Create A Projected Wedding Cake: A Step-By-Step Guide

Projection mapping cakes are a unique and memorable way to impress your guests at a wedding. This innovative idea involves projecting beautiful images, videos, and shapes onto the surface of a cake, creating a dazzling light effect. The technique, also known as cake mapping or 3D video mapping, was popularised by Disney Weddings in 2014. It is a form of projection mapping, where 2D media is 'mapped' onto a 3D surface using projection mapping software. You can create optical illusions, such as making the cake appear to spin in different directions or projecting fireworks or cartoons onto it. The cost of projection mapping for a cake can vary, with basic packages starting at $500 and custom content costing upwards of $1500.

How to Make Projection Wedding Cake

Choosing a projector

When choosing a projector for a projection wedding cake, there are a few key attributes to consider. Firstly, it is recommended to use a projector with a short-throw lens, which allows the projector to be placed closer to the cake while maintaining brightness and minimising the risk of people obstructing the projection. The projector's throw ratio, which is the distance from the projector to the surface divided by the width of the projected image, should be considered to ensure the projection covers the entire cake without wasting pixels. You can calculate the required distance using the projector's throw ratio or through trial and error.

Brightness is another important factor, especially if you intend to project in a well-lit environment. Choose a projector with at least 2000 lumens for good results, and consider a brighter projector if you anticipate competing light sources.

For the best results, it is suggested to use two projectors positioned on either side of the cake, providing an uninterrupted view for the audience. Alternatively, you can mount the projector on a tripod, place it on a table, or rig it overhead on a truss to avoid obstructions.

Some popular projector options for cake projection include Epson, Acer, and Pocket-Sized DLP Portable Projector, which can be found on Amazon.

Using projection mapping software

To create a projection wedding cake, you will need projection mapping software. This software will allow you to warp or 'map' 2D media onto the 3D surface of the cake. There are several software options available for projection mapping, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Here is a step-by-step guide to using projection mapping software for your wedding cake:

Choose Your Software

Firstly, you will need to decide on the software you want to use. Some popular options include Resolume Arena, After Effects, Photoshop, Cinema 4D, and FacadeSignage. You can download free trials of most software to get started.

Set Up Your Equipment

Ensure you have all the necessary equipment, including a laptop, projector, and any required cables. Connect your laptop to the projector using the BLUE wire and adjust your screen resolution. For Windows, go to the Control Panel and select the "Extended desktop" mode to have two active screens. On a Mac, turn off "mirror displays" in the Display Preferences.

Configure Software Settings

Open your chosen projection mapping software and configure the composition settings. Specify the size and output options to match your projector's capabilities. You may also need to define slices or sections of the cake to control the content projected onto each area.

Design Your Content

This is where you can get creative! Design your visuals using Photoshop, After Effects, or Cinema 4D. You can create animations, motion graphics, video loops, or even a photo slideshow. Ensure your content is saved in the correct format, such as ".MOV" or ".PNG", depending on your software requirements.

Map Your Content to the Cake

Import your designed content into the projection mapping software. Use the advanced transformation tools to resize, mask, crop, and position your visuals onto the cake. You can also add effects, such as sparkle or snowy-wall effects, to make your cake even more captivating.

Finalize and Test

Once you have mapped your content, review and adjust as needed. Ensure that your visuals are aligned correctly with the cake's surface and that all elements work together harmoniously. Test your projection on the cake to ensure everything looks perfect.

By following these steps and utilizing the chosen projection mapping software, you will be well on your way to creating a stunning and unique projection wedding cake that will wow your guests and make your special day truly memorable.

Selecting visuals, video clips, and photographs

The visuals, video clips, and photographs you select for your projection wedding cake can be tailored to your preferences and the theme of your wedding. This is your opportunity to get creative and choose content that will wow your guests and create lasting memories.

• Fireworks: Choose colourful visuals and animations of fireworks to create a dazzling display on your cake. This idea can work well regardless of the size of your cake.
• Photo slideshow: Create a short video or slideshow with your favourite photos that represent the relationship you're celebrating. This is a heartfelt way to personalise your cake and make it meaningful.
• Exclusive visuals: Opt for bright and exotic visuals created by professionals to ensure a unique and unrepeatable display. Consider using video game themes, like monochrome Pacman, or popular architectural compositions in HD for an interactive expression of your individuality.
• Motion effects: Shoot a video of your static cake and add motion effects, such as spinning each cake level in different directions. Project the video onto the cake and pause it. Then, at a pivotal moment during the wedding, play the video to surprise your guests with a cake that appears to move.
• Cartoons or film moments: Bring colour and entertainment to your wedding by projecting cartoons or your favourite film moments onto the cake. This can add a romantic and warm atmosphere to the ceremony.
• Hand-written notes: Express your love and dedication to your partner by displaying handwritten notes or messages on the cake using projection mapping.
• Disney themes: If you've always dreamed of a Disney wedding, projection mapping can bring this to life. Consider animations featuring Disney characters like Tinkerbell and Cinderella, adding a magical touch to your cake.
• Interactive designs: Engage your guests by incorporating images and animations that respond to their movements, touch, or other inputs. This creates a dynamic and immersive experience for your guests.
• Personalised details: Include names, custom messages, or logos on the cake to make it truly yours. You can even match the cake's design to your wedding's colour scheme or party theme.

