Mercury Sound and Lighting

Professional Audio, Lighting, Staging and Video

Video Mapping

Setting the Stage with Visual Brilliance

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Creating Immersive Environments that Captivate and Amaze

When it comes to hosting an unforgettable event, the visual experience plays a pivotal role in captivating your audience. At Mercury Sound & Lighting, we pride ourselves on offering state-of-the-art visual solutions that go beyond expectations. In this blog post, we invite you to discover how our cutting-edge technology, including projection mapping and high-definition LED displays, can transform any venue into an immersive wonderland that leaves attendees in awe.

1. Projection Mapping: Unleashing the Power of Spatial Illusions

Projection mapping is an artistic technique that enables us to transform ordinary surfaces into dynamic, visually captivating canvases. By carefully mapping and aligning projected images with the contours of buildings, stages, or objects, we create an awe-inspiring illusion that brings static elements to life. From jaw-dropping animations to breathtaking storytelling, projection mapping turns any event into an immersive experience like no other.

2. High-Definition LED Displays: Crisp, Vibrant, and Larger-than-Life Visuals

Step into the future of visual technology with our high-definition LED displays. These cutting-edge screens provide unparalleled image quality, delivering crisp, vibrant visuals that capture every detail. Whether it’s a massive LED video wall or strategically placed displays throughout the venue, our LED solutions create a visually stunning environment that immerses attendees in a world of color, motion, and excitement.

3. Creating Ambiance with Lighting Design

Visual brilliance goes beyond just displays and projections; it encompasses the entire ambiance of your event. Our team of talented lighting designers expertly crafts lighting schemes that evoke the desired mood and atmosphere. From dramatic spotlights and dynamic color transitions to synchronized lighting effects that complement the event’s theme, our lighting design expertise enhances every moment, creating an immersive visual experience that resonates with your audience.

4. Tailored Visual Solutions for Any Event

At Mercury, we understand that each event is unique, and your vision deserves to be brought to life in a way that aligns perfectly with your goals. Our team of skilled professionals will work closely with you to understand your event objectives and design custom visual solutions that amplify your message and captivate your audience. With our flexible and versatile technology, we can create stunning visual experiences for conferences, product launches, trade shows, concerts, and more.

5. The Power of Visual Storytelling

Visual brilliance goes beyond aesthetics; it has the power to tell stories and evoke emotions. Through carefully curated visual content and storytelling techniques, we can create a narrative that resonates with your audience on a deeper level. From dynamic video presentations to immersive multimedia experiences, we harness the power of visual storytelling to engage and leave a lasting impression on attendees.

When it comes to hosting a memorable event, setting the stage with visual brilliance is essential. At Mercury Sound & Lighting, our state-of-the-art visual solutions, including projection mapping and high-definition LED displays, empower us to create immersive environments that captivate and amaze. From visually stunning animations to breathtaking lighting designs, we go above and beyond to transform any venue into a world of visual wonder. Contact us today, and let’s bring your event to life with visual brilliance that will leave a lasting impact on your audience.

Remember, at Mercury, we believe that the power of visual experiences goes beyond what meets the eye – it creates memories that last a lifetime.

Mercury- Audio/Video/Lighting – Illuminating Events with Unforgettable Visuals.

Follow us on Instagram! Also check out the article on Using Audio Visual Tech to Enhance an Outdoor Space.

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Projection Mapping and Budgeting for Your Next Event

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Amazing 3D-Mapping, Projectors, Budgets, and Planning Tips

Projection Mapping at Dlectricity 2021 in Detroit Michigan by Mercury Sound and Light
3D Projection Mapping in Detroit, Michigan at dLectricity 2021 done by Mercury Sound and Light

Projection Mapping Planning Challenge

There is no doubt that projection mapping creates a lasting effect on evening events.  And the lasting effect, social media posts, and word-of-mouth stories they create underscore why they are both important and justified in your event toolbox.   But the biggest questions we get from event planners relate to what it takes to get started and ultimately, how much will everything cost.

Outlining every aspect of projection mapping truly is dependent on several factors including how big is your canvas, how long is your story, and for what duration will it run.  These elements highlight the considerations that affect timing and price.  Too often teams don’t consider adequate preparation time.  Or, in other cases, over anticipate how much time is required for simple effects and event amplification.

Here are a few tips that might help you in your planning for your next big event.

