choice depends on your goal, the object and the space. Sometimes a large television or a clean projection onto a screen is more practical, and we always look at that per situation.

The technology: measuring, positioning, connecting and setup

Behind a successful mapping effect sits a series of precise steps. It comes down to measuring, correct projector placement, a good source and plenty of alignment time on site.

Measuring and preparing the image

The first step is measuring the object. We record the shape, the dimensions and the contours and turn them into a digital model. The image is then designed or adapted on that model, so every animation lands exactly on a surface, an edge or a recess. This preparation largely happens before the event, so that on site we mainly need to fine-tune rather than start from scratch.

Placing the projectors

Where the projectors stand determines how straight and complete the image lands on the object. We look for a position that covers the entire surface without people or objects casting shadows into the projection. For large or irregular shapes we use multiple projectors and let the images blend seamlessly into one another, so you see no seams or dark spots. The projectors are rigged or set up firmly, because even a small shift pulls the image off the shape.

Connecting the source

The image comes from a media player or system that we connect to the projectors, usually via HDMI or professional signal cabling for longer distances. If you work with multiple projectors, we distribute the image across the units and make sure everything runs in sync. We lay all cables neatly and safely, including across walkways, so the setup looks tidy and no one trips over anything.

Setup, testing and operation on site

After the setup, the meticulous work begins: the alignment. We project the image onto the object and correct the geometry until every line lands in the right place. This takes patience and a thorough test, because with mapping a small error stands out immediately. We then run through the entire show to check that the timing, the transitions and the sharpness are right. During the event our technician operates the moment, starts the mapping on the right cue and keeps an eye on the image staying tight on the shape.

Points of attention specific to projection mapping

Mapping has a few characteristics that make or break the result. The most important are brightness, the surface itself, the viewing distance and the light in the room.

Brightness and the surface

Projection relies on reflected light, so the surface determines how much of the image you see back. A light, matte shape reflects the image beautifully and holds colour and contrast. A dark, glossy or heavily textured surface absorbs light or causes distracting reflections. For difficult surfaces we choose projectors with more brightness and assess in advance whether the object is suitable. Sometimes we advise treating the surface lightly to strengthen the effect.

Viewing distance and viewing angle

Mapping is strongest from the viewpoint the image was built for. From the side or at a sharp angle the illusion can weaken slightly, because the image is aligned to the shape along a particular line of sight. When designing, we take into account where the audience stands or sits and the camera positions during a livestream, so the effect works for as many people as possible.

Tuning the light in the room

The darker the surroundings, the stronger the mapping effect. Bright ambient light on the object makes the image look washed out and undermines the illusion. We often look for a balance where the rest of the room is dimmed during the mapping moment, while speakers or guests can still move safely. We coordinate this with the lighting design, so the mapping and the room lighting do not work against each other.

Combining with lighting, sound and effects

Projection mapping comes into its own most when it is part of a whole. Image, sound and lighting reinforce one another, and precisely at a reveal or opening moment that combination makes the difference.

• With sound: a mapping show without sound misses half its impact. Well-built sound with music and effects timed to the image completes the moment. We make sure image and audio run in sync and that the volume is right throughout the room.
• With lighting: we tune the room lighting so the mapping stays full and sharp, with a gradual transition to the effect moment. A well-considered lighting plan helps determine how strong the illusion comes across.
• With special effects: a mapped object that lights up as an effect bursts into life gives a powerful climax. Do watch the dosage, because too much haze or smoke can soften the projected image. Explore the options on the special effects page, and we will tailor the effect to the mapping setup.

Projection mapping is part of our complete range in the field of video, where we bring projection, televisions and image direction together into one seamless whole.

Practical tips for a successful mapping

• Share the shape and dimensions early. The sooner we know the object, the better we can measure and prepare the image. Photos, drawings or measurements of the object help us enormously.
• Choose a suitable surface. A light, matte shape gives the best result. If you are unsure whether your object will work, put it to us and we will assess it in advance.
• Allow plenty of setup time. Aligning image to shape takes time. Plan the setup and the test well before guests arrive, and the effect is guaranteed to sit tight.
• Set the lighting plan together. Mapping and room lighting are closely linked. If we know in advance how dark it can be at the effect moment, we tune everything to it.
• Think about the sightlines. Determine where the audience stands or sits and where any cameras will be, so we align the image to the right viewpoints.

Renting projection mapping from HuurAV

If you want to make a building, set or object truly come to life, projection mapping is the way to surprise your audience. We take care of the entire process: from measuring the shape and preparing the image to setting up the projectors, aligning them and operating on site. Whether it is a product launch, a corporate event or a conference, we are happy to think along about how image, sound and lighting together create the effect you have in mind. Request a no-obligation quote, and we will put together a fitting mapping setup for your event.