Creating Wedding Photo Booth Props: A Diy Guide

Photo booths are a fun addition to any wedding, but they can be expensive to rent. A cheaper alternative is to make your own photo booth props. This can be done by sourcing creative props or crafting them yourself. You can also curate a cohesive collection of objects, like a basket of picture frames and arrows, or add some wedding photo booth signs. If you're looking for something more interactive, you can include items like balloons, glittery paper cutouts, or even a small top hat and bow tie.

If you're feeling extra crafty, you can make your own photo booth props using heavy cardstock or foam core, popsicle sticks, straws, or dowels, and an X-ACTO knife. You can find free, printable DIY photo booth prop templates online, which you can then cut out and adhere to cardstock. To assemble, simply attach handles to the back of each prop using tape or glue. You can even bedazzle your props with rhinestones, feathers, or other embellishments. Once you've made your props, be sure to test them out before the big day!

Using a chalkboard backdrop for a DIY photo booth

Chalkboard backdrops are one of the most popular new trends in photo booth backdrops. They allow your guests to express their creativity by writing custom messages or drawing pictures. Here are some tips on how to create a DIY chalkboard backdrop for your wedding photo booth:

Materials and Setup

To create a chalkboard backdrop, you will need a sturdy frame for support, such as PVC pipes or wooden dowels, and a piece of chalkboard material, such as a chalkboard sheet or a piece of wood painted with chalkboard paint. Cut the chalkboard material to the desired size, leaving enough length and width for any desired draping effect. You can also add decorative elements like balloons, streamers, or flowers for a more festive look.

Assembly and Testing

Assemble the frame by connecting the PVC pipes or wooden dowels with appropriate connectors. Drape the chalkboard material over the frame, securing it with zip ties or string. Test the setup before the event to ensure everything is secure and to adjust the camera angles.

Guest Experience

Encourage your guests to write custom messages or draw pictures on the chalkboard backdrop. Provide a variety of colourful chalks for them to choose from. You can also suggest themes or ideas for their drawings, such as a message to the newlyweds, a fun quote, or a simple "Congratulations!"

Additional Tips

• If you want to add a unique twist, use unconventional materials such as old records, paper flowers, or balloons to decorate your backdrop.
• Consider the size of your backdrop, as bigger backdrops allow for more people to be included in group photos.
• Don't forget to have fun with it! This is a great opportunity to add a personal touch to your wedding and let your guests' creativity shine.

A chalkboard backdrop will surely add a memorable and interactive element to your wedding photo booth, providing endless fun and unique photo opportunities for you and your guests.

Creating a flower wall

A flower wall makes a huge visual impact for a photo booth, but it can be costly to have a florist create one. Here is a guide on how to create a flower wall for your wedding photo booth:

Materials

Firstly, you will need to gather your materials. You can either opt for fresh flowers or faux flowers for your flower wall. If you opt for fresh flowers, you will need to work with a florist to compose a floral-filled backdrop. Alternatively, you can express your creativity by going faux. Faux flowers are a more affordable option, and you can take on the project yourself. You will need to purchase foam or a plywood board and faux floral panels to engulf in the florals.

Construction

If you are handy, you can construct the flower wall yourself. You can follow the example of a couple whose family members constructed a DIY wall with faux floral panels and signage, resulting in a lush, vibrant backdrop for photos. You can engulf foam or a plywood board in faux florals to produce a fresh-from-the-garden feel.

Backdrop Ideas

To give your DIY photo booth a garden-inspired vibe, you can include an emerald green velvet couch surrounded by trailing greenery and soft roses. You can also add a collection of candles at the foot of the furniture to aid in the ethereal feel of the space. Alternatively, you can add a quirky backdrop with a bright orange sign that encourages guests to have fun, like the one from Peanut Press Creative.

Other Considerations

If you are hoping to save money, you can repurpose your ceremony arch and embed it into your DIY photo booth. No matter where you set up your arch, your guests will be thrilled to take their picture in front of such a pivotal part of the festivities. Additionally, you can include props to turn any space into a photo booth, such as decorative items to wear or hold, like funky hats or custom signs.

Making props from heavy cardstock or foam core

Making props from heavy cardstock

If you want to make photo booth props from heavy cardstock, you'll need a few simple supplies: heavy cardstock in your chosen colours, lollipop sticks, a Cricut Explore, scissors, and a hot glue gun. You can design your own props or download pre-made files to cut out and glue onto the sticks. This is a simple and affordable way to create fun photo booth props for your wedding.

