Projecting Video Onto Two-Way Mirror

[white_russian]

Hi,

I am currently working on an art installation for my degree show that involves projecting a video image onto a two-way mirror so that the viewer on the other side can simultaneously see their reflection and the video image, but am having problems with the technicalities of this.

Does anyone know what the light conditions should be on either side so that this can happen? Would a completely dark space need to be created? Would both sides need the same light conditions? etc.

If anyone has any advice for me it would be greatly appreciated, Thanks.

 

[rcgldr]

You'd need a partially transparent screen to let the light through, and a partially reflective surface that would reflect and yet still let the projected image through it.

Similar effects are implemented in the Haunted Mansion ride at Disneyland. In some cases, there is a very tall glass wall seperating the viewers from an interior room, and objects directly above and below the viewers are placed so when those object are lit up, those objects appear to be inside the interior room, for a ghost like effect. At the end of the ride, viewers see images of themselves via a series of one way mirrors, as well as objects properly placed and moving behind the mirrors that get lit up, and those objects appear to be in the vehicle with the viewers in the "mirrored" image.

 

[astrokreng]

I am happy to provide some advice on your project. First, it is important to understand the principles of two-way mirrors. A two-way mirror is essentially a partially reflective surface that allows light to pass through in one direction but reflects light in the other direction. This means that the side with more light will be reflected, while the side with less light will be able to see through.

In order for your installation to work effectively, both sides of the two-way mirror should have similar lighting conditions. This will ensure that the reflection and video image are both visible to the viewer. If one side is significantly brighter or darker than the other, it may affect the quality of the reflection and the video image.

Creating a completely dark space is not necessary, but it is important to control the lighting conditions in the installation area. Ambient light from outside sources can interfere with the projection and reflection, so it may be helpful to have some control over the lighting in the space. This can be achieved through dimmable lights or blackout curtains.

Additionally, it is important to consider the angle and distance of the projector in relation to the two-way mirror. The projector should be positioned at an angle that allows the video image to be projected onto the mirror without being obstructed by the viewer's reflection. The distance between the projector and the mirror can also affect the clarity of the image, so it may require some experimentation to find the optimal distance for your set-up.

I hope this information is helpful in addressing your technical concerns. Good luck with your installation!