What is Projection Mapping?

Turn any surface into a moving canvas with 3D projection mapping!

To put it simply, projection mapping is the art of mapping video content onto any shape or surface. The art lies in lining up the imagery without distortion to enhance the objects they are beamed onto. It gives the audience the feeling that the images are real and right in front of them.

With video mapping technology, everyday objects from mannequins to skyscrapers can be transformed into an illusionary wonder. Any space can be turned into an awe-inspiring fantasyworld.

Contact us and let us bring your vision to life. No project is too big.

How It's Done?

How is Projection Mapping Done?

Using a combination of a playback device, projector and a projector surface, we can take a base object, map the projection onto it, and transform it into a multidimensional video screen.

Projection Mapping Capabilities & Applications

Interactive Projection

Interactive projection mapping allows one to use stimuli, such as movement, touch, or an object, to manipulate the digitally projected content. The interactive projection uses sensors to track users’ movements and projects imagery onto surfaces, altering color and sound. This technology can create immersive and interactive environments. Some of the most popular forms of interactive projections are games, museum exhibits, and educational opportunities.

Building Projection

Building projection mapping creates an illusion of lights and imagery projected directly onto the surfaces of buildings and other structures. This is achieved using high-powered projectors to cast lighting effects, graphics, and video onto the complex shapes and facades of architectural buildings. Projection mapping transforms these structures into display canvases for advertising campaigns or artistic purposes like public light shows or interactive art installations. One innovative use was by the Lumen & Forge team, who broke the record for the world’s largest video game screen using the facade of the Tropicana casino.

Close-up of a Bitmain Antminer mining rig displayed at the WDMS Cryptocurrency Trade Show, illuminated with high-tech projection mapping for an immersive visual effect.

Object Mapping

Object projection mapping is one of our team’s specialties, where we apply our innovative technology to transform three-dimensional objects into captivating visual displays. The process requires precise calibration using our projectors to cast customized content onto irregularly shaped items—from consumer products and vehicles to furniture and art installations. By carefully mapping the object’s surface geometry, our expert designers are able create pixel-perfect projections that follow every contour, making static objects appear to move, change color, or display intricate patterns.

Immersive dining experience at X Pot Las Vegas inside The Venetian, featuring 360-degree projection mapping that transforms the restaurant into a multi-sensory culinary journey.

Projection Rooms

Projection rooms transform entire spaces into immersive digital environments through seamless 360-degree projection mapping. By covering walls, ceilings, and floors with perfectly aligned projections, these installations create fully encompassing experiences where viewers feel transported into another world. This technology excels in creating interactive spaces for museums, retail environments, art installations, and entertainment venues. Projection rooms can simulate environments, tell stories, or create abstract artistic experiences that surround and engage visitors from every angle. From immersive restaurant experiences to 360-degree corporate showrooms, projection rooms offer endless possibilities for creating memorable, multi-sensory experiences.

3D projection mapping on the Luxor Sphinx in Las Vegas, featuring digital grid overlays and dynamic lighting effects as part of an experiential marketing campaign inside the Luxor Hotel & Casino.

3D Projection Mapping

3D Projection mapping turns any surface or object into a live canvas. This technique requires the production of content that is custom made for the object in mind. We can use an existing surface or fabricate a new one from scratch. Complex methods such as photogrammetry can be used to create an accurate 3D rendering of the projection surface before content production begins. Custom content is strategically mapped to the projection surface to create a flawless optical illusion. Whether you want to bring your product to life in a realistic way or create an otherworldly experience, we have the tools and expertise to make it happen.

People immersed in the Dreambox 360 custom content experience by Lumen & Forge, surrounded by vibrant digital projections and dynamic laser lights in an interactive, futuristic space.

4D Immersive Theater FX

4D immersive theater effects enhance projection experiences by engaging multiple senses beyond sight and hearing. These systems coordinate visual content with tactile, olfactory, and kinesthetic stimuli to create comprehensive environmental simulations.

Key components include synchronized spatial audio, environmental generators (wind, temperature, water mist), scent diffusion technology, and motion-activated seating with hydraulic or pneumatic systems. Precise control systems integrate these elements with millisecond accuracy, ensuring sensory effects align perfectly with projected content.

Applications range from brand experiences and educational environments to entertainment venues and training simulations, with configurations adaptable to various spatial and audience requirements.

Close-up of a Bitmain Antminer mining rig displayed at the WDMS Cryptocurrency Trade Show, illuminated with high-tech projection mapping for an immersive visual effect.

Object Mapping

Object projection mapping is one of our team’s specialties, where we apply our innovative technology to transform three-dimensional objects into captivating visual displays. The process requires precise calibration using our projectors to cast customized content onto irregularly shaped items—from consumer products and vehicles to furniture and art installations. By carefully mapping the object’s surface geometry, our expert designers are able create pixel-perfect projections that follow every contour, making static objects appear to move, change color, or display intricate patterns.

