Rhiannon Hendricks
Creating a DIY photo booth for your wedding is a fun way to capture memories and encourage guests to interact with each other. While hiring a professional photo booth can be expensive, making your own is simple and affordable. All you need is a well-lit backdrop, a camera, and some fun props.
First, decide on the style and location of your photo booth. Choose a spot that is easily accessible but slightly private, such as a corner of the reception or a small adjoining room. Consider the background and whether you want a blank wall, exposed brickwork, or a romantic garden setting.
Next, create your backdrop. You can purchase or make your own using materials like fabric, paper fans, origami, or fresh flowers. Get creative and incorporate your wedding theme or colour scheme.
Then, select your camera. Options include an Instax or Polaroid camera, a DSLR camera on a tripod, a phone on a selfie stick, or an iPad with a photo booth app. If using a phone or iPad, consider using an online gallery or app to collect and share the photos.
Finally, add some playful props to enhance the fun. These can include cardboard cut-outs, personalised wedding props, fancy dress items, inflatable props, or a glitter station.
With a little creativity and some fun accessories, you can easily make your own photo booth for your wedding, capturing memorable moments with your loved ones.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Somewhere close to the action, but out of sight, such as an alcove, around a corner, or a small room. |
| Camera | A good quality camera on a tripod with a remote control, a phone on a selfie stick, a tablet in a stand on a timer, a Polaroid-style camera, or a hired photo booth camera. |
| Instructions | Make it simple for guests, especially if they've been drinking! |
| Backdrop | A plain wall, sequin sheets, gold lametta tinsel, rustic palettes, fresh flowers, brick or stone walls, or a roll of seamless coloured paper. |
| Props | Feather boas, funny hats, celebrity masks, cheap wigs, printable props, cardboard props, personalised wedding props, fancy dress items, inflatable props, glitter. |
| Apps & Printing | Wedding Pixie, Photobox, Smartphone Printers, Wifibooth, Lumabooth, Simple Booth HALO®. |
What You'll Learn
- Camera options: Instax, DSLR, selfie stick, or tablet
- Photo booth apps
- Backdrop ideas: flower wall, van, residential setting, draped linens, colourful palette, neon sign, disco balls, etc
- Props: cardboard, personalised, fancy dress, inflatables, glitter station, etc
- Lighting: fairy lights, lanterns, ring light, etc
Camera options: Instax, DSLR, selfie stick, or tablet
There are a few different options for a DIY photo booth camera, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some options to consider:
Instax Camera
The Fujifilm Instax Mini Polaroid camera is a popular option for wedding photo booths. It is affordable, easy to use, and prints photos instantly, giving your guests a physical memento to take home. However, the film for these cameras can be expensive, and you may need to buy extra packs to ensure you don't run out during the event. It's also worth noting that each pack of film only contains 10 shots, and people may want to retake photos, so it's important to consider the cost and the potential waste involved.
DSLR Camera
Using a good quality DSLR camera on a tripod with a remote control can be a great option if you want high-quality photos. It requires delegating someone to ensure the camera is on the right settings and to check on it periodically. This option may be more suitable if you want to capture more formal or posed shots, rather than casual, candid photos.
Selfie Stick
A simple and cost-effective option is to use a phone on a selfie stick or a tablet mounted on a stand with a timer. This setup can be placed at eye level, allowing guests to take their own photos. However, the quality of the photos may not be as good as those taken with a DSLR or Instax camera, and there is no built-in printing option.
Tablet with Photo Booth App
Another option is to use a tablet with a photo booth app such as Simple Booth HALO®, which offers features like digital photo booth props, backdrops, and frames. This setup allows guests to choose filters and get their photos via text, email, or QR code. Additionally, you can print the photos using an AirPrint printer. However, this option requires purchasing the app and any necessary hardware, such as a tablet case, stand, and lighting.
In conclusion, when choosing a camera for your DIY wedding photo booth, consider your budget, the level of interaction you want your guests to have, and whether you want instant prints or digital photos. Each option has its pros and cons, so choose the one that best fits your specific needs and preferences.
