Photo booths have come a long way from being just a trend to becoming a key part of making an event a success. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate function, or a birthday party you’re organising, a well-done photo booth can create lasting memories and boost attendance. More event management firms in the UK are realising how a photo booth rental can breathe life into a party.
This guide will walk you through the details you need to focus on to make your photo booth experience stand out, from using props and backdrops to striking a pose.
Choosing the Right Type of Photo Booth for Your Event
Picking the right photo booth is a great way to kick off with fun props and poses. The style of your booth can make or break your guests’ experience. There are various photo booth types to fit different occasions.
Traditional Photo Booths
The classic booth offers a private space and a blast from the past. It’s usually designed for a few friends, and you get those fun, old-school photo strips to hold onto. These booths are perfect for smaller events where people want a more low-key spot to have a good time.
Video Booths
Video booths are the way to go for a truly show-stopping experience at top-tier events. At Trez Entertainment, we’re talking 360° magic – our promo film setup has a platform for guests to step onto while a camera spins around them. The result is ultra-cool, slow-motion clips that guests can post right away on social media. What makes 360 booths special:
- Captures movement rather than static poses
- Creates shareable, high-quality video content
- Offers a unique experience that many guests haven’t tried before
- Perfect for showing off outfits from all angles
Magic Mirrors
These interactive mirrors are essentially photo booths that let guests see themselves when taking pictures. With a touchscreen, they can add digital props and their own signatures before the photos are printed. This type of product is really popular for events like weddings and high-end corporate functions.
Selfie Stations
Selfie stations are pretty simple to use. They often have a tablet attached to a stand. These kiosks take up less space and don’t need any extra gear, making them budget-friendly.
Creating the Perfect Photo Booth Backdrop
The backdrop sets the scene for your photo booth pictures, making the photo-taking experience more fun and creating a keepsake at the same time. By choosing the right one, you can turn a regular photo into an amazing memory.
Popular Backdrop Options
- Solid Colors: Solid backgrounds are super useful for any occasion. They’re really versatile. For corporate events, try using your brand colours to showcase your identity. It’s a great way to add some personality to your event.
- Sequin Backdrops: Add some sparkle to your special occasion with sequins that really shine. They come in a range of colours and are perfect for a big celebration or party where you want the photos to be amazing.
- Step & Repeat: These custom backdrops come with logos or event hashtags repeated all over. They’re ideal for corporate events and product launches where you need to get your brand noticed.
- Green Screen: Green screens are super versatile, making them perfect for adding digital backgrounds to photos. With one, your guests can transport themselves anywhere they like – from a tropical beach to outer space in an instant.
- Custom Designs: If you’re hosting memorable events, consider custom design backdrops that fit your theme. There are tons of cool options, from flower installations to balloon walls – the ideas are endless.
Matching Backdrops to Event Themes
If you are selecting a background, it will be good to match it with the general style of your event:
- Weddings: Create a romantic setting with floral backdrops, fabric drapes, or custom-made sets featuring the couple’s names.
- Corporate Events: Set the tone with brand-matched backdrops or steps & repeats displaying company logos.
- Birthday Parties: Make it a themed event with age-specific and colourful designs or custom backdrops.
- Seasonal Events: Get festive with holiday-themed or seasonal colours.
Props That Make Photos Pop
Props are a key part of what makes a photo booth a hit. They help people get creative, and they’re a great way to break the ice and make shy people feel more at ease. Props give people a chance to let loose and be themselves, which really adds to the fun of the photo booth experience.
Essential Photo Booth Props
Every successful photo booth should include:
- Hats, wigs, and headbands
- Glasses in various styles
- Speech bubbles and signs with funny sayings
- Moustaches, lips, and other facial props on sticks
- Boas, scarves, and costume jewellery
Theme-Specific Prop Ideas
Customise your prop selection to match your event theme:
- Wedding: Props for the happy couple, like signing “Bride” and “Groom”, fake rings, and “Just Married” banners
- Corporate: Company logos and mascots, products specific to your industry, and themed items
- Birthday: Props for a special age, like crowns, plaques, and a giant birthday cake cutout
- Holiday Events: Think Santa hats, Easter bunny ears, or creepy Halloween masks
Organising Your Props
Prop organisation can make or break the photo booth experience:
- Hang up your props and set aside a spot for them to be on display
- Group your props by type
- Ditch damaged items as you go and swap them for new ones
- Consider the extra cost of having a booth attendant to help you stay organised and suggest prop combinations
Strike a Pose: Guiding Guests to Great Photos
Even with great props and backdrops, sometimes guests can get stuck on how to pose. Having suggestion cards and an attendant on hand can make a big difference.
Solo Pose Suggestions
For guests posing alone, suggest these flattering options:
- Classic Hollywood Glamour: Own the space by standing with confidence, feet slightly apart, weight on one foot, and one hand on your hip. Flash a smile that says you’re feeling good about yourself.
- Red Carpet Walk: Take a step forward, glance over your shoulder, and give the camera a radiant smile, ideal for showcasing your outfit.
- The Power Pose: Stand tall with your hands on your hips, shoulders back, and a confident look on your face.
- The Prop Master: Give your props some serious attention, load up on accessories, and really get into character.
Group Pose Ideas
For friends and colleagues:
- Back-to-back poses with arms crossed
- Human pyramid (safety first!)
- “Charlie’s Angels” pose
- Height order lineup
- Group jump shot (perfect for 360 video booths)
Maximising Photo Booth Engagement
Having a fantastic photo booth is only half the battle – you need people to use it!
Strategic Placement
Where you position your photo booth matters:
- Put it somewhere people will see it, but it won’t be in the way.
- Make sure it’s close to the main event area.
- There should be enough room for lines to form without blocking other things.
- Check the power outlets and make sure the place meets your tech needs.
There are loads of event management companies that know their stuff and can help you decide on the best seating arrangement for your venue.
Promoting Your Photo Booth
- Point your guests in the right direction with signs to the photo booth
- Get your host or MC to give a shout-out about the booth
- Show off what they can expect by displaying a sample pic near the booth
- Create a one-of-a-kind hashtag for sharing on social media
Questions to Ask Before Booking a Photo Booth Rental
When speaking with photo booth rental providers, ask:
- What packages are available, and what are the contents?
- Could I have a look at pictures from your previous events?
- How much space do you want?
- What options are open to customisation?
- What is the longest time it takes to set up and tear down?
- How does the provider respond when technical problems occur?
Key Takeaway
A photo booth is more than just a good time – it’s a great way to create lasting memories and content that’s worth sharing. This can even help extend the impact of your event. To make it a hit, choose the right type of booth, create a visually appealing backdrop, and provide fun props. Also, give your guests some pose suggestions to help them get started. With these tips, you can be sure your photo booth will be the main attraction at your event.
Planning a professional event requires careful consideration of both the source and purpose to ensure they are suitable. Success often hinges on the little things, so pay attention to details, whether you’re running the show or collaborating with event management companies.
Ready to turn your next event into a photo booth experience to remember? Reach out to Trez Entertainment to check out our latest cutting-edge video booths and photo experiences. These will have your guests talking long after the party’s over.
