When you plan events, mesmerizing attendees tends to be high on your list of priorities. These days, you have a technological tool to help you get there: projection mapping.
With projection mapping, you can transform any surface—walls, dance floors, or tables—into an immersive, interactive display. With it, an anniversary couple might watch their wedding day memories unfold on the walls. Corporate party guests could be captivated by an animated presentation of their company’s journey projected onto the venue's main stage.
Want more razzle dazzle? Look into 3D projection mapping, which allows you to project images or videos onto non-flat surfaces like a car or a sculptural installation.
Projection mapping relies on video projectors, while 3D projection mapping utilizes specialized software to align content on irregular surfaces without distortion.
Then there’s the option of immersive projection mapping. This takes it a step further by using virtual reality (VR) technology to transform every surface in your venue. Picture transporting corporate event attendees to your company’s overseas headquarters or creating a fully immersive brand experience that envelops them in your story.
“Projection mapping immerses consumers into an experience,” said Paul Whitney, executive producer at bluemedia, in an interview with Business News Daily. “Research has shown that millennials, in particular, would rather invest in an experience than a product.”
AN EVENT PLANNER’S SUPERPOWER
For event planners looking to deliver unforgettable events, projection mapping offers endless possibilities.
Projection mapping can be tailored for specific events, themes, or brand identities. At a wedding, you can use it to display the couple’s love story across the venue’s walls. At a gala for a nonprofit, you could project impactful visuals that showcase the organization's mission and success stories.
This approach is not necessarily cost-prohibitive, either. In fact, projection mapping can replace expensive set pieces, lighting, or décor.
One of projection mapping’s greatest strengths is that it involves attendees. When they experience interactive visuals or immersive environments, they feel like they’re part of the event.
CREATIVE POSSIBILITIES
What do you think about transforming your corporate event’s stage into a futuristic landscape? Or, how about creating a dance floor that reacts to guests’ every step? Projection mapping makes these experiences possible.
Need some inspiration?
How about the corporate event held at Temple House in Miami? Organizers had the projection change for each meal course, displaying scenes in Asia, Europe, South America, and the United States where the company had offices. For the Istanbul, Turkey-theme course, projections displayed the Basilica Cistern. The planners enhanced the experience by pairing music with the projections and courses.
Then there’s the Star Awards, an annual event held in Singapore, where the media company Mediacorp recognizes entertainers for outstanding performances throughout the year. The 2018 edition featured an exceptional dome projection mapping display, executed with precision and remarkable results.
Another stunning example: In November 2016, Megavision Arts turned a 53,000-square-foot tent at a royal wedding in Qatar into a breathtaking, living artwork. A 30- by 360-foot plywood wall was constructed in front of the tent and draped in white muslin fabric, creating the perfect canvas for projection. As guests arrived, they were greeted by a striking 3D black-and-white animation that rippled across the surface, set to a custom musical score.
INCORPORATING PROJECTION MAPPING INTO YOUR EVENT PLANNING WORKFLOW
Projection mapping can take your event design to the next level, but it requires careful planning and coordination. Here are some tips for integrating it seamlessly:
Consult with Tech Experts
To make the most of projection mapping, it’s best to collaborate with experts who specialize in this technology. Projection mapping specialists or audiovisual teams will be able to guide you through the technical requirements, help with content creation, and advise on equipment needs based on your event’s specific goals. Don’t wait until the last minute—engage these experts early so your projection mapping will integrate smoothly with your overall event design.
Assess Venue Suitability
Not every venue is ideal for projection mapping, so it’s important to evaluate whether your chosen space can support this type of technology. Consider the surfaces where projections will appear—walls, ceilings, or floors—and whether they’re large, flat, or textured. Lighting conditions are also key; a dark or controlled lighting environment works best for crisp visuals. Additionally, think about space requirements for setting up projectors and other equipment. These factors will influence how the projection mapping will be executed and how immersive the final experience will be.
Build It into Your Timeline and Preparation
To avoid last-minute surprises, build the setup and testing time into your event timeline from the start. This includes designing the projection content, mapping it to your venue’s surfaces, and conducting rehearsals to test for any potential issues with alignment or distortion.
The Bell Tower on 34th is an elegant event space with valet parking and onsite security serving the Greater Houston area. Our central location is a short drive from the Galleria area and the Houston Heights area.
Learn more about holding a corporate event here.
The Bell Tower on 34th
901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018
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