A photo booth provides a keepsake of your wedding for each guest and a variety of funny pictures that a regular photographer may not capture. Indeed, people are much more at ease in front of a machine, controlling their image, than in front of a stranger vendor asking them for funny pictures.
That’s why I’ve built my unique photo booth and offer it for free in most of my packages.
Note on the why of the photobooth: As a photographer, I had a poor opinion of Photo booth rentals. I changed my mind after attending my best friend’s wedding and having fun all night.
I realized how amazing the experience was for guests and how much the bride and groom would enjoy seeing the photos later.
So, to differentiate my business and offer the best service, I created the photobooth and included it in all packages. If you want to see how French-Touch Photography stands out from other wedding photographers, check my portfolio and explore the tools and guides we provide to future brides and grooms: the timeline generator, the guide to build your timeline, the golden hour calculator, your guide to dressing for an engagement session, and your guide to getting married in Rochester, MN, just to name a few.
Now, let’s talk about the photobooth.
Table of Contents
Characteristic of the photo booth
The machine enclosure is 4 feet tall, 2 feet wide, and 1 foot deep. It features a lightning panel, a camera, and an iPad with dedicated software. The photography technology itself is automatic and controlled by the iPad. The photo booth is mainly operated, so you’ll need to have an outlet nearby.
It may also require some maintenance for changing the paper roll.
In consequence, if you want prints, the assistant photographer will stay close to the machine, making sure everything works fine. Indeed, although it’s a simple technology, a bug or an inadvertent use can always happen.
How to get the best out of your photo booth?
The simplest way to use it is to let your guests have fun. Some couples may also use it to create another souvenir of their wedding.
Create a personalized guest book.
A smart way to use your photo booth keepsake and turn it into great memories is to create an alternative wedding guest book. (Note: Check our Guest Book album, which is also a great alternative to a boring wedding guest book.)
Your guests can paste their funny print on an album and leave you a message. You can also do that with Polaroid (but Polaroids are more expensive).
Hang or pin pictures.
A playful way to use your print is to hang or pin it.
Take a beautiful frame and attach some twine string with a clothespin on it. Or buy a nice Pinboard (you can find some original ones on Etsy).
Each time your guests take pictures, they can attach or pin a print to it.
You can also hang them on a wire like people do with little cardboard cards.
All you need to know about our photo booths
Unlimited Prints
Unlimited Prints (one photo per session) are included in all packages.
If your coverage does not include prints, you can still choose this option.
What sizes are the prints
The prints are 4 × 6 inches long, including six small pictures, like the identity picture format.
Larger dimensions are possible on request with additional cost.
Are the pictures retouched?
All the pictures taken by the photo-booth camera enter my workflow, and thus are treated like your engagement or ceremony pictures.
Do you have access to the Digitals?
Yes, you and your guests can enjoy them in your web gallery.
Starting and Ending Time: How many hours are included?
You can start it when you want.
I usually start it during dinner, but I can start sooner, during the cocktail hour.
The booth service ends when your photographer leaves, so ensure you and your guests enjoy it before I finish my coverage.
Ask the DJ to make an announcement
Quality of the sensor: Can it handle different skin tones?
After receiving bad engagement pictures (from other photographers), a couple who were looking for a photographer for their mixed-race wedding ceremony worried about the quality of my camera and my ability to capture both bright and dark skin tones at the same time.
I confess I was a bit surprised by this question. The answer is that there is no problem as long as the picture is well exposed and the sensor is good. And it’s the case. So don’t worry about that.
Best Place to Set Up the Photo Booth
Your venue has a variety of options. Photographers recommend installing it next to the gift table (where you can showcase your engagement session album or memories).
Our photo booth doesn’t need any fancy place or a special background. You only need a clean wall and an electric outlet (for the printer).
Space needed
For this purpose, I will set up the photo booth in the corner of your reception room (or an adjacent room) or close to a wall.
Consider a 10×10 square feet area.
“Can we enter a physical photo booth?”
The photo booths we offer are a simple enclosure for taking portraits of people. So there is no room to enter. If you do want a dedicated room, then renting an inflatable tent can be an extra option.
Lightning and what to avoid
The system includes its own lighting setup (an LED panel and flashes), making it effective even in low-light situations. You only need adequate light for your guests to pick up their prints or to select their props (if any).
