A wall with a lifelike image. A building that seems to move. Or a flat object that suddenly has depth. You won’t believe your eyes! And yet it’s possible. Or rather… it seems possible. Goosebumps! Thanks to video mapping. We also call it projection mapping. It’s the perfect way to amaze your visitors when you’re organising an event. But what exactly is it? 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 for your opening show, at an entrance or to visually enhance a presentation. You can really create a ‘wow’ moment with video mapping. Perfect for award ceremonies, product launches, trade fairs or conferences. What can we say…? Basically, anywhere. It adds such a unique atmosphere to your event. This is something people will be talking about for a long time to come.
- Bringing stories to life
Telling a story is one thing. But letting visitors experience it… that’s quite another. And video mapping makes that possible. It really brings your story to life. It adds emotional depth to your message. It creates those goosebumps moments. Take your visitors on a journey and let them experience just how wonderful your story or product really is.
- Attracting attention
If you want your visitors to notice it straight away, video mapping is perfect. And even more so when combined with background music. Are you launching a new product? Then make your new product literally emerge from the wall. Or ‘unbox it virtually’ on a special plinth. This will make the new product even more immersive and attract even more attention.
- Creating interaction
As we’ve mentioned before: combine video mapping with sound or other interactive features. This really enhances the visitor experience. Create fully interactive experiences and, for example, give the audience the chance to get involved. Ask them what they’d like 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:
- Stand out fromthe crowd
Think of it as colouring outside the lines. You’re doing something completely different from everyone else. It’s relatively new and therefore stands out. With video mapping, you make an instant impression.
- Creative freedom
As clichéd as it may sound: everything around you is your canvas. You’re not restricted to a rectangle or a standard screen. The possibilities are endless!
- No physical set required
Building a set takes time. And money. And, of course, space. You don’t always have that. With video mapping, you don’t need to make unnecessary investments, because you simply project onto an existing object. If done well, video mapping can really show off your event venue to its best advantage. - Sustainability
As far as we’re concerned, this is a huge advantage: sustainability. You need fewer physical materials, which makes video mapping a sustainable alternative. Less waste, less transport, fewer 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.
