PROJECTION MAPPING : GAME CHANGER
A couple months ago I dived into the world of projection mapping and the software required. I was blind to the versatility of mapping projections. But now I see.
It started with basic research. Luckily, I already have a lot of video, audio, and a projector to display it, meaning the only thing I needed was a software I could insert into my chain. I tried a few free programs, none of which were really user friendly to a degree that i could trust one live for reliable output. Some were well made and worked well, but were tuned for installation work.
Resolume, a popular choice, had everything I needed but was wayyy out of my price range, and I couldn't find a reliable way to pirate it, not to mention I shouldn't rely on a pirated piece of software to support my live set. One program I tried, VPT 8, was programmed in max like my percolator. I almost used it, because I would be able to implement my own max programming skills to tweak and modify the software. However, I decided against it because of it's limited audio functionality and the amount of extra development id be undertaking.
Eventually, I found what i needed in HeavyM2. I've found the projection mapping program to be uniquely tuned to my needs. Even though it is a relatively new piece of software, the dev team is dedicated, the software is stable, the features in it currently are perfect for me, and the upcoming features are going to be very beneficial to me as well. HeavyM2 lets me set up video loops similarly to the audio loops I have in Ableton. Additionally, it's equipped with Ableton link allowing me to sync the bpm with my music automatically. It can ALSO procedurally animate and render vector effects, and has audio reactivity support. Its a super versatile tool that I just need to make my own with unique visuals.
One issue is that this program renders the current build of the percolator obsolete for my live set, for now. I already have plans that will be in the next post or the one after that. Anyways, past this the new possibilities are huge. I can do a large, immersive light show with simple shapes and surfaces as my projector screens. This new technique has my imagination running wild.