Projection Murals

Projection murals are an art form that uses projection mapping to turn ordinary surfaces into dynamic, interactive canvases. By projecting images and videos onto walls, floors, and other surfaces, projection murals can transform any space into a living, breathing work of art. In addition to adding visual interest, projection murals are used to tell stories, convey messages, or create a sense of fun and excitement. Thanks to their versatility and potential for customization, projection murals have become increasingly popular in recent years, popping up in urban spaces worldwide.

Projection Murals

Projection murals are an art form that uses projection mapping to turn ordinary surfaces into dynamic, interactive canvases. By projecting images and videos onto walls, floors, and other surfaces, projection murals can transform any space into a living, breathing work of art. In addition to adding visual interest, projection murals are used to tell stories, convey messages, or create a sense of fun and excitement. Thanks to their versatility and potential for customization, projection murals have become increasingly popular in recent years, popping up in urban spaces worldwide.

Featured Projects

Nike Building Projection at NBA All Stars 2023

Salt Lake City, UT

We projected content for the Nike Air Jordan brand across an entire building next to the Vivint Arena during the 2023 NBA All-Stars game.

World's Largest Video Game Screen at the Tropicana

Las Vegas, NV

Shattered the previous record using state-of-the-art projection to create a colossal, globally streamed gaming spectacle.

Caterpillar's Immersive Technology Hub at CONEXPO

Las Vegas, NV

Created a cutting-edge showcase featuring interactive exhibits, holographic displays, and immersive projection environments.

McLaren x Mastercard - Projection Mapping the Stratosphere

Las Vegas, NV

We used 30 high-powered Panasonic projectors to project on the Stratosphere for McLaren x Mastercard during Forumula 1.

Toyota Convention Projection Mapping

Las Vegas, NV

Large-scale projection mapping at Mandalay Bay Convention Center for Toyota at their National Toyota Dealer Meeting.

Nat Geo Exhibit at Disney's D23 Convention

Anaheim, CA

At Nat Geo's Beneath the Blue immersive exhibit, we used 360 projection to bring the multi-sensory experience of being underwater to life.

Projection Mapping FAQ

What is projection mapping, and how does it work?

Projection mapping is an innovative display technology that allows us to project dynamic visual content onto various surfaces, including buildings, stages, and three-dimensional objects. Using specialized software, we align 3D content precisely to the surface, creating immersive optical illusions that captivate audiences.

The Process:

  • Surface Mapping: The process starts with creating a 3D model or outline of the surface to be projected on, ensuring the visuals align perfectly with its contours.
  • Content Creation: Custom animations, videos, and graphics are designed to interact with the unique shape and texture of the surface, enhancing depth and realism.
  • Projection Calibration: Projectors are strategically positioned and calibrated for angle, focus, and brightness to ensure seamless visual integration.
  • Live Execution: The final projection is synchronized with audio, lighting, or live performances to create an immersive, multi-sensory experience.

What surfaces can projection mapping be used on?

Projection mapping is incredibly versatile and can transform almost any surface into a dynamic visual display. It can be applied to a wide range of environments, including:

  • Buildings & Architectural Facades: From skyscrapers to historic landmarks, large-scale projections turn architecture into immersive storytelling canvases.
  • Stages & Theater Backdrops: Perfect for concerts, theatrical performances, and live shows, adding depth and motion to the stage.
  • Vehicles & Moving Objects: Cars, trucks, and even drones can be mapped to create interactive brand experiences or product showcases.
  • Domes & Curved Surfaces: Spherical and irregular shapes offer unique immersive opportunities, often used in planetariums, art installations, and branded domes.
  • Floors & Ceilings: Transform event spaces with dynamic floor and ceiling projections, ideal for dance floors, trade shows, and experiential exhibits.

For 360-degree video projections, specialized mapping techniques allow seamless visuals to wrap around entire environments. Whether on spherical domes or full-room interiors, this technology surrounds viewers with content from all angles, delivering a truly immersive experience.

What is the difference between standard projection mapping and 3D projection mapping?

Standard projection mapping is designed for flat surfaces or simple shapes, aligning video content to a fixed plane.
3D projection mapping, on the other hand, involves mapping content onto complex, three-dimensional objects, adjusting for depth, perspective, and texture to create ultra-realistic optical illusions.

What is the difference between projection mapping and 360-degree projection?

Projection mapping is the process of projecting visuals onto any surface, including flat walls, 3D objects, and buildings.

360-degree projection, on the other hand, fully surrounds an audience in an immersive environment, often using domes or enclosed rooms. This creates a seamless visual experience without the need for VR headset

What are some limitations of projection mapping?

Projection mapping is a powerful tool, but it does have some constraints:

  • Lighting conditions: Best viewed in low-light or dark environments, as bright ambient light can reduce visibility.
  • Projection surfaces: Uneven, highly reflective, or transparent surfaces may require special adjustments or treatments.
  • Setup complexity: Large-scale projects require careful planning, technical expertise, and advanced equipment.

How do you weatherproof a projection setup?

Outdoor projection setups must be protected against wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. Our solutions include:

  • Custom weatherproof enclosures for projectors and media servers.
  • Proper ventilation systems to prevent overheating.
  • Secure mounting structures to withstand wind and environmental conditions.

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