Remember, the only limit is your imagination. By selecting captivating visuals, video clips, and photographs, you can transform your wedding cake into a breathtaking and unforgettable centrepiece.

Connecting the projector to your laptop

To connect your laptop to a projector, follow these steps:

Part 1: Selecting the Right Cables and Adapters

First, identify the video output ports on your laptop. Common ports include HDMI, Mini HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, and VGA. Ensure that your projector has a compatible input option. If your laptop and projector have different ports, you'll need the appropriate cable or adapter.

Part 2: Connecting Your Laptop to the Projector

HDMI Connection:

• Locate the HDMI ports on your laptop and projector.
• Plug one end of the HDMI cable into your laptop's HDMI port and the other end into the projector's HDMI input.
• Adjust your laptop's display settings to enable the connection with the projector (extend or duplicate the display).

VGA Connection:

• Identify the VGA port on your laptop and the VGA input on the projector.
• Plug one end of the VGA cable into your laptop's VGA port and the other end into the projector's VGA input.
• Adjust your laptop's display settings to extend or duplicate the display to the projector.
• If needed, adjust the projector settings by selecting the VGA input source using its remote or on-screen menu.

USB Connection:

• Ensure your laptop supports USB connectivity for video output.
• Get a USB video adapter that matches your laptop's video output port (e.g., USB-C to HDMI or USB to VGA).
• Plug the USB end of the adapter into your laptop's USB port and the other end into the projector's HDMI or VGA input.
• Install any necessary drivers on your laptop, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Adjust your laptop's display settings to extend or duplicate the display to the projector.

Wireless Connection:

• Ensure both your laptop and projector support wireless connections via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
• Connect your laptop wirelessly by accessing the projector's wireless settings and following the on-screen instructions.
• Enable screen mirroring or casting on your laptop through the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth settings to project your screen onto the projector.
• Adjust display settings if needed, depending on the wireless connection method.

Part 3: Configuring Display Settings

For Windows-based laptops:

• Right-click on the desktop and select "Display Settings."
• In the Display Settings window, select "Extend these displays" to extend your content across both screens or "Duplicate these displays" to mirror your laptop screen onto the projector.
• To resolve resolution issues, select "Advanced display settings" and choose the recommended resolution for the projector.

For macOS-based laptops:

• Click on the Apple menu and choose "System Preferences," then click on "Displays."
• Go to the "Arrangement" tab and drag the small white rectangle (representing your laptop screen) to the left or right of the big rectangle (representing the projector) to extend your display.
• To duplicate your display, check the "Mirror Displays" box.
• For resolution issues on macOS, hold the "Option" key and click on the "Scaled" option to access additional resolution options.

Part 4: Customizing Your Projector Display

Once connected, you can further enhance your viewing experience by customizing the projector display from your laptop:

• Adjust the screen resolution to the projector's native resolution for the sharpest visuals.
• Change the display orientation if the projector is set up at an angle or for projection on a non-standard screen.
• Adjust the screen size and zoom, either directly from the projector's remote or by installing remote control software on your laptop.
• Correct image distortion with keystone correction, either automatically or manually through the projector's menu or remote control.
• Select the appropriate picture mode (e.g., cinema, presentation, sports) and adjust settings like brightness, contrast, colour temperature, and sharpness.
• Choose the correct audio output in your laptop's sound settings to direct sound to the projector's speakers or an external audio system.
• Use wireless projector control software to adjust settings, change slides, or navigate content from your laptop.
• Utilize dual-screen applications for presentations to control what is displayed on the projector while keeping your laptop screen private.

Setting up the display

Firstly, choose a suitable location for the cake display. Consider a spot that is easily accessible for setting up the projector and other equipment. Make sure the area has enough space for guests to view the cake from different angles and capture photographs. The location should also have a plain backdrop to enhance the visual impact of the projection.

For the cake table, select a sturdy and stable surface that can accommodate the size and weight of the cake. Cover the table with a elegant tablecloth that complements the wedding theme and colour scheme. Position the table in a way that provides a clear line of sight for the projector, ensuring it is centred and at the correct height for optimal projection.

Now, it's time to set up the projector. Follow the instructions provided with your chosen projector model to ensure proper installation and positioning. Adjust the projector's focus, brightness, and other settings to achieve a sharp and well-lit image on the cake surface. Test the projection beforehand to fine-tune any adjustments and ensure the display is stable and clear.

To enhance the overall presentation, consider adding decorative elements around the cake. Fresh flowers, fairy lights, or other themed decorations can frame the cake beautifully. Ensure that any additional decorations do not obstruct the projection or create unwanted shadows on the cake.

Finally, test the entire setup by playing the chosen visuals and ensuring they are synchronised with any audio elements. Make sure to check the display from various angles to confirm that guests will have a clear view of the projection. With these steps, you will create a captivating display that will wow your guests and make your wedding cake a true masterpiece.

Frequently asked questions