Telling the Story

What do you expect to say about your experience?  Will it be a few words and high visuals?  Will there be sound?  Does the content already exist, or will it need to be created?  As a general rule of thumb, high-end coordinated experiences with audio and video will run between $8,000 to $20,000+ per minute.  Additionally, there are many less expensive options, but you get what you pay for.  Another important consideration is how much manipulation does your content provider need to do?  How much content will they need to create from scratch?

Our recommendation is to pick competent and experienced content creators.  They will know how to quote your story’s creation effectively.  Your price will be driven by the complexity of the story.  If you need to create assets (and you likely will) there is creative time and animation expertise that will be required.  Just as you don’t want to ask the chef to speed up your meal, recognize that projection mapping is a creative process.  Give content the opportunity to run the creative course and will be amazed at the final outcome.

Projection mapping at Detroit Train Station now the Ford Motor Company World Headquarters.
Projection Mapping at the Detroit Train Station

Consider the Space 

The canvas you choose dictates two important characteristics.  First, the extent of content needed.  How much content will be required to cover this surface?  How intricate and detailed will it need to be?  Second, how much tech will be required to properly cover the space?  Sometimes we think movie theater approach.  How many projectors are required for that awesome film and your local cinema?  The answer will surprise you…it’s a really, really expensive, and ultra-bright projector in a totally controlled space.  Projection mapping is much rawer, but the tech has come a long way to kick great images on surfaces.  Remember, you will be likely dealing with ambient lighting that you can’t control. 

Projection Mapping example

Our recommendation that many overlook here is to consider whether there are local restrictions in your space that might prevent you from projecting.  A qualified event planning or production company will be able to guide you straight on this.  Again, you get what you pay for.

Planning the Tech 

Naturally, your mind goes here when you see a “tech-fueled” experience.  The biggest considerations here begin with full consideration of all the aspects of an experience.  Will your experience also include audio?  Will the experience wrap a space or run synchronized across multiple canvases?  How intricate and complex is your content?

Our recommendation for planning begins with being able to answer these questions.  The best projection mapping projects utilize several projects which blend together to provide better canvas coverage while maintaining the luminosity of the content.  Whether you need 2, 4, or 10 projectors will impact the project greatly.  If you need audio, placement at the front, mid, and rear of the space will create exceptional experiences but also increase the cost. We also recommend working with great projection manufacturers like Christie Digital, Panasonic, and Barco. For more insight into our live event portfolio, you can visit https://mercurysl.wpengine.com/services/live-events/.

Projection Mapping edge blending example.

The key here is to plan accordingly.  Your dollars can stretch when you do more integrative planning.  When you parse piecemeal, you create a difficult situation for both your content creator and your technology company.  Try to bring these two entities together from the onset and this simplifies your life and amazes your guests.

If you haven’t figured it out by now, we love projection mapping projects.  We’ve navigated some of the best.  Start early, plan well, and consider all the sides of the content, the venue, and the tech and you won’t go wrong.  And if you’re not sure, find a qualified pro to help you out!  You won’t overpay and be disappointed by scoping your project too low.  A big impact takes time and effort, and the results will speak for themselves.

Check out our top 25 Projection Mapping Picks for 2022

We would love to talk to you about your next project!

25 Projection Mapping Masterpieces in 2022

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Our Projection Mapping Top Picks in 2022

Projection mapping is one of our passions at Mercury. And we execute some pretty incredible projects right here at our home in Detroit in the midwest, United States. But our projection muse comes from many places around the world. We wanted to take a moment and share what we think are some of the best of the best from some of the most creative teams from around the world. You are going to want to bookmark this post. This will be your 1-stop cool projections shop info log.

#25 – Soul of the Ocean Project Mapping | Ocean Park Hong Kong – Moment Factory

Kicking off our list from 2022 is the Soul of the Ocean experience at Ocean Park in Hong Kong. Amusement parks are becoming prime destinations for the integration of projection mapping and entertainment. You will find in this video a little bit more into the making of the experience which we think is important. The theatrical staging, music, choreography, and more make the blending of these worlds and on these types of surfaces great “moments.” Moment Factory makes our lists a few times in 2022 and you will understand why as you watch this video.

#24 — GENERATIONS – Palace of Karlsruhe for Schlosslichtspiele 2022 (4K) (Maxin10sity)

We love the team at Maxin10sity in Hungary. They put out some of the best work on the planet…period. We love this one because, like many of their projects, it is gorgeous at a massive scale. Make sure you check out their work at www.maxin10sity.net.

