Video projection mapping (or VPM) is the use of software to create 3D projections of images, usually for live events. A projector is used to illuminate an image onto a surface in 3D. Projection mapping is what happens when you combine live video feeds with software, hardware, and digital art. It’s the same basic concept as VJing, but on a much larger scale. At first glance it might not seem like an exciting idea, but once you get your hands on some high quality projection mapping hardware and software, you’ll be able to impress everyone with the next crazy dance party (no need for fancy costumes!)
If you’re looking to start a project in video projection mapping, check out the live streaming footage below. In this Live Video Projection | Video Map article, we’ll cover what you need to know when setting up a live video streaming footage. There are a lot of things you have to think about when doing a live stream.
Mapping Matter
Mapping Matter is a web-based video mapping tool with advanced, error-free planning and simulation features.
This is one of the best options when it comes to convenience. You can start working right away, from your browser, without any installation. Moreover, the toolset is easy to understand even if you are not accustomed to the workflow of similar 3D tools.
Mapping Matter lets users generate quick PDF documentation based on their model. It has annotations options if you need to add any further information. This feature can create detailed projector spec lists.
This online mapping tool allows you to interact with projectors by providing throw ratios settings, projection beams width adjustments, lock targets, and more.
Mapping Matter has some basic parametric geometries options, but it does not support full 3D modeling. It supports already made models and helps you add the settings necessary for projection. This tool is compatible with 3D .obj models.
The tool allows to change directional and ambient lighting, create symmetries, apply textures on objects, and more.
Other key features include:
- Endless undo
- Large pattern library
- Projection distance assistance
Mapping Matter is subscription-based with monthly charges. It has dedicated plans for individual users and for teams. It does provide a 14-day free trial.
HeavyM Live
HeavyM is a relatively new entrant into the world of video mapping software. Created solely for the purpose of creating mapping based shows. It’s easy to get started and fairly intuitive to use. Not as powerful as other the previously mentioned tools, but HeavyM is carving a niche by allowing artists to easily map and generate content using the software. A good starting point tool for smaller shows, night clubs and other such live performances where you want to generate content quickly. We all know how difficult it can be to create content for your mapping projects. You could download video mapping loops or use HeavyM which makes it so easy to create content, you can create new video mapping setups for your live shows each time you perform. One of the best software for live video mapping. Allowing you to transform any space according to your needs. Easily create various shapes and map the output to your projector. HeavyM comes with a library of effects and animations that you can use. Built-in audio analysis. Drawing tools for that perfect pixel map. Create a timeline show. HeavyM was built for vj’s who create video mapping shows.
Visution Mapio
Verdict: Visution Mapio is one of the most popular projection mapping software. It will help you to create an outstanding video mapping show. The main advantage of this software is that it lets you use a standard display and all kinds of slopes, spheres, and cylindrical shapes. Visution Mapio will adjust to any surface that you are using to show your video clip on.
Also, it can be used for 3D live projection mapping projections, allowing you to carry out even the most complicated project. In case of technical failure, the software will automatically save and restore your work. Besides, you can edit files, import various formats, make screenshots and edit vector graphics.
Isadora
Verdict: Isadora is another decent video mapping software that allows you to take advantage of the advanced technology. It is a combination of a media server, a visual programming environment and powerful tools that let you process video and audio content for interactive playback. This software broadcasts all kinds of videos from any website, including the best video streaming services.
This projection mapping software is perfect when you need to display video clips onto the facades of buildings and historical constructions. During the playback, it takes into account all the peculiarities of construction to avoid any possible distortions. Isadora supports various protocols, like TCP / IP, OSC, Serial, DMX, MIDI, Art-net, which allows for an interactive real-time control with minimal latency.
MadMapper
Verdict: When creating a list of the software for easy projection mapping, it is impossible not to mention MadMapper. This is a simple and comfortable tool for the highest-quality video mapping. MadMapper can be used for architectural projection mapping, artistic installations, stage decoration and live performances. The software comes with a high-speed video player, which ensures superior quality streaming without latency.
It will help you to project a video onto any surface an unlimited number of times, using as many projectors as your graphics card can support. The developers of MadMapper release updates regularly, so you can take advantage of its customizable UI, live editor for coding and an online library that allows you to exchange your materials with other users.
Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro is a software tool well known for its great video editing features and because it can handle pretty much all of the editing you may need.
You can also use this one for creating video mapping. Moreover, with Premiere Pro, you can edit footage in any format, from 8K to virtual reality.
The software can work with any file format you have, no matter it came from your phone or from a professional camera. The lightweight proxy workflows and faster ProRes HDR let you work the way you want with your media, even on mobile workstations.
With Adobe Premiere Pro is relatively easy to map simple shapes and to create a linear timeline. Thus, it is a good choice, no matter if you are new or already a professional in the industry.
The video projection mapping features within Premiere Pro let you add advanced sequencing and layering. If your project also has audio tracks, you can easily import those and get real-time previews of how they go along with the visual effects.
Premiere Pro has a decent library of stock audio tracks that you can use in your project. It also has motion graphics templates.
Other key features include:
- Supports all video file formats
- Advanced color and lightning options
- Easy sequence creation feature
Premiere Pro is a subscription-based service. You can try it for free for 7 days.
Adobe After Effects
Adobe After Effects is another great software, part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite’s tool. It is capable of producing stunning works of visual art and is the video industry standard for visual effects and motion graphics.
This software can be used successfully as mapping software and functions fairly well in relation to creating masks, shapes, manipulating clips, etc.
Its new feature, 3D Transform Gizmo, allows you to scale, position, and rotate 3D layers. This multifunctional gizmo offers more power when navigating 3D due to the visual guides and multiple modes.
There are many great free or paid plugins for camera projection mapping and photo parallax animation. Adobe After Effects allows you to install them.
After Effects can connect to your projector and set it as your display output. You can select the specific resolution of the surface you want to project onto and start adding and editing video mapping effects.
You can easily add 3D objects and use advanced masking in your composition. After Effects also has straightforward drawing options and 3D objects features.
Other key features include:
- Preset animations
- Motion graphic templates
- 3D geometry and depth support
Adobe After Effects is a subscription service. You can get it as a standalone software, or get a Creative Cloud subscription that offers additional Adobe products. All of these tools work seamlessly together. You can try After Effects for free for 7 days.
Conclusion:
Mapping, projecting, mixing, and creating video seems to be a lost art these days. But there is still one thing you can do for your live event projects: bring the power of mapping and projection to your shoulder camera setup with these software.