Definition and Examples of Video Mapping

O que é o mapeamento de vídeo?

Video mapping is a projection technique used to transform objects and elements into display surfaces for video projection. This method, which emerged in the 2000s, involves projecting videos and visual animations by playing with the irregularities of volumes using one or more projectors.

The goal of mapping is to create optical illusions by placing visual content on static volumes.

The projection surface is the fundamental distinction between 2D and 3D video mapping.

Even though the terminology might not be widely known to the public, the examples we can provide are sufficiently clear.

Indeed, monumental mapping—the projection of videos onto monuments—is the most well-known form of video mapping. It takes 3D elements into account and therefore uses 3D video mapping.

Fête des Lumières 2016 - “Evolutions” - Yann Nhuema et EZ3kiel - https://yannnguema.com/mapping-evolutions
Fête des Lumières 2016 – “Evolutions” – Yann Nhuema et EZ3kiel – https://yannnguema.com/mapping-evolutions

2D mapping is generally done on flat or curved surfaces where the measurable dimensions are length and height. When working with objects and textured surfaces, 3D video mapping is used to account for depth and other spatial characteristics.

In general, the three-dimensional factor brings more attention and interest to the creation. The greater the dimensional interest, the more spectacular and relevant the video mapping becomes. A 3D video mapping inherently generates more value and truly comes to life.

Indeed, moving from 2D to 3D enhances the audience’s experience.

For example, here are some of alguns dos mais excepcionais video mappings 3D..

For What Types of Projects?

Originally, building facades

AV Extended - Chateau de Vincennes - 2020 - https://av-extended.com/work/chateau-de-vincennes/
AV Extended – Chateau de Vincennes – 2020 – https://av-extended.com/work/chateau-de-vincennes/

We know that video mapping can be applied to absolutely any physical element—anything from the infinitely small to the gigantic. For the latter, the market is dominated by major players in the audiovisual industry. They create massive works by combining multiple high-performance projectors for a single project. The visual result is exceptional, and so is the financial cost.

The major players in the audiovisual industry are typically technical providers who supply the essential technology for large-scale experiences. They collaborate with creative agencies to produce the audiovisual content that will be projected.

The studio is responsible for creating 3D content that will fit the building perfectly and exclusively. The studio receives plans, photos, or drawings in any format so they can work on them before the event. The content creation process is crucial, and it is often offered as a service by audiovisual companies.

Video Mapping for All Projects

Por outro lado, video mapping software has democratized this discipline, once reserved for technical experts, by making it accessible to a wider audience. Video mapping is now available to professionals, event agencies, established artists, and entertainment specialists.

Aqui estão alguns exemplos:

This stone quarry mapping is a real-time audiovisual performance where music and imagery are created live underground.

In this five-part journey, the visuals are linked to sound using audio data that drives generative patches in TouchDesigner.

Creative technologist Data.Flaw created an exciting gamified experience. He took interactivity to the next level by connecting a PlayStation 5 controller to HeavyM 2 via OSC.

To continue

Links and Differences with VJing

This guide was written by HeavyM, a company specializing in video mapping since 2013.

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