#23 — Segro’s centenary celebration at the Royal Horticultural Halls in London

Brought to us by the magicians at Event Projection in the UK, we are in love with the content and the intimacy of the space. This project proves that when you get the content right, projection mapping simply amplifies the story by a factor of 100. Solid execution with the right balance of lumen and projectors as well to maximize the effect.

#22 –  DENKENDES AUGE Projection Mapping – Essen Light Festival 2022

Light festivals have really grown up around the world. They started small and now you can find them everywhere. Here’s one we liked in Germany called the Essen Light Festival. You can catch 2023’s show in late September and early October on your Oktoberfest Trip. We love the use of curved architecture here. Not all projection surfaces need to be flat. The technology has come quite far to make even the most intriguing architectural sites prime projection mapping targets.

#21 –Artist Daan Roosegaarde / Noor Riyadh Festival 2022

We are fan-atics of Daan Roosegaarde and Studio Roosegaarde. Daan has pulled off some of the most creative lighting installations out there. This is not quite “projection mapping.” In fact, it’s not projection mapping at all…unless you don’t call a laser light bath over your head projection. And on another side note, get ready to see some incredible projects in this blog post from Noor Riyadh Festival 2022 which was produced by acclaimed experiential designer, Dorothy Di Stefano, founder at Molten Immersive and the Noor Riyadh Festival curator.

#20 – Drone Light Show at Noor Riyadh Light Festival 2022

Another project in which we are pushing the boundaries of the definition of projection mapping. Sky mapping with drones might be the better term. The drone show is the artistic work of the insanely talented Marc Brickman who pulled off the largest drone show ever at the Noor Riyadh Light Festival in 2022. We love it.

#19 – Living Architecture: Casa Batlló” by Refik Anadol

If we attempted to compare Refik Anadol to a famous Renaissance artist today, he would be Michelangelo. In fact, he was given the Lorenzo il Magnifico lifetime achievement award at the Florence Bianalle in 2019. What is unique about Refik is his use of GAN algorithms (generative alternative networks) to morph different art sources and data to create truly unique, one-of-a-kind digital sculpture experiences. There are many Anadols you’ll find out there. This is one of our favorites in 2022!

#18 – CBS Sunday Morning – Light Harvest Spotlight with Ryan Uzilevsky

When projection mapping makes mainstream television’s Sunday morning lineup, you know the experience is sticking. Earlier this year, Ryan Uzilevsky from Light Harvest Studio was featured on a CBS Sunday morning feature. We love this because Light Harvest is cool and because CBS caught on to the important aspect of 3D light art as a legitimate artistic enterprise. In this video, enjoy Ryan’s commentary as much as the content itself. Projection Mapping is a legitimate art form and needs to assume its rightful place in the artistic community.

#17 – Revival, Epic Architectural 3D Projection Mapping in Las Vegas

We are going to take some liberty in sliding the ruler of 2022 slightly into 2021. The folks at Limelight Art are remarkable. And considering this one happened at the end of the pandemic says a lot about how they think. The e-sports and gaming market have long understood the value of big stories on huge canvases. This one was done on the facade of the Club Tower at the Tropicana Las Vegas and it is off the hook. Our insiders understand that this got “bigger” in the days preceding the launch to accentuate the punch and effect on the Vegas skyline. Imagine flying into Vegas and seeing this in action. It underscores why brands, especially e-sports, choose to do these experiences like this at scale.

#16 – “AD ASTRA” – Projection mapping as a guest artist for 1 MINUTE PROJECTION MAPPING 2022 – Tokyo, Japan

Japan hosts some of the most intriguing digital experiences of all time. The country and digital culture are no strangers to the incredible use of pixels and light. What we love in this experience is the use of color Super cool use of color…the blues, greens, and pink. Set against the backdrop of night, the visual pop is exceptional. This project was executed by The Fox, The Folks and comes with a poetic backdrop.

“We are all born from the same source, we all live and learn from our surroundings. Sometimes it takes courage to dream and to do something different, something no one else is doing. We must clearly understand what we want to accomplish and make the utmost effort to face any difficulties or problems. First, we must realize that our greatest enemy is ourselves and face it. Accept where you are, where you belong, and who you are. Let us be prepared to start moving toward the stars, shine, and contemplate the difficulties ahead. And take pride in the fact that we have overcome all difficulties. Everyone sees us shining to get closer to our own dreams. We break out of our molds in every area. And then we move on to the next dream. Because, after all, we are the shining stars of our lives.”

