Culture Minute: Front Projection vs. Rear Projection

The role of a projector is to project an image onto a screen. This projection can be achieved in two different ways: front projection, by reflecting the light, or rear projection, by diffusing the light through the screen. But what is the difference between these two projection methods?

Characteristics of front projection

Front projection is a classic but still effective technique. It offers an immersive visual experience by reflecting the light from the projector directly onto the projection surface.

• The light from the projector is reflected on the projection surface
• Projection will be optimal in a dark interior, as any external light source interferes with and affects projection quality
• No need for space behind the screen
• A large space is not required

Features of rear projection

La rétroprojection est une alternative ingénieuse qui crée un chemin lumineux à l'arrière de l'écran et qui offre des avantages uniques en termes de contraste, de saturation des couleurs et de stabilité.

• The light from the projector passes through the projection surface
• The light path runs along the back of the screen without any possibility of masking the diffusion
• Colour contrast and saturation are stable
• Projection quality is very little affected by ambient light
• Image fidelity and resolution are guaranteed
• The projector and equipment take up space behind the projection screen
• The larger the screen, the more space is required behind it

The influence of the environment

To ensure projection quality, the choice of projection type is essential and depends largely on the viewing environment and the space available. For example, image quality not only depends on the ambient light, it also varies according to the light output of the projector and the gain of the projection surface. What's more, contrasts can sometimes be improved by controlling the lighting in the light path.

What type of projection best suits your needs?

To make the right decision, you need to take into account a number of factors, such as the size of the image you want, how far back you want the audience to stand, the amount of space available in the room, both behind and in front of the screen, and the ambient light. All these factors have an impact on the quality of projection obtained and the appropriate projection method.

If you are using a room dedicated to projection, you are more likely to lean towards front projection. On the other hand, if the projection takes place in a bright room or in broad daylight, rear projection would be preferred. Rear projection is also an ideal solution for presentations, exhibitions and conferences. The presenter moving in front of the screen can interact with what is projected on the screen without obscuring the content.

And then, which screen to choose?

Once the projection method has been decided, it is essential to select the right type of screen. Each screen is designed to meet specific needs, some being versatile for any type of environment, while others have particular characteristics. Most screens can be customised as required.

When it comes to choosing the projection surface, a wide range of screens are available, compatible with both front and rear projection. What's more, some screens are even suitable for both projection methods, offering optimum flexibility in the choice of projection configuration.

Publisher : Multivision Screens

January 2024