Avoid
Avoid having your guests standing under a direct source of light. That can interfere with the camera exposure (resulting in a dark picture), and it can create an ugly yellow/orange light.
Can You Set It Up Outside?
It’s possible to set up the photo booth outside, depending on the weather. We would need a shady area (without direct sun on your guests) and a plain wall for the background.
The system cannot work under 30°F.
Do we bring Backdrops?
No. We usually use your venue’s wall as the background for your pictures.
If you want a special backdrop, we will be happy to help you (glitter tissue, Jersey, linen, or simple colored photo paper backdrop).
Be aware that some material works better than others. You want to avoid any material that is too reflective, or that is subject to wrinkles (such as cheap Jersey, cotton, or printed plastic sheet).
Choose the size of the backdrop you need (if you decide that you need one).
If you want to order a backdrop, we recommend a minimum of 6 feet. Eight feet is better for large groups.
Using a Green Backdrop for Incrustation?
Yes, that’s technically possible, even if I haven’t done it yet. Let’s discuss that prior to your event, if you want to do that.
Create your own Scenery.
Some couples would have fun creating a stage background, using chairs, haystacks, tables, and other furniture.
If you want to do that, the best is that the photographer (or the assistant) sets up some flash and takes the pictures.
Props
For practical and sanitation purposes, we do not include props with our booth.
You can easily buy some on the internet, on Amazon, Etsy, or in your local store or a Dollar Tree.
If your wedding has a special theme, it’s the opportunity to include human disguises.
List of props usually used:
- Chalkboard (don’t forget the chalk for your chalkboard)
- Funny Hats
- Funny headband
- Scarf
- Googles
- Panels with messages
- Plastic toys: sword, hammer, pistol, magic stick
Other questions
What if Other Vendors (Venue, DJ) Already Offer You Photo Booth Rental Services?
The photo booth offered is a free service for the bride and groom’s reception. It happens that other vendors (the DJ or the Venue) have the same idea. If you don’t need it, it’s simple, I won’t bring it, and instead, I will offer you some prints.
Do we offer only the photo booth rental option?
No, we are a wedding photography company first and offer the photo booth as a gift to increase the value of all our photo coverage packages. We are not a photo booth rental company, and we don’t rent the photobooth alone.
Photo Booth FAQ
Here you’ll find answers to common questions about our photo booth service!
I. General Information & Booking
Q: What is the style of your photo booth? A: Our photo booth is an open-air “Borne” or ATM-style unit. This means it’s not an enclosed booth, allowing more guests to easily join in the fun!
Q: How do we book the photo booth for our event? A: The photo booth is included at no additional cost with all our main photography packages. If you choose à la carte photography coverage, you can add the photo booth service for an extra fee.
Q: What packages do you offer that include the photo booth? A: The photo booth is included in all our photography packages that feature 10 hours or more of coverage and an engagement session.
Q: Is the photo booth available as a standalone rental, or only as part of a photography package? A: The photo booth service is not available as a standalone rental; it must be booked alongside our photography coverage. However, if you opt for à la carte photography coverage, you can add the photo booth for an additional fee. Please inquire about the current rate.
Q: What information do you need from us to book the photo booth? A: When you book your photography package that includes the photo booth, we’ll gather all necessary details such as the event date, venue (place), and the desired duration for photo booth operation (typically aligned with your photography coverage).
Q: How far in advance should we book the photo booth? A: We recommend booking the photo booth at the same time you book your main photography package to ensure its availability. If your initial photography package doesn’t include it, you can typically add the photo booth service later, subject to availability, up until your event planning is finalized with us.
Q: What is your policy on cancellations or rescheduling for the photo booth service? A: If your photography package includes the photo booth and you decide you don’t need it, you can opt to receive 50 complimentary 4×6 prints instead. For policies regarding rescheduling the photo booth service, these would generally align with the rescheduling terms for your main photography contract. Please refer to your contract or discuss with us for specific details.
II. Setup & Logistics
Q: How long does it take to set up the photo booth? A: Setting up the photo booth typically takes about 20 minutes.
Q: What are your power and space requirements for the photo booth? A: We require a standard electrical outlet near the setup area (we bring extension cords). The setup also needs a level surface and a wall to serve as the backdrop. The photo booth itself will be positioned approximately 4 feet from this wall, and the wall space should be at least 6 feet wide.