#15 – Video Mapping Course – Festival Lille 2022

We would love to make this trek someday. Roadtrip! This is an actual “course” in Lille, France with 22 projection experiences along the way. We love this method of experiencing night art. Semi-guided, highly diverse. It is a great method of crowd control as well. In this video, you’ll see a bit more of a collection of mapping experiences from the Festival Lille 2022 experience. And check out this course…you get projection mapping and the workout at the same time. Of course, a few subway stops along the way. Enjoy this 4K highlight reel. We need more of these kinds of experiences in the United States. Major metros would do well to task night mayors to make this happen.

#14 – KURO’S LIGHT, THÉÂTRE DU NORD, LILLE – mars 2022

Here’s another gem from Lille. We love the character – Kuro. This is a beautiful project in the way that the story is developed. It’s like watching a Hayao Miyazaki original…not a bad idea for content to convert to a projection mapping experience. Kuro’s Light is the work of Sophie GARCIA, Pierre JAUCOT, Julien DE-MEY. For your future calendar benefit, check this link for projection festivals happening around the world. https://www.facebook.com/VideoMappingFestival

#13 – Projection Mapping Powered by Lightware – Saudi Arabia National Day 2022

No doubt this may be one of the tallest experiences we’ve seen yet. This experience was done by Event-Tec and Lightware and celebrated Saudi Arabia’s national day this year. We like the scale and the content gets the job done. Other projects we’ve seen are a bit more “artistic” but the color selection for Aramco, the experience’s sponsor, pops against the night sky. The model here is important to understand. In this case, a digital arts patron supports the use of this transformational expression medium.

#12 – Virtual Sky Mapping – The Dream – Seattle New Year’s Eve Ball Drop 2021

We are still scratching our heads on this one coming from the magicians at Maxin10sity. This is not a traditional projection mapping the way that you know it. This has to be viewed through another “display” like a phone or content programming. There is some special sauce in its delivery and you would have to ask the guys at Max for some insight. But the groundbreaking massive experience first took to the skies against the Seattle Space Needle new year’s ball drop about a year ago. Seeing is believing.

#11 — Projection mapping artist Alessio Cassaro, NSU Art Museum

Here is another great project we tuned into through Molten Immersive Art. Alessio Cassaro’s ENTROPY explores the infinite search between order and balance. This piece has really great music and Alessio just recently won Codaworx’s international projection art competition sponsored by Panasonic. What’s particularly fascinating here is that Codaworx is the world’s largest marketplace of commissioned artwork. If you had any questions about the digital artist movement, pay close attention to names like Alessio Cassaro.

#10 – beatlights – Projection Mapping, Winner of iMapp 2021, 4K

Straight up, this is a beast of a show! And we can see why it won iMapp 2021 in Bucharest. The music is tight and the show is dank. It is hard to get a full sense of the size and scale of this show. It wasn’t designed to be viewed as a video…rather, experienced in person, on-site. What we love about this show is how they were able to get the audience into the experience. That is truly special and the reason why we do this stuff. To win at iMapp is the equivalent of winning the world cup. And for that, you need to pay close attention to this. Hats off to Creative Direction by Jonas Denzel and Sound by Sören Schaudel. We love this.

#9 – Projection mapping on Buda Castle & Parliament building: case-study in Budapest | Panasonic Visual

Breaking into our 2022 top 10 is a 2021 project. We hope you don’t mind. We have to give a shout-out to our friends at Panasonic Business Solutions and Visual. This video was commissioned by the European team. Without their breakthrough projection technology, we can’t do this stuff. The tech truly is foundational and unique to our times. What is so awesome about this content is the faces of the audiences. You don’t always see them. Set in Budapest against the Buda Castle and Parliament building, this is a solid sizzle reel that helps you better appreciate the art of possibility with projection mapping. And a 30-minute show runtime…massive! A total of 50 projectors were used in this project with 31, 35, and 50K projectors. Also note fireworks and drone show to boot. How many US cities could pull this off?

