HOW 3D PROJECTION
MAPPING WORKS

Okay let’s talk about how all of this magic works for a moment.

The recipe calls for any 3D object, at least one part projector, some form of computer, and a dashing of creative visual content.

The process is to then project these images or videos onto the surface of the 3D object. We then use computer software to precisely align the media to the object’s form resulting in a captivating and surreal visual effect known as 3D projection mapping.

Let’s explore the rest of the picture in detail below.

3D OBJECTS & ARCHITECTURE

Any object with a surface that can catch and reflect light is a good candidate for this effect.

Surfaces such as the exterior architecture of buildings, the interior walls, ceiling, and floors of venues and retail spaces, the set of a movie or music video, the stage of a live concert or theater production, and even massive water fountains, rock formations, and trees.

If the color and reflectivity of the surface are favorable we then consider the features and facets. For when the projected visuals interact with the windows, beams, edges, and lines of the object the effect really comes to life.

PROJECTOR

The projector is the star of the show for it connects the world of physical objects to the realm of infinite digital graphics.

From the camera obscura to the overhead classroom projector there have been many ways to structure and direct light over time.

The latest iteration of projector is that of the digital kind. These are simply incredible for they feature many inputs, lens options, brightnesses, and other features that make the process of adequately illuminating any given object an enjoyable and reliable process.

At Lumenarius we work exclusively with professional DLP & LCD laser based projectors that ensure high quality and vibrant images with low noise, power consumption, and maintenance needs which all afford ease of use and long lasting lifespan.

COMPUTER & SOFTWARE

The Lumen Server is the brains behind the operation and perfectly aligns the projected images to the features of the object using specialized software.

Computers are fascinating and one thing they do incredibly well is process images and video. This is our everyday activity and we enjoy the challenge of exploring and writing software that enables the effect of 3D projection mapping in many different forms.

For this we once again use the best equipment available that is specifically rated for high uptime professional use.

This results in computers that are absolute units when it comes to crunching huge numbers of pixels flawlessly night after night, year after year, in any environment - rain or champagne.

CONTENT CREATION

This is the fun part where the art meets the pixel through the infinite process of creating the graphics that are to be projected.

Any visual media from completely computer generated 3D scenes, to archival video footage, and even handmade stop motion animations are great ways to create the content.

Where the effect is taken to the next level is when this content matches the form, feel, and design of the space so that each window, column, and edge is accounted for and activated by the projections.

As a full production studio content creation is something we offer with every project. Though, if you have an in-house design team or would like to feature other artists our systems are open and accommodating.

CREATE THE INCREDIBLE

LIVE EVENTS

Elevate the visual appeal for the entire event!

Leave a lasting impression with your audience by hiring our company to produce an event defining projection mapping show for any conference, concert, gala, festival, or gathering

ENVIRONMENT

The weather, ambient lighting, dynamic of the space, and the duration of the project are all contexts that need to be carefully considered to ensure a successful experience.

The consideration and setup needed for an indoor project lasting a few hours compared to an installation that is to exist outside in the elements for years are vast in their differences.

This is where we bring deep experience to the table for our team has conducted hundreds of successful events and scores of long term installations that operate to this day.

Be sure to take a look at how we handle some of the most common environments below.