Intro to Projection Mapping, Step by Step Guide for Beginners, Tutorial

Steve Lucin

Feb 253 min read

Learn the Art of Digital Projection with MadMapper & Resolume Arena

🎥 Welcome to the world of Projection Mapping! Whether you're a VJ, DJ, event producer, or digital artist, projection mapping can transform ordinary surfaces into immersive visual experiences. At Halucinated Studios, we specialize in event branding, projection mapping, and live visuals for nightlife brands, music festivals, and experiential marketing. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know to get started with Projection Mapping using MadMapper & Resolume Arena.

Let’s dive in!

What is Projection Mapping?

Projection mapping is a video projection technique where visuals are mapped onto physical objects like buildings, stages, and even non-flat surfaces. It’s used in:

✅ Concerts & Music Festivals – Visuals synced to DJ sets 🎶
✅ Corporate Events – Immersive branding & marketing experiences 📢
✅ Art Installations – 3D mapping on sculptures & architecture 🎨
✅ Interactive Exhibits – Audience-engaging experiences 🔥

Instead of projecting onto a basic screen, projection mapping allows you to transform any object into a dynamic display.

🛠️ Getting Started with Projection Mapping

Step 1: Choosing the Right Projector

Not all projectors are the same! You’ll need to consider:

🔹 Throw Ratio & Distance

Long-Throw Projectors → Require a lot of space, best for large venues.
Short-Throw Projectors → Perfect for small spaces & tight setups.
Ultra-Short-Throw Projectors → Can project a huge image from just inches away.

🔹 Brightness & Lumens

3,000 lumens → Ideal for indoor events & small rooms.
10,000+ lumens → Great for large-scale events.
30,000+ lumens → Used for outdoor festivals & building projections.

🔹 LCD vs. Laser Projectors

LCD projectors = Affordable, but less bright.
Laser projectors = Brighter & sharper images for professional mapping.

Pro Tip: If you’re mapping indoors, 3,000-5,000 lumens should be enough. For outdoor events, go for at least 10,000 lumens!

Step 2: Preparing Your Content for Projection

For the best results, your video files should be:

1920x1080 resolution (Full HD) – Standard for most projectors.
HAP or DXV Codec – Ensures smooth performance (MP4 is not ideal for real-time VJing).
Organized in Folders – Helps with quick access during live shows.
Logos in White – White projects better than black.

Pro Tip: Convert your files using Shutter Encoder.

Step 3: Setting Up Your Projector & Display Settings

🔌 Connect Your Projector to Your Laptop

Use HDMI or USB-C adapters if needed.

🖥️ Adjust Display Settings

Mac Users: Go to System Preferences → Displays.
Windows Users: Go to Display Settings → Extend Display (DO NOT mirror).

Pro Tip: Always extend your display, so your laptop screen stays separate from the projector output.

🎛️ Step 4: Using MadMapper for Projection Mapping

🔹 Interface Overview

MadMapper is the industry standard for projection mapping. Here’s what you’ll use:

Dual View Mode – Left side = Input, Right side = Output.
Surfaces Panel – Create squares, circles, and triangles for projection.
Media Import – Drag in videos, images, and live inputs.

🔹 How to Map a Surface in MadMapper

Step 1: Create a projection surface (square, triangle, or custom shape).
Step 2: Drag and drop a video or animation onto the surface.
Step 3: Adjust size, rotation, brightness, and contrast.
Step 4: Press “Full Screen Mode” to output your visuals to the projector.

Pro Tip: You can use your FaceTime camera as a live input to create interactive effects!

✂️ Step 5: Masking & Layering Techniques

Sometimes, you don’t want your projection to cover everything (e.g., doors, objects). Masking allows you to block out certain areas.

How to Mask in MadMapper:

Go to the Mask Tool (bottom left panel).
Select the area you want to hide (e.g., a door or wall).
Click ‘Invert Mask’ if you want to project only on that cutout area.

Pro Tip: Think of MadMapper layers like Photoshop – move elements forward or backward for layering effects.

🎚️ Step 6: Advanced Mapping Techniques

Once you have the basics, you can level up your projection mapping skills!

Create 3D Cube Mapping Effects – Use shadow and light illusions.
Multiple Projectors – Blend images across multiple surfaces.
Keystone & Corner Pinning – Adjust projections on non-flat surfaces.
MIDI Controllers – Map MIDI controllers for live visuals & DJ sync.

Pro Tip: Use the “Highlight Background” tool to find hidden mapping areas on your surface!

🚀 Conclusion: Time to Get Creative!

Projection Mapping is an incredible tool for events, live performances, and brand activations. Whether you're a VJ, DJ, or digital artist, mastering MadMapper & Resolume Arena will take your visuals to the next level!