#8 –  FIFA World Cup 2022 – Scoring For the Goals at the UN Headquarters in New York

Clever, clever! We love this one because it is simply ingenious. Celebrating scoring for the goals, its run of show and dynamic content becomes its strongest use case. It’s World Cup time and the link between the UN and the global community unified by football is obvious. The folks at Quince Imaging worked with 59 Productions the UN HQ team in New York to create a nightly scoreboard. Quince is an exceptional team and this project proves it. This project featured 33 Christie projectors that hit multiple surfaces at the UN campus.

#8 – Eric Prydz HOLO Intro – Tomorrowland 2022

Wow! Where do you start with Eric? Eric Prydz is a Swedish DJ who travels the world and lays down some serious electric dance tracks. This stage intro carefully orchestrated with projection mapping, lighting, and theatrical intros is one of the best you might experience. This 2022 HOLO intro might have had you quaking in your boots watching that Chinook come into the landing. Eric represents a new style of artist generally found in the EDM community where projection and lighting are a critical and intertwined part of the show. Fans have new, higher entertainment expectations based upon this “new” normal. We can’t wait to see more of this in more mainstream shows.

#7 – LUMA 2022 Look Back

LUMA is a festival held in upstate New York and featured some super cool installs. It is always remarkable to see places like Binghamton, New York radically transformed and attracting some of the most talented projection mapping artists in the world. Good news, this is truly only the beginning. What we think is important to call out here is the nature of community activation that happens around these types of events. Restaurants, after-parties, connected neighborhoods, and major sponsors. We encourage municipalities everywhere to evaluate and consider the power of annual lighting festivals like these. The numbers don’t lie, and the economic development factors are proof positive in the investment.

#6 – Burning Man 2022 | Festival 10 m immersive dome | Fulldome.pro

Post-pandemic, Burning Man appears to be returning to before-pandemic participation. The immersive dome is becoming more of a thing globally now with immersive venues popping up right and left. To be clear, we are not Burners, but we tip our hats to the commitment to make that kind of tech happen in a sandstorm at Blacktop City. The vision behind the immersive dome is fascinating pointing to the intersection of art and space. Fulldome.pro is what you want to keep an eye on. These are purpose-built and very consistent destinations. And the house PLENTY of immersive projection!

#5 — The Omega Mart Experience | Meow Wolf Las Vegas

Cracking our top five, Meow Wolf‘s Las Vegas Omega Mart. There is plenty of everything going around here with oodles of projection mapping and immersive content. Meow Wolf is the leader in immersive destinations in our estimation. With millions of eyes on content and visitors to destinations, they have proven that people have an insatiable appetite for immersive entertainment experiences. If you have the chance, it is a must-visit thing. And likely only the beginning of its kind.

#4 – Opening scene of the show ‘Space’ at Illuminarium – Las Vegas

Immersive destinations… it’s a thing. And for people who are tired of Imagine Van Gogh, Illuminarium’s ‘Space’ really sets the bar at a whole new level. The tech behind the scenes on this experience is off the charts. Gear heads like us love it. But there won’t be too many places on earth where you’ll have that much 8K content ripping around you in full rumbling glory. We found this opening scene on YouTube that will give you an initial sense of this experience. But you truly need to visit one of their many locations to get the full drift.

#3 – PLAY² at Tanween by Moment Factory

There is a reason why Moment Factory is one of the clear global leaders in experiential technology. Their proprietary, interactive tech is now featured through playful interventions at a wide range of events. We love this example of interactivity and not just projection. Tracking technology provides a huge range of possibilities for experiential destinations in the future which we are very excited.

#2 Soissons en Lumières | Mettre en lumière l’histoire de la Ville – Moment Factory

They are the OG’s. You have to give props where they are due. From their interactive tech referenced in experience #3, they collaborated with the village of Soissons in France to use personal electronic devices to “listen” to the story while the projection experience was executed. This interactivity makes the Moment Factory the moment factory. You can read more about the experience here…https://momentfactory.com/work/destinations/cultural-educational/soissons-en-lumieres. What you need to understand is that Moment Factory creates original music compositions to accompany their content making them truly one of a kind. Further, Soisson’s France has a long and storied history and was mostly bombarded after WW1. Bringing its history to life through its artistry and projection mapping technology is why this category is so important artistically and historically. Experiences tell stories!

#1 – Noor Riyadh 2022 – نور الرياض 2022

At the top of our list is the 6 guiness world record holding festival of lights. The largest light festival ever of its kind just happened this year. Many of the people we’ve called out in this post were there with over 200 installations. It was simply amazing…and we are dying to go to the next one! Congrats to the event curator, Dorothy Di Stefano, and all those who were a part of this event. This embodies everything we hope for with lighting and projection projects!

