Projection mapping is an exciting way to bring buildings, landmarks, and events to life but if you’ve never done it before, it’s easy to underestimate what’s involved. Whether you’re a town council planning a winter lights trail, a university marking a special anniversary, or a brand looking to wow an audience, a successful project starts with careful planning. At The Projection Studio, we’ve delivered hundreds of shows around the world from historic cathedrals to city-wide festivals and we know what it takes to make an idea shine.
Here are five key things to think about and how we can help you get them right.
1. Know Your Canvas (The Building Matters More Than You Think)
Not all walls are created equal. The building or surface you’re projecting onto whether it’s a stately town hall, a cathedral, or a modern shopping centre shapes everything from the content design to the equipment setup.
One council we worked with discovered their chosen façade had too many glass sections, so we adjusted our content and projector layout to suit.
Our approach: We always conduct a detailed site survey early in the process. This helps identify lighting challenges, texture issues, access restrictions and the best projection angles, so there are no surprises later on.
2. What’s the Story You’re Telling?
It’s easy to think “we just want it to look cool” but the best projection mapping projects have a clear purpose. Are you trying to educate? Celebrate? Inspire footfall or tourism? The clearer your goals, the easier it is to design something meaningful.
We’ve helped clients share community histories, launch festivals, and honour local heroes each one started with a simple idea.
Our approach: We’ll help you shape your story and translate it into powerful visual content. Whether you come to us with a detailed brief or a scribble on a napkin we’ll make sure your message lands.
3. Content Will Make or Break It
This is where the magic happens. The visuals, the music, the animation—these turn a projection into a shared experience. Our advice? Don’t skimp here. Compelling storytelling and creative design are what leave audiences talking.
Our approach: Our in-house creatives and technical artists specialise in building projection. We create custom, high-quality animations tailored to your space, audience and objectives—from start to finish.
4. Consider Timing, Weather, and Audience Flow
Outdoor projections rely on more than just visuals. Conditions like ambient light, weather, or even crowd flow can impact the experience. Winter evenings are ideal thanks to early darkness but it’s equally important to consider where people will stand, how they’ll move, and how to keep them safe.
Our approach: We plan holistically, supporting everything from scheduling to crowd planning. We’ll advise on the best times, angles and technical set-up to ensure your audience gets the best view whatever the conditions.
5. Get the Technicals Right Or Let Us Handle It
From projector brightness to software alignment, the technical execution can make or break the entire show. This is often the most daunting part for first-time clients.
Our approach: We take care of everything from kit to crew. Our experienced technical team manages all logistics, ensuring a smooth and seamless projection that’s sharp, safe, and spectacular.
Thinking About Projection Mapping for Your Building or Event?
You don’t need all the answers to get started just an idea. Whether you’re exploring something for the first time or planning your next big cultural moment, The Projection Studio is here to help.
Let’s have a chat about your project. We’ll help you imagine what’s possible and make it happen.