Making props from foam core

Foam core is a versatile material that can be used to create a variety of photo booth props. For a wedding with a Star Wars theme, for example, you could cut out light sabers from foam core and paint them in the iconic colours of the franchise. You could also cut out speech bubbles, glasses, and lips, and add some glitter for a festive touch. If you want to incorporate your pets into the photo booth, you can print out a sturdy reproduction of your pet's photo to pose with.

For a more personalised touch, you can paint motifs or icons related to your wedding theme or destination onto foam core and cut them out with an X-acto knife. For instance, if you're having a beach wedding, you could cut out palm trees or other tropical motifs.

Using a selfie station with a backdrop and props

Choose a backdrop

The backdrop sets the scene for your selfie station and can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Balloons: Balloons are a playful and colourful option that can be easily tailored to your wedding theme. Mix and match different colours and sizes to create a unique display.
• Flowers: A flower wall makes a stunning and elegant backdrop. You can use fresh or artificial flowers to create a lush and romantic setting.
• Disco balls: For a glamorous or '70s-inspired wedding, disco balls add a glitzy and sparkling touch to your backdrop. Play with different shapes and sizes to create depth and dimension.
• Linens: Draped linens create a whimsical and dreamy atmosphere. Hang a few yards of fabric from the ceiling or use pastel curtains to add a soft touch to your selfie station.
• Chalkboard: A chalkboard backdrop encourages creativity and interaction. Your guests can leave personalised messages and drawings, making the photo booth experience even more memorable.

Gather props

Props add fun and personality to your photos. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Hats, glasses, and masks: These classic props are versatile and can be made in various styles, such as cowboy hats, princess crowns, top hats, cat-eye glasses, or masquerade masks.
• Mustaches and lips: Create different colours, patterns, or shapes using cardstock paper or felt. Add glitter or sequins for extra sparkle.
• Signs: Make cardboard or foam board signs with funny phrases, hashtags, or even a chalkboard section for custom messages.
• Props on a stick: Attach objects like flowers, picture frames, or a miniature wedding cake to sticks or straws for unique and playful props.
• Food props: Create donuts, pizza slices, or other fun food items using foam board, cardboard, or paper mache. Decorate them with colourful details to add a whimsical touch to your photos.

Set up your selfie station

When setting up your selfie station, consider the following:

• Choose a spacious area that can accommodate your backdrop, props, and guests.
• Use a tripod or stand to hold your camera or smartphone, ensuring steady and blur-free shots.
• Lighting is crucial. Use natural light or add artificial lighting to create a well-lit environment.
• Test your setup by taking a few test shots to ensure your camera or smartphone works fine, and the lighting, backdrop, and props are all in place.
• Encourage your guests to use the selfie station and provide suggestions for different poses to get the best shots.

Creating a balloon backdrop

A balloon backdrop is a fun and whimsical addition to a wedding photo booth, adding a pop of colour and a touch of whimsy to the photos. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a stunning balloon backdrop for a wedding photo booth:

Planning the Design and Layout:

First, decide on the colours and types of balloons that complement the wedding theme or colour scheme. Choose a monochromatic colour scheme for a sophisticated look, or bright and contrasting colours for a festive vibe. Incorporate different types of balloons, such as standard round ones or uniquely shaped ones like hearts or stars. You can also mix and match sizes and textures to create depth and dimension.

Preparing the Backdrop Frame:

Measure and mark the desired size of the backdrop on the wall or frame. Set up a sturdy structure, such as a PVC piping frame, and secure it to the wall or another support using hooks, brackets, or zip ties. Ensure the frame is level and stable to prevent any movement or wobbling. If using a freestanding frame, secure it to the ground for safety.

Attaching and Arranging the Balloons:

Inflate the balloons with helium or air, ensuring they are properly inflated for a consistent look. Connect the balloons together using strings or balloon clips to create clusters of various sizes and colours. Starting from the top, attach the balloon clusters to the frame using clear fishing wire or balloon tape. Fill any gaps with smaller balloons or ribbon to achieve a balanced and visually appealing pattern.

Tips and Tricks:

• Ensure proper balloon inflation by using a high-quality pump or helium tank and avoiding over-inflating.
• Add depth to the backdrop by incorporating different sizes and textures of balloons.
• Consider using balloon arch or garland techniques to create a captivating focal point.
• Incorporate other decorative elements such as flowers, ribbons, or signage to enhance the overall aesthetic.
• Regularly check the balloons during the event and reinflate any that may have lost air.

Frequently asked questions