Video mapping and projection mapping are two names for the same thing: video shaped to fit a building or an object. Some use video mapping when LED screens are involved too. Plain projection throws a flat picture at a flat screen without adjusting to the surface. 3D mapping, without the word projection, is a digital model of a space.

Today we’re breaking down the key definitions and differences between these terms, helping you understand not just what they are, but when (and why) each one is used.

Projection

Projection is simply the act of casting content (which is usually light, images or video) onto a given surface as a form of visual display.

It is a common and relatively basic technique which makes use of light sources, mirrors and lenses to achieve the desired effect, and can take many forms, from projecting a film onto a wall in your own home to large scale projection screens in public or commercial settings.

The surfaces used for projection are flat and two dimensional, and if they have irregularities, the projection can look a little distorted, since the content is projected ‘as is’. Common examples of the type of content used are videos, presentation slides and documents.

Projection mapping

Projection mapping takes the basic premise of projection up several notches by turning any object at all in to a surface for content to be projected onto.

The ‘mapping’ part of the process refers to the way that specialised technology ‘maps’ the object or building that is being projected onto. Following this, content is aligned with the physical structure in a precise and detailed way using professional software.

Projection mapping involves far more sophisticated techniques than projection in order to allow the projected content to fit the irregular shape or surface of the projection canvas. These techniques are both creative and technical, and tend to require a specialist.

Projection mapping is most often used when describing projection onto 3D surfaces, but is occasionally discussed as being either 2D and 3D.

2D projection mapping

Projection mapping onto 2D surfaces would generally mean that while the surface is two dimensional, it could be irregularly shaped or has otherwise been precisely ‘mapped’ so that the content fits it exactly.

3D projection mapping

Projection mapping can also be used to great effect on 3D surfaces, whether they have clean edges or smooth curves. The projection could cover several ‘sides’ of the object or building, or the building as a whole, but would take into account the contours and depth of its shape, including any movement it might make.

360 projection mapping

360 projection mapping is a form of 3D projection mapping where the content covers all sides of the object, building or room. For example, it could be used to transform the ceiling, walls and floor of a room to make it appear as a completely different place. It’s therefore great for highly immersive experiences in marketing, events and educational settings.

Video mapping

Video mapping is mostly a term that is used interchangeably with projection mapping to mean the technique that projects content onto objects or buildings. However, it can sometimes be used specifically in situations where projection mapping is being used in conjunction with other video media types such as LED screens.

Other terms

There are a number of other terms that people occasionally confuse with projection mapping, but are not directly related:

Camera mapping: a technique used in media like film, TV or even games to create 3D scenes without needing to build full 3D environments.

Pixel mapping: a technique that involves applying content to a group of lighting fixtures, with the intention that the fixtures light up in different combinations to display the content.

LED screen: panels that emit light to create vibrant content displays. They can be used for events and marketing purposes, but are more closely aligned with a ‘screen’ than projection mapping is.

3D mapping: take the word projection out, and you’re looking at another thing altogether! 3D mapping is a technique that creates representations of spaces or objects. The result is a digital model for visualisation purposes, rather than something to be used as a display.

If you’re looking for any of these things, it’s probably not projection mapping you want.

Think projection mapping could work for your next project?

Whether you want to project onto the side of a building or build a full 360 room, we can make it happen.

We’ve projected onto Stonehenge, the walls of an IKEA store and a LEGO display, and we’d love to create WOW moments for you too. Take a look at our projection mapping case studies or get in touch to discuss your next project.