What is a FOOH?
What is FOOH video advertising?
FOOH (Fake Out Of Home) is a new form of video advertising that blends digital marketing with urban displays. These illusion-based videos integrate 3D elements into real environments, creating the illusion of a monumental installation. With this technique, a brand can take over public spaces—without ever physically installing a structure.
This digital format grabs attention, sparks curiosity, and generates high engagement on social media. At a time when traditional advertising formats struggle to captivate audiences, FOOH offers an immersive and viral alternative.
FOOH leverages a well-known storytelling mechanic: ordinary heroes facing the extraordinary. By integrating spectacular elements into everyday life, it enhances immersion and emotional impact.
Case Study: The French César FOOH
A great example of this technique? The FOOH we created for the César Awards.
A Simple Yet Ambitious Idea
The concept was simple but bold: in Paris, replace the iconic Olympia facade with a gigantic César statuette, playing with compression to make it look as if it were truly installed on the front of the legendary Parisian music hall.
To achieve this striking illusion, we combined:
🔸 3D modeling to recreate the texture and scale of the trophy
🔸 Video tracking to seamlessly integrate it into the filmed environment
🔸 Advanced compositing to enhance reflections, shadows, and ambient lighting
The result? A hyper-realistic illusion that sparked massive buzz:
📲 +300K views on Instagram
🔥 19M views on TikTok
A convincing visual trick that made waves far beyond the film industry.
Why Is FOOH Advertising a Powerful Marketing Strategy?
A well-executed FOOH campaign isn’t just a visual feat—it’s a true communication tool. It leverages surprise, virality, and authenticity to maximize its impact.
🚀 Highly Engaging Content
FOOH intrigues and sparks reactions. It encourages sharing and boosts brand visibility on social media.
🎯 Anchored in Reality
Unlike traditional ads, FOOH creates the illusion of a real-life event, enhancing credibility and immersion.
💰 High Impact Without the Cost of Physical Installations
Instead of investing in an expensive temporary structure, FOOH allows brands to create a monumental effect—without logistical constraints.
⚡ Fast & Flexible Production
FOOH can be tested, adjusted, and adapted for different formats and platforms, unlike physical installations that come with significant technical and financial constraints.
How to Create an Effective FOOH Marketing Campaign?
A FOOH ad relies on expertise combining 3D creation, compositing, and digital storytelling. Here are the key steps:
1️⃣ Location scouting and shooting: Selecting an iconic location and capturing video footage from multiple angles.
2️⃣ 3D modeling: Designing and texturing a hyper-realistic object.
3️⃣ Tracking and integration: Precisely placing the 3D model while respecting perspective, shadows, and lighting from the original footage.
4️⃣ Compositing and post-production: Final adjustments to make the illusion flawless.
5️⃣ Distribution and amplification: Publishing on social media with a strategy optimized for virality.
🎬 Behind-the-Scenes Video of the FOOH
FOOH: A Game Changer for Marketing Communication
FOOH is more than just a visual effect—it’s a new way to communicate. At the intersection of advertising and digital content, it has become a must-have format for brands looking to make a lasting impression and engage their audience.
🇫🇷 With France’s world-renowned expertise in animation and visual effects, leveraging this savoir-faire can take your FOOH campaign to the next level.
🎥 What if your brand created its own FOOH? Contact me, and let’s bring an illusion to life that will captivate your audience. 🚀
Pierre LAFOUGE
I am a director and the founder of Hollymotion, a french creative studio specializing in Motion Design. Passionate about animation in all its forms, I integrated Blender into my workflow this year and I’m here to share my journey, discoveries, and a few tips I’ve picked up along the way.
If you like my content, feel free to connect with me on Instagram or Linkedin 👋