Q: Can the photo booth be set up outdoors? What are the weather limitations? A: Yes, the photo booth can be set up outdoors, provided the temperature is above 70°F. It must be in a dry location with no risk of rain. Additionally, the booth needs to be placed in a shaded area, and the backdrop wall should also be shaded to ensure optimal photo quality.
Q: Do you require a Wi-Fi connection at the venue for any features? A: No, a Wi-Fi connection at the venue is not required for the photo booth to operate.
Q: Can the photo booth be moved during the event if needed? A: While it’s technically possible to move the photo booth during an event, it would require disassembly, relocation, and reassembly. This process would take time away from your active photography coverage. Therefore, we strongly recommend choosing a final location for the photo booth before the event begins to avoid interruptions.
Q: How do you handle cleanup after the event? A: At the end of our photography coverage, we will pack up the photo booth and remove any materials used for its installation, such as securing tape. Please note, while we ensure our equipment area is cleared, we are not responsible for cleaning up food or drinks left behind by guests in the photo booth vicinity.
III. During the Event – Operation & Guest Experience
Q: Is an attendant provided to help guests with the photo booth? A: No dedicated attendant is provided, as the photo booth is designed to be a simple self-service machine. However, if your photography package includes a second shooter, they may be available to offer occasional assistance to guests, though their primary role will be capturing candid event photos. If they are assisting with the booth, they won’t be simultaneously taking other candid shots.
Q: How easy is it for guests of all ages (including elderly guests or children) to use the photo booth? A: It’s very easy! Guests simply press the “Start” button on the screen, and the photo booth does the rest, automatically taking a sequence of 6 photos and then printing the result.
Q: How do guests know how to operate the photo booth? Are there on-screen instructions? A: The on-screen interface is very intuitive. A clear “Start” button initiates the process. After the photo session, guests will see an on-screen prompt inviting them to enter their email address if they’d like to receive their photos digitally.
Q: Is there a limit to how many people can be in one photo, given it’s an open-air style? A: Being an open-air style booth, there’s no strict technical limit. It really depends on how many people can comfortably fit into the camera’s frame! While you can squeeze more in, 10 to 15 people will result in a very crowded (but fun!) photo.
Q: Can guests retake photos if they don’t like the first attempt? A: The photo booth takes a sequence of photos in one session and doesn’t offer an immediate retake option for individual shots within that sequence. However, guests are welcome to start a new session immediately afterward if they’d like to try again!
Q: What happens if the photo booth malfunctions during our event? Do you have a backup plan? A: In the unlikely event of a malfunction, please notify your photographer immediately. We carry a backup printer to address common printing issues. While we don’t have a complete backup photo booth unit on-site, if a significant technical issue prevents the photo booth from operating for a substantial portion of the event, we will provide you (the client) with 100 complimentary 4×6 prints as compensation.
Q: What’s your backup plan if there’s a power outage at the venue? A: The photo booth requires continuous power to operate. Unfortunately, we do not have a backup power solution (like a generator) in the event of a venue-wide power outage. Operation would resume once power is restored at the venue.
IV. Photos – Props, Prints & Digital
Q: Are props included (e.g., hats, signs, boas)? Or should we supply our own? A: Props are not included with our photo booth service. However, you are more than welcome to provide your own fun hats, signs, or other props for your guests to enjoy!
Q: Can guests access their photos immediately, or do they need to wait? A: Guests who opt for prints will receive them within a minute of their session. For digital copies, if guests provide their email address, the photos are typically sent out the day after the event.
Q: If prints are offered: How long does it take for prints to come out after the photos are taken? A: Prints are quick! They typically come out in less than a minute after the photo session is complete.
Q: What size are the prints? A: Our standard prints are 4×6 inches.
Q: Are prints unlimited for the duration of the service? A: Yes, guests can enjoy unlimited photo sessions throughout the duration the booth is operational! Each session produces one 4×6 print for them to keep.
Q: What file format are the digital photos provided in? A: The digital photos are provided as JPEG files, measuring 1800 x 1200 pixels.
Q: How do guests access digital copies of their photos during or after the event? A: Guests who provide their email address at the photo booth will receive their digital photos directly via email, typically the day after the event.
Q: Can guests share photos directly to social media from the photo booth or an associated kiosk? A: Currently, direct social media sharing from the photo booth is not available. Guests will receive their digital photos via email and can then share them to their social media platforms as they wish.
