Budgeting for projection mapping can be confusing because hardware, content and production can vary widely depending on the scale. This guide breaks down the realistic cost ranges for cities, festivals and brands so you can plan properly and avoid surprises.

Costs generally fall into four categories: hardware, content creation, labor/crew and logistics. Below is a clear breakdown of how these apply in real-world projects.

1. Hardware & Projectors

Projector brightness is the main budget factor. Approximate rental ranges:

• 6,000–10,000 lumen projectors: ideal for small façades – mid-range pricing
• 12,000–20,000 lumen projectors: ideal for medium buildings and bright urban areas – higher pricing
• 25,000+ lumen projectors: major landmarks or very bright environments – premium pricing

Outdoor festivals and winter installations often require:

• Weatherproof projector enclosures
• Short-throw or specialty lenses
• Power distribution and cabling

Learn more about outdoor hardware on our projection enclosures page.

2. Content Creation

Content can range from simple ambient loops to full storytelling sequences. Typical ranges:

• Simple atmospheric visuals: budget-friendly
• Seasonal content packages: mid-range
• Fully custom storytelling sequences: brand or municipality-level investment

Complex animations require 3D modeling, scene layout and motion design, which adds to production time.

3. Installation, Setup & Technicians

Labor includes:

• Projector installation
• Truss or rooftop mounting
• Signal and power distribution
• Mapping, warping and blending
• Show operation

Larger buildings and festivals may require multi-day installation and rehearsal windows.

4. Logistics & Safety Requirements

Municipal and public events may include:

• Engineering approvals
• Electrical inspection
• Permits for public spaces
• Security and overnight monitoring

5. Total Project Ranges

Very small installations (e.g., single façade at low brightness) may fall into entry-level budgets.
Large municipal landmarks or festivals typically fall into the higher ranges due to brightness and engineering needs.

Budget Planning Tips

• Start with surface size and ambient light
• Plan for at least two nights of installation
• Consider content reuse for future years
• Use weatherproof enclosures for multi-day shows

Next Steps

If you want a realistic quote, send photos and approximate dimensions of your site through the contact page.

Projection mapping doesn’t have to be unpredictable—clear planning leads to clear budgets.