A wall with a lifelike image. A building that seems to move. Or a flat object that suddenly has depth. You don't believe your eyes! And yet it can be done. Or well... it seems to be possible. Goosebumps! Thanks to video mapping. We also call it projection mapping. A perfect way to amaze your visitors when organising an event. But what is it exactly? And what can you do with it?
What is video mapping?
Videomapping is also called projection mapping. This is where images and animations are projected onto objects. For example, buildings, stages or other surfaces. So you do not use a slide screen. However, you consciously choose a physical form. A facade, a decor, a car or even an entire exhibition stand thus becomes your canvas to amaze people. And the beauty of video mapping: if it is done well ... your breath will stop. Wonderful to see, unique to experience.
You need special software to match images to the object you are projecting it onto. So just putting a projector down and shining it doesn't work and won't have the same effect. Because by making specific tuning, it looks like the image is part it of surface you shine on.
That sounds a bit vague, but you can therefore go in any direction. For example, make a dance floor 'move' to the rhythm of the music. Make a building crumble. Or turn a castle into a futuristic city. Video mapping is a great way to blur the line between reality and fantasy. And technology is not standing still here either. Because where projection used to be done only on still objects, we also see trends with moving images. Cameras are getting better and better, so the possibilities are also increasing.
What can you do with video mapping?
We get it: video mapping is still relatively unknown. It sounds complicated and it is not yet deployed incredibly often. Yet the possibilities are literally endless, because with a little creative insight, you can transform any object through video mapping. This is what you can do with video mapping:
- Creating atmosphere
Use it at your opening show, at an entrance or to visually support a presentation. You can really create a wow moment through video mapping. Perfect for award ceremonies, product launches, trade shows or conferences. What do we say ...? Basically everywhere. Because you add such a unique atmosphere to your event. This is something people will talk about for a long time.
- Making stories happen
Telling a story is one thing. But making visitors experience it... that's another. And that can be done with video mapping. It adds a lot of power to your story. Emotional charge to the message. Goosebumps moments. Go on a journey with your visitors and let them experience how beautiful your story or product really is.
- Attract attention
If you want your visitors to catch their eye immediately, video mapping is perfect. And especially when combined with background music. Do you have a product launch? Then let your new product literally pop out of the wall. Or 'unpack it virtually' on a special pedestal. This will give the new product even more experience and attention.
- Create interaction
We said it before: combine video mapping also with sound or other interactive features. This already enhances the visitors' experience. Create complete interactive applications and allow the audience to participate in them, for example. Ask them what they want to see or let them press the start button.
Benefits of video mapping
Video mapping has several advantages. It takes the experience to a higher level. It makes people quiet for a moment and takes them to another world. Other benefits:
- Distinctive
Colouring outside the lines, so to speak. You do something totally different from the rest. It is relatively new and therefore distinctive. With video mapping, you make an immediate impression.
- Creative freedom
As cliché as it sounds: everything around you is your canvas. Your canvas. You are not stuck with a rectangle or standard screen. The possibilities are endless!
- No physical decor needed
Building a set takes time. And money. And, of course: space. You don't always have that. With project mapping, you don't need to make unnecessary investments, because you simply project onto an existing object. If you do it right, video mapping can make your event location stand out even more. - Sustainable
As far as we are concerned, a very big advantage: sustainability. You need fewer physical materials, which makes video mapping a sustainable alternative. Less waste, less transport, less emissions.
Making an impact yourself with your meeting, conference or other event? We are here for you. At Jaarbeurs, we have years of experience in organising and hosting events. We know what is going on and know the latest trends. Moreover, we can put you in touch with the right parties to take your meeting to the next level. Want to know more? Contact our account or event managers.
