Procedural City — modular density

Hybrid Image Billboard

R&D • Procedural • OOH

This project explored how hybrid images could be used in large-scale outdoor advertising. A hybrid image combines two different visuals into one — when viewed up close, one image is visible, but from a distance, a second image appears.

Blender OSL Python

Video

It’s a clever way to deliver multiple layers of information depending on the viewer’s position.

Workflow

I used Blender to simulate how these images would appear on OOH billboards under real viewing conditions. To refine the effect, I experimented with finding the “sweet spot” of visibility in a procedural way, using Blender’s Open Shading Language (OSL) for more control over frequencies and blending.

Final Conclusion

Hybrid images can be used in billboard advertising. From near distances, audiences can see detailed visuals or product shots, while from far away, the main brand message or simplified image stands out. This creates a unique, engaging experience for viewers and allows advertisers to deliver two messages in one space. However, there are also downsides. Hybrid images rely heavily on viewing distance and angle — if people stand in the wrong spot, the effect may not work well. Too much detail or poor execution can also make the billboard look blurry or confusing. Because of these factors, hybrid images are powerful but need careful design and testing before real-world use.

OSL Blender Blur

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