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Photo booth apps
LumaBooth
LumaBooth is a professional photo booth app that can be used on an iPad, iPhone, or Mac. It offers a range of features such as custom layouts, editing options, stickers, filters, and versatile printing options. You can capture photos, GIFs, videos, and 360-degree footage, and share them via email, SMS, Instagram, QR code, AirDrop, WhatsApp, or physical prints. LumaBooth also has a monthly subscription option, which costs $19.99.
Simple Booth HALO®
Simple Booth HALO® is an iPad photo booth app that allows guests to create GIFs, photo strips, and more. It offers modern features like digital photo booth props, backdrops, and frames. Participants can choose a filter and get their photos by text, email, QR code, or print. The app costs $29 for a one-month subscription.
Fun2Booth
Fun2Booth is an affordable option at $1.99 for 200 photos, with no subscription or contract required. It offers features such as custom templates and easy sharing options. It is available on both iOS and Android devices.
Mini Photobooth
Mini Photobooth is an iPad app that has a timer, allowing users to set it up and then step back to join the group. You can set it to take a single photo or a burst of photos to create a photostrip.
Pocket Booth Party Pro
Pocket Booth Party Pro is an iPad app that allows you to lock the screen on the app, preventing guests from accessing other parts of your device. It offers customisation options for photo frames, the number of photos taken, and how they are displayed. Guests can send photos to themselves via WiFi.
Wedding Pixie
Wedding Pixie is an app that allows you to gather photographs and videos taken by guests on your wedding day using a handy link or QR code.
Other Options
Other photo booth apps worth considering include Photobox, Smartphone Printers, and Wifibooth.
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Backdrop ideas: flower wall, van, residential setting, draped linens, colourful palette, neon sign, disco balls, etc
A DIY photo booth is a great way to capture the candid moments of your wedding night. Here are some creative backdrop ideas to elevate your DIY photo booth:
Flower Wall
Fresh flowers are a beautiful and elegant way to elevate your photo booth. You can create a floral backdrop by attaching flowers to a wall or creating a freestanding floral wall. This idea is perfect for an outdoor wedding or a venue with a garden.
Van or Caravan
For a unique and quirky touch, consider setting up your photo booth in a van or caravan. This provides a fun and intimate space for guests to strike a pose. It also adds a vintage and whimsical feel to your wedding photos.
Residential Setting
If your wedding venue has interesting walls or backdrops, make use of them! A brick or stone wall can add a rustic or industrial touch to your photos. Look for interesting textures, colours, or patterns that will enhance your images.
Draped Linens
Draping linens or fabrics is a simple yet effective way to create a dreamy and romantic backdrop. Sheer curtains, tulle, or chiffon fabrics in soft colours like white, ivory, or blush can add a delicate touch to your photos. You can also add string lights to create a magical atmosphere.
Colourful Palette
Add a pop of colour to your photos with a vibrant backdrop. Consider a colourful curtain or a painted wall as your backdrop. You can choose colours that complement your wedding theme or go for a bold contrast to make your photos truly stand out.
Neon Sign
A custom neon sign is a trendy and modern way to elevate your photo booth. You can personalise the sign with your names, a fun quote, or a unique design. A neon sign will not only look amazing in photos but also doubles as wedding decor.
Disco Balls
For a fun and disco-themed backdrop, hang some disco balls and string lights. This idea is perfect for a wedding with a dance party theme. The reflective surfaces of the disco balls will create interesting light patterns and add a unique touch to your photos.
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Props: cardboard, personalised, fancy dress, inflatables, glitter station, etc
Props are a great way to add a creative, fun, and interactive element to your wedding photo booth, encouraging guests to let loose and get playful in front of the camera. Here are some ideas to elevate your DIY photo booth with exciting props:
- Signs and Chalkboards: Use chalkboard paint on plywood boards to create customisable signs. Include fun messages or directions for your guests, or leave mini chalkboards around the booth for guests to write their own messages. You can also create unique chalkboard cutouts in various shapes or frames for guests to pose with.
- Themed Props: Customise your props to match your wedding theme or colours. For example, if you're having a beach-themed wedding, provide beach-related props like sunglasses, inflatable beach balls, or seashells. If your wedding has a rustic theme, opt for props like straw hats, burlap, or mason jars.
