Debunking the Myths of FOOH and Augmented Reality

Posted by
Cristián Aracena

In the era of advertising saturation, brands are constantly looking for innovative ways to stand out, turning to techniques that blur the boundaries between the real and the digital. In Chile, the campaigns of Fake Out Of Home (FOOH) and other marketing interventions have marked a milestone, creating experiences that capture attention in a unique way. Contrary to popular belief, most of these experiences are not based on augmented reality (AR) in real time, but on the ingenuity of post-production and visual effects (VFX). Here, we delve into the creative process behind these campaigns, revealing how the combination of traditional and digital techniques brings the unimaginable to life.

FOOH around the world

The Base: Capturing Reality

The first step toward creating these impressive campaigns is capturing the real situation. Strangely enough, this process does not always require high-tech equipment; in many cases, mid-range cameras or even cell phones are used. This choice helps to maintain an aspect of authenticity and closeness to the spectator, which is crucial for interventions in public spaces. During filming, extras are included and a whole staging takes place, preparing the ground for the magic that will follow. This stage is vital, as it establishes the context and framework within which digital elements will later interact.

Extras and Staging: The Key to Integration

The inclusion of extras in the scene is more than just a detail; it's an integral part of the immersion process. These actors interact with empty space or with markers that will later be replaced by 3D animations, providing visual guidance for integrating effects. This interaction sets the stage for a credible integration of the animation, ensuring that the responses and movements of the extras are synchronized with the digital elements that will be added.

3D Animation: Where Creativity Comes to Life

Once the actual footage has been captured, the next step is the creation and animation of the 3D elements. This phase is where the creative vision truly takes shape, with artists and technicians modeling everything from mythological creatures to historical icons, all designed to integrate seamlessly into real footage. 3D animation allows flexibility and expressiveness that would be impossible to achieve live, opening up a world of possibilities for visual narrative.

Integration and Postproduction: The Fusion of Two Worlds

The integration and post-production process is at the heart of these campaigns, where real footage and digital elements come together to create something completely new. This stage requires meticulous attention to detail, from adjusting lighting and shadows to precisely synchronizing interactions. The goal is to make the digital elements appear to have been there at the time of filming, creating a compelling illusion that will surprise and delight the audience.

The Result: Unique Experiences That Break the Molds

The final result of this complex process is an advertising campaign or marketing intervention that breaks traditional molds, offering the public a unique experience that is etched in their memory. Not only do these creations demonstrate the power of technology and creativity, but they also highlight the importance of visual narrative in connecting with the public.

Through the exploration of these processes, it becomes clear that, far from depending on augmented reality, it is the skill in post-production and visual effects that allow brands to create truly impactful advertising experiences. In Chile and beyond, these techniques continue to push the limits of what is possible, transforming the everyday into the extraordinary, being a powerful new tool for world of advertising.

This creative journey shows that, far from relying solely on AR technology, it is the ability in post-production and VFX that truly allows Chilean and global brands to create those unforgettable experiences that transcend the limits of our imagination.
In conclusion, the dynamic world of Fake Out Of Home (FOOH) has revolutionized the way brands interact with consumers in public spaces. The ability to transform everyday scenarios into extraordinary advertising experiences not only captures the audience's imagination, but also redefines the urban advertising landscape. However, as with any hot trend, there is a risk that brands will be late to the party.

In a market where the novelty of FOOH has already created high expectations, introducing low-cost and substandard experiences could not only fail to excite the public, but also damage brand perception. Cheap, low-budget execution can send the wrong message, suggesting a lack of commitment to innovation and quality. This, instead of attracting, could push away consumers who are looking for authenticity and creativity in their interactions with their favorite brands.

Brands must, therefore, carefully weigh timing and investment in technologies such as FOOH. While capitalizing on this trend can be powerful, doing so hastily and without due care can prove to be a double-edged sword. In a world where first impressions are crucial, a failed attempt to jump on the FOOH bandwagon may be a misstep that brands will want to avoid. Therefore, the invitation is to dive in with well-thought-out strategies and high-quality executions that truly enhance the brand and enrich the urban experience.

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