Billboards, often seen as static canvases along highways and cityscapes, have evolved into dynamic vehicles for storytelling through the art of embellishments. Beyond mere information conveyors, billboards now embrace a diverse array of enhancements that elevate them from the ordinary. Different production tactics such as inflatables, 3D buildouts, eyecatchers, electroluminescence, and UV lighting can transform billboards into attention-grabbing landmarks. These embellishments allow brands to break through the clutter, stand out from the crowd, and create lasting impressions. In this era of innovation, billboards have become more than advertisements—they are highly creative installations that captivate, engage, and leave a long-lasting impression. We will dive into a few embellishment options in this blog post, but the this is just scratching the surface of possibilities.
3D Buildouts/Props
Billboard 3D buildouts transform static displays into a captivating installation. 3D buildouts extend beyond the billboard's frame, introducing a new dimension to outdoor advertising. Whether it's a life-sized product replica, a protruding logo, or an interactive element, 3D buildouts demand attention and engagement. By breaking the traditional confines of flat surfaces, these installations create memorable brand interactions. The physical depth and creative design capture the imagination of passersby, leaving a lasting impact that resonates beyond a fleeting glance. For example, Fendt transformed a double stack poster unit into a Fendt Rogator with lighting in the headlights and extensions on either side that emitted a mist above several rows of corn that were planted below the structure.
Inflatables
Billboard inflatables redefine the sky-high impact of outdoor advertising. These attention-grabbing giants, often towering over or on conventional billboards, captivate attention with their colossal presence. Inflatables take on various shapes and sizes, from towering replicas of products to whimsical characters. Their dynamic nature adds a playful touch to the urban landscape, turning heads and sparking curiosity. In the realm of outdoor marketing, billboard inflatables are a creative and larger-than-life way to elevate brand visibility and leave a lasting impression on passersby.
Electroluminescence
Electroluminescent billboards transform cityscapes into vibrant, illuminated showcases after dark. This technique allows for creative or messaging to seemingly change from day to night, as different elements can be "revealed" after dark. Other campaigns simply use the electroluminescence to highlight a particular part of the creative and catch some extra attention at night as seen below with the Uniti Fiber campaign.
UV
Utilizing UV paint and lights on billboards, wallscapes, or murals introduces a captivating dimension to outdoor advertising. UV-reactive pigments, invisible by day, come alive under UV lights, creating a mesmerizing glow after sunset. This innovative technique transforms billboards into nocturnal works of art, ensuring 24/7 visibility. Whether it's accentuating specific elements or crafting intricate details, UV paint enhances the visual impact, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Eyecatchers
Eyecatchers, or sequin chips, come in various colors and sizes. They can be used as an added layer on a vinyl billboards, adding extra dimension. The sequin chips flicker with wind and sunlight, creating a visually stunning effect that may spark curiosity and inspire a second look.
These are just a few of the techniques that can be used to embellish outdoor advertising. Our production team loves a challenge. If you have a larger than life idea for your next out-of-home campaign, always feel free to reach out at hello@wilkinsmedia.com and let us brainstorm with you on how to make it happen.