- Speech Bubbles: Add a playful element with speech bubbles on sticks. These can be blank for guests to fill in their own messages, or you can write in funny phrases or inside jokes that your guests will appreciate.
- Costumes and Accessories: Provide a variety of hats, glasses, masks, wigs, and other dress-up items. These can be as elaborate or simple as you like, from royal crowns and tiaras to funny inflatable accessories.
- Glitter and Confetti: Add some sparkle to your photos with glittery props or a confetti station. Provide glittery musical instruments, sparkly top hats, or bowls of colourful confetti for guests to throw in the air.
- Inflatables: Inflatable props are a fun, unique addition to your photo booth. Offer inflatable guitars, microphones, or other musical instruments for a rockstar-themed wedding, or go for inflatable animals, pool floats, or other playful shapes.
- Personalised Props: Include props that reflect your interests and personalities. If you love cats, have a cutout of your feline friend for guests to pose with. If you're a fan of a particular movie, incorporate related props or costumes, like light sabers for a Star Wars-themed wedding.
- Frames: Provide various frames for guests to pose with, such as polaroid cut-out frames, chalkboard cutouts, or decorative vintage frames.
- Interactive Props: Encourage guests to interact and play with props like bubble machines, confetti poppers, or small handheld instruments.
With these ideas in mind, you can create a fun and engaging DIY photo booth experience that will leave your guests with unforgettable memories of your special day.
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Lighting: fairy lights, lanterns, ring light, etc
Lighting is a key component of any photo booth, and there are many ways to illuminate your DIY wedding photo booth. Fairy lights, for instance, can add a whimsical and festive touch to the setup. If you're going for a rustic or bohemian theme, fairy lights can be draped or hung from the ceiling to create a magical atmosphere. Similarly, lanterns can provide a soft and romantic glow, especially if you opt for ones with a warm-toned light. For a more modern look, consider using a ring light, which will give your photos a flattering and professional look. These lights are often used by influencers and photographers for their ability to provide even and shadowless illumination.
If you're looking to create a cosy or elegant atmosphere, consider using candles as your primary source of lighting. Just be sure to take the necessary safety precautions and keep an eye on them throughout the event. Another option is to use exposed Edison bulbs, which can lend an industrial or vintage feel to the photo booth. For a fun and playful touch, you could also hang curtains of lights or opt for a lightbox.
For a truly unique and memorable feature, a bespoke neon sign can be a great investment. This option can be more expensive, but it will surely impress your guests and double as a keepsake to display in your home after the wedding. Additionally, don't forget to consider the lighting for your camera. A ring light, as mentioned before, is a great option, but you could also use a Speedlite flash or a simple floor lamp placed near the camera, facing the backdrop.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a camera, a tripod, a remote shutter release, a backdrop, and props. You can use a basic digital point-and-shoot camera or a DSLR camera. For the backdrop, you can use a printed fabric sheet or get creative with items like coffee filters, Kraft paper, or foam boards. Props can include items from your closet, thrift stores, or printable templates.
Choose a spot that is easily accessible and doesn't obstruct the flow of the party. Consider a corner of the reception dance floor, a small adjoining room, or an outdoor area like a courtyard or gazebo. Ensure there is enough space for the backdrop and props, and measure the area beforehand.
You can create a backdrop that ties in with the wedding theme or colour scheme. Some ideas include a flower wall, a residential-style setting with wooden doors, draped linens, a colourful palette with balloons and blooms, a neon sign, a disco ball display, or a framed photo-style backdrop using metal rods and natural elements.
You can use an Instax camera for instant prints, a DSLR camera on a tripod, a selfie stick with a good-quality phone, or a tablet with a photo booth app. If using a tablet, consider apps like Mini Photobooth, Fun2Booth, Simple Booth HALO®, or Luma Booth, which offer features like timers, filters, and text or email sharing.
Provide clear instructions on how to use the photo booth and any props. You can also have a guest book where guests can stick their photos and leave a message. Use signage to draw attention to the photo booth, and ask your bridesmaids or ushers to guide guests to it. After the wedding, create an online album to share all the photo booth pictures.
