A Guide to Different Types of Photo Booths for Events

Photo booths have become a must-have at weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, and more. They provide entertainment, help capture memories, and add an interactive element to any event. However, with so many types of photo booths available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this guide, we'll break down the different types of photo booths, their price points, where they shine, their ease of use, and their pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

1. Enclosed Photo Booths

Price Point:

Typically range from $400 to $1,000 for a rental period of 3-5 hours.

Best For:

• Weddings

• Private parties

• Formal events

Ease of Use:

Moderately easy to use. Guests step into the enclosed space, follow on-screen instructions, and receive printed photos instantly.

Pros:

• Provides privacy, allowing guests to feel more comfortable and silly.

• Reduces distractions and produces higher-quality photos due to controlled lighting.

• Often includes props and customizable backdrops.

Cons:

• Limited capacity (usually fits 2-4 people).

• Bulky and requires more space at the venue.

2. Open-Air Photo Booths

Price Point:

Ranges from $500 to $1,200 depending on features and rental duration.

Best For:

• Corporate events

• Large weddings

• Birthday parties

Ease of Use:

Very user-friendly with a touch screen interface or a remote shutter.

Pros:

• Can accommodate larger groups.

• Offers flexibility in choosing backdrops (custom branded options available).

• Less intrusive to the venue layout.

Cons:

• Photos may be affected by ambient lighting.

• Less private compared to enclosed booths.

3. Mirror Photo Booths

Price Point:

Typically costs between $700 and $1,500 for a standard rental.

Best For:

• High-end weddings

• Corporate galas

• Fashion events

Ease of Use:

Simple and intuitive. Guests interact with the touchscreen mirror, which provides fun animations and guidance.

Pros:

• Luxurious design makes it a focal point at events.

• Interactive features like touch gestures, animations, and on-screen signing.

• High-quality photos with professional-grade cameras.

Cons:

• More expensive than traditional photo booths.

• Larger setup requires adequate space.

4. GIF and Boomerang Booths

Price Point:

Ranges from $400 to $1,000 depending on features and customization.

Best For:

• Trendy weddings

• Social media-focused events

• Brand activations

Ease of Use:

Extremely easy with simple prompts on the screen to guide users.

Pros:

• Creates shareable content perfect for social media.

• Compact and easy to set up.

• Often includes branding options for overlays and animations.

Cons:

• Does not typically provide printed photos.

• Requires a strong internet connection for instant sharing.

5. 360-Degree Photo Booths

Price Point:

Usually costs between $800 and $2,500 due to its advanced technology.

Best For:

• Corporate events

• High-energy parties

• Large-scale events

Ease of Use:

Moderately easy, but requires an attendant to operate.

Pros:

• Produces stunning, cinematic video clips.

• Highly engaging and entertaining for guests.

• Great for creating viral content.

Cons:

• Expensive and requires a lot of space.

• Setup can be complex and time-consuming.

6. Selfie Stations

Price Point:

Affordable, ranging from $200 to $700 for a rental.

Best For:

• Small gatherings

• DIY events

• Budget-conscious parties

Ease of Use:

Very easy to operate. Guests use a touchscreen or app to take selfies.

Pros:

• Compact and portable.

• Budget-friendly.

• Allows for digital sharing.

Cons:

• Limited features compared to other booths.

• No printed photo option unless paired with a separate printer.

7. Roaming Photo Booths

Price Point:

Costs between $600 and $1,500 depending on features and duration.

Best For:

• Outdoor events

• Festivals

• Large-scale corporate functions

Ease of Use:

Highly convenient as attendants roam the event capturing photos and videos.

Pros:

• Engages guests who may not visit a stationary booth.

• Flexible and portable.

• Often includes instant digital sharing.

Cons:

• May not capture large groups effectively.

• No printed photo option in most cases.

Choosing the Right Photo Booth for Your Event

When choosing a photo booth, consider the size and style of your event, your budget, and your goals (e.g., printed keepsakes vs. social media sharing). Each type of booth brings its own unique flair and functionality, ensuring there's something to suit every occasion.