*Since Tupac took the stage from the afterlife at Coachella in 2012, people have been buzzing about using holograms for events. But what are the technologies behind live event holograms and are they right for your event?*Hologram technology has interested and intrigued people for many years. Since the early days of Captain Kirk and Star Trek’s hologram projector aboard the Starship Enterprise, the concept of images floating in mid-air has engaged audiences of all ages.
Whilst we’re still not able to make images materialise in thin air completely, there are a number of technologies available now that will give a captivating hologram-like experience, and in the right applications mesmerise and astound audiences!
HOLOX
HOLOX is a technology that uses a fabric woven from highly-reflective translucent thread to create an almost-invisible projection screen. When it is relatively dark, the gauze cannot be seen, however as soon as light is directed towards it from a projector, it becomes instantly reflective.
HOLOX relies on highly controlled lighting levels and a space and production that is designed around the technology. However when done right it can be one of the most convincing hologram effects for live events there is. HOLOX holograms have been used in theatre productions, product launches, conferences and even awards ceremonies.
What is Pepper’s Ghost? An older variation of the HOLOX hologram principles, Pepper’s Ghost uses clear acrylic or glass at a 45-degree angle to create a near-invisible panel that can reflect projection from directly below. It is a very similar principle to how autocue monitors or teleprompters work. The effect it creates is highly convincing and is one of the oldest hologram techniques. The downside of Pepper’s Ghost is that it is very expensive and requires a very large stage area to be effective, so it is only practical for large-scale theatre productions.
Hologram fans use fast-spinning blades with programmable LEDs to create a holographic effect. They are the only hologram effect to not rely on reflection, and therefore can be very bright. However they are often placed in boxes or behind windows in order to contain noise and wind effects, so can be undermined by this. Another drawback is that the fan blades are often visible whilst spinning, making this effect less convincing than some others. However this option is a great, low-cost conversation starter.
A hologram box uses angled acrylic and a projection from below to create a hologram that appears like it is floating within a glass box. This type of hologram is excellent for exhibition stands and shop window displays, as it can be seen in daylight if done well, and can be viewed from multiple angles without breaking the illusion. It is also more cost-effective than some of the larger-scale hologram techniques.
The downside of this option is that the design of the glass box will always be visible, and viewers may be able to break the illusion if they can see the projection source from above or below. It is also not very convincing as a stage technique, as the box will reflect stage lights.
PYTCH have provided holograms for a number of clients including product launches, conferences, and outdoor illuminations. If you have questions bout holograms for live events, please get in touch.
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