Projection Mapping Insider Tips for Live Event Planners

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Projection Mapping
Featured projection mapping installation at Detroit’s Dlectricity Light Festival 2021

You know it when you see it! That’s right, without a doubt, projection mapping stops people in their tracks. Every time you roll into an event that took the time to take a big, blank canvas and express a larger-than-life story, the effect is one of awe and wonder.  Originally called “spatial augmented reality” this category has gained much steam and notoriety with advances in technology and multi-media visualization.

But as an event planner, the pressing questions on the back of your mind are, “amazing…how difficult is that to do, how did they get started, and how much did that cost?  The answer may surprise you, in both directions.  Here are a few ideas from our time in the trenches that we think might help you through the decision-making.

First, the projection mapping market is not as niche as you might think.  2021 revenues totaled $652M when you consider that the market is basically comprised of projectors, projection surfaces, and corresponding services.  What you need to know is that projection technology is in plentiful supply and readily available.  LED technology has allowed projectors to be brighter and last longer.  This tech shift has accelerated in the last 5 years.  What does this mean for you?  Current supply can match demand and get started may be easier than you think.  Not all projects are the same and budgets follow.  But if you consider these tips, your path to adding a serious wow factor to your event is within reach.

Plan the “Big” Content Story

Projection Mapping is a pretty basic concept.  Take content, push it to a projector, and place it on another surface.  Sometimes, event planners get distracted by a complex projection story and the intricacies of the mapping surface.  We recommend getting started with a simple story prioritization process.  This can help you decide how big or small you might want to go. Your audience needs the beginning, middle, and end of the story. Complex stories in this world are best expressed in multi-media and digital art imagery over words. You have a massive canvas in mapping that will provide lots of opportunities for delivering the goods.

Event Insider Tip

Here’s an exercise you might employ.  Start by asking yourself what your event or brand’s top 3 attributes are.  Are they words or pictures?  Do they need to be animated or can they more easily be expressed in a few words or colors?  The easiest content may sometimes simply be an amplified word.  Imagine a 100ft tall, “JUST DO IT,” in Nike’s Futura Condensed Extra Black.  There would be no question about what the story is and how it trying to be conveyed.  Go big with your simple story.

Establish an Immersive Experience Budget Early

As was previously referenced, the complexity of your story will establish the cost of content.  Projection Mapping artists plan in, “minutes,” of animated content.  The average projection show will last between 5-15 minutes.  Starting as low as $500 to as much as $100,000, we recommend setting a budgetary target in the $8,000 to $10,000 per minute range for the kind of content you would expect at a 1st class event.  Impactful experiences range accordingly. 

Event Insider Tip

To help guide you in planning your show, consider how long you would expect an event patron to stay engaged in your story.  One big mistake many event planners make relates directly to not planning enough or over-planning because they lacked a realistic budgetary line of site.

Match the Right Video Technology for the Job

Here’s where things get interesting for many event planners.  You are bought off on the idea of projection mapping but just don’t have a sense of how much or what tech is required.  Indoors vs. outdoor settings will affect what tech is used.  The size of the projection canvas being a wall or side of the building will also dictate how many projectors are used.  The adage holds true…anything is possible.  But beware of the extremes of under and overdoing the tech.

Event Insider Tip

Our suggestion here is to pick a qualified and experienced tech partner to help you scope it.  Something to consider is to get a 2nd and 3rd quote, if necessary, on your idea.  Better yet, when you can plan the content at the same time as considering the tech to be used, you will be sure to maximize and extend your event dollar.  Projection Mapping is an art form.  When you use an artist’s eye in the process you will definitely hit the mark.

We hope these suggestions have you set in the right direction.  There is no doubt that projection mapping is a cool way to express a big story in a highly effective way.  Getting started is easier than you think.  Because this form of event communication can be used indoors as well as outdoors, your possibilities are endless.

Want to get inspired? Check out https://skullmapping.com/ for some of the coolest projects on the planet.

Ready to talk about your next event? Looking for some insider tips on projection mapping? Give us a call.

Reasons to Outsource Your AV for Events

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Now more than ever, the hotel industry has partnered with production crews to the point that it may feel like the only option is their in-house AV company. Hotels want you to think that because they usually get a commission when you choose to work with the in-house company.

DANGER!!

