Mapping vs Masking: The nerdy stuff that makes projection magic

First: What is Video Mapping?

Video Mapping (also called projection mapping) is where the fun starts.
It’s about matching your video to the real-world surface. Think windows, doors, columns, weird angles every element of a building or object can be mapped, so your visuals hug the architecture instead of just sitting on top of it.

In other words:
The wall becomes part of the show.
Not just a flat screen, but a living, moving shape.

What it does:
– Lets you animate parts of the building separately
– Adds depth, motion and visual punch
– Creates the illusion that the building is alive

Example:

• Windows light up one by one
• A door bursts open in video
• The whole building “melts”, shakes or cracks open

Then: What is Masking?

Masking is the ninja move. While mapping lets you fit visuals to a surface, masking hides parts of your projection, so only the bits you want are visible.

Think of it like cutting holes in your video beam:
you block out areas you don’t want light on (trees, windows, street signs), and you focus all the power on the parts that matter.

What it does:
– Avoids projecting where it’s not needed
– Keeps visuals clean and precise
– Focuses attention
– Makes you look pro instead of messy

Example:

• Only the central facade lights up side walls stay dark
• A logo floats perfectly on one part of the wall
• Complex animations land exactly where they should

Why You Need Both

Here’s the deal:
Mapping = creative magic. Masking = technical precision.
You need both if you want your projection to hit hard and clean.

Without mapping → your video looks like a YouTube clip sprayed on a wall.
Without masking → your video bleeds everywhere and loses focus.

With both → the building becomes the screen. The audience gasps. Phones come out. Mission accomplished.