Without competition, you may not get the best option in terms of price or quality. This blog post will focus on a client-centered experience for hiring an AV company to make their experience the best one possible.

1. Single Contact for EVERY Event

If you run many events in many cities throughout the year, you will end up having to repeat yourself over and over to new groups that don’t understand your vision. This approach will include different times, working styles, and hoping they understand everything. Your personal event manager will know your event flow, understand the personalities of presenters and the crew, and know where to build in flexibility. You will know who to turn to for an update and to make changes quickly.

2. Consistent Experience Across Sites

Along with your single contact comes consistency of the event produced. With different crews and vendors, things can become misaligned, and your brand may become distorted. There may be differences in equipment availability or storage options. If you offer a different experience in different locations, some people will end up feeling cheated. Working with a nationwide business like Mercury Sound & Lighting ensures a smooth, streamlined event consistent across the country.

3. Dedicated Onsite Team

Hotels are busy as there is always something demanding the focus of the various service members. In-house AV companies may be responsible for multiple events taking place at the same time. If you need to make changes or if you are a smaller event, you may not receive the availability you need. With an outside team, the focus is completely on your event.

4. Consistent Pricing

Flat rates solve problems. When you pay the same amount for individual events in a series, you will have a much easier time. As with the consistent team, you will be able to expect a consistent pricing model for your event. There may be different logistical concerns raising the price in some cities, but for the most part, what your event costs to produce in one location will be similar to the cost in another location.

Mercury Sound & Lighting is a professional equipment rental and events production company offering AV solutions in Michigan and nationwide. Give us a call today at (734) 507-1177 to chat through your event opportunities.

For more information about audio and video installations follow this link: Mercury Audio/Video Installations

To request a custom quote for you event, event space, corporation, or house of worship please follow this link: Request a Quote

How to Get the Most from Your Retail Space’s Sound System

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Young woman taking her time to think in comfort at a retail store.

Making your business stand out leads to more visitors, more attention, and more sales. Having an attractive storefront is important for larger businesses, but the difference between succeeding and failing for small businesses. The longer people stay in your store, the more they will feel comfortable there, and the more likely they are to buy products. A great place to increase your customers experience is with your retail sound system.

You can create an atmosphere in your space with colors, layout, and lighting, but music is often overlooked. Create a specific mood in your visitors from exciting and fun for shoppers or relaxing for a late meal. Whether you are in the building and installation phase or looking to make your space more appealing with some speakers, there are options for you to enhance the experience of your customers. 

Consider the following parts of your space to decide what sound system is right for you.

Define the Environment

What materials make up the flooring: carpeting, hardwood, concrete, or something else? Is there insulation between you and your store neighbors? The little details of your space can make a big impact on the acoustics changing the way your customers experience your space. 

Choose the Right Tone and Volume

The volume and tone of your music will impact whether your customers notice the music right away, or if it subtly adds to their experience. People have different preferences between background and foreground music, the speed of the music, and whether or not it has lyrics. Think of your ideal customer and do some research into what they like. Creating surround sound reduces the volume you need to come from each speaker and makes for an even experience without dead zones. 

Choose the Right Technology

Using a stereo speaker setup with multiple speakers all keyed into a monophonic channel creates a unified experience in a retail store. An amplifier regulates the volume each speaker pumps out while adding to the sound quality. Smooth out disturbances or crackling with amplifiers as well. Consider the wire sizing and types, as well as the building codes to get the highest quality, legal experience possible. 

Vary Musical Selections During the Day

Your early, lunch-time, and just-before-closing shoppers have different priorities and probably different tastes. Tap into the mood of these different demographics by changing your musical selection during the day. Don’t forget to switch up the choices during the holidays. 

Additional Broadcasting Options

Think beyond music to the potential of broadcasting preselected or on-demand messages. Choose to play ads or showcase promotions between songs. Page a customer when their item is available or they are needed in a specific place. Open communication with your customers through broadcasting more than music. 

There are many things to consider when choosing the right sound system for your retail space. The most important consideration is thinking about your customer and how you can improve their experience. The professional team at Mercury Sound & Lighting has over 20 years experience in the production management, sound, and lighting industry. Check out our retail options by clicking here or give us a call today at 734-507-1177 to discuss how we can help your business better serve your customers.

For more information about audio and video installations follow this link: Mercury Audio/Video Installations

To request a custom quote for you event, event space, corporation, or house of worship please follow this link: Request a Quote

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