V. Customization & Branding
Q: Can we add our names, wedding date, or a custom logo/text to the digital photos or photo prints? A: Absolutely! We can add your names and wedding date to the top of both the digital images and the prints. If you have a specific logo, we can often incorporate that as well. Additionally, we personalize the photo booth’s welcome screen with a photo from your engagement session for a special touch!
Q: Can we customize the photo layout or template (e.g., number of photos, orientation)? A: We use a standard, popular layout designed to be fun and engaging for your guests. Currently, this standard layout is the primary option.
Q: Do you offer different photo strip designs or digital overlay themes to choose from? A: We offer one primary print design: a 4×6 print featuring a sequence of 6 photos displayed side by side. This classic layout ensures everyone gets a great collection of shots!
Q: Can the on-screen interface of the photo booth be customized to match our event theme? A: Yes, we offer some customization for the on-screen interface. We can adjust the font, font color, background color, and the main welcome image (typically using one of your engagement photos) to better complement your event’s theme.
Q: Can you create custom digital props or filters? A: Currently, we do not offer custom digital props or filters within the photo booth software.
VI. Post-Event & Delivery
Q: When will we (the hosts) receive our digital gallery of all the photo booth pictures from the event? A: You will receive the complete digital gallery of all photo booth images. Officially, these are delivered along with your main wedding photo gallery. However, we often provide access to the photo booth gallery much sooner, typically within the week following your event.
Q: In what format will we receive the full gallery (e.g., online gallery, USB drive)? A: The full collection of photo booth images will be delivered to you via a private online gallery, making it easy to view and download your photos.
Q: Can we get a USB drive of all the photo booth images? Is there an additional cost for this? A: Yes, a USB drive containing all the photo booth images can be provided for an additional fee. We do not offer CDs.
Q: How long will the online gallery be available? A: Your online photo booth gallery will remain active and accessible for 3 months from the delivery date.
VII. Pricing & Add-ons
Q: What is the cost for the photo booth service? A: The photo booth is included with our main photography packages. If you’re considering it as an add-on to à la carte coverage, the current price will be provided along with your personalized photography quote. Prices are confirmed at the time of booking.
Q: How long is the standard rental period for the photo booth? A: The photo booth is typically operational from the start of your cocktail hour until the end of your contracted photography coverage. For example, if your cocktail hour begins at 5 PM and your photography coverage ends at 10 PM, the photo booth would be available for 5 hours.
Q: Is there any extra fee for travel or extended hours? A: For extended hours, if you’d like the photo booth (and photography coverage) for an additional hour beyond your package, the standard overtime rate for photography coverage would apply. We provide complimentary travel within a 90-mile radius of Rochester, Minnesota, which includes areas like Minneapolis, St. Paul, and parts of Wisconsin and Iowa.
Q: Do you charge for travel to venues outside a certain area (e.g., outside Rochester, MN)? A: Yes, for venues located beyond our 90-mile complimentary travel radius from Rochester, MN, an additional travel fee will apply. If the destination is more than a 2-hour drive one-way and our coverage extends late into the evening, we may also require accommodation (e.g., a hotel room).
Q: What are the costs for extended hours if we want the photo booth longer than the initially agreed time? A: The cost for extended hours (which includes both photography coverage and photo booth operation) will be based on our current overtime rate. This rate will be clearly outlined in your photography contract or provided when you request to extend your coverage.
Q: Are there any additional fees we should be aware of (e.g., for specific customizations, idle time)? A: We believe in transparency. Our pricing is straightforward, and there are no hidden fees. Any potential additional costs, such as for travel beyond our standard radius or specific premium add-ons (if requested), will be discussed and agreed upon with you upfront.
VIII. Additional Considerations
Q: Image Quality: What is the resolution of the photos taken by the photo booth? Are they high enough quality for printing larger images? A: Yes, the photo booth captures high-quality images at 20 megapixels. The resulting JPEGs (1800×1200 pixels) are excellent for social sharing, standard prints, and are sometimes even included in our clients’ wedding albums.
Q: Backdrops: Do you provide a backdrop? If so, what options are available? Can we use our own custom backdrop? A: We do not provide a physical backdrop for the photo booth, as it’s designed to use a venue wall. However, you are absolutely welcome to provide your own custom backdrop! We recommend a backdrop that is at least 8 feet wide for the best results.
Q: Data Privacy: How is guest data (like email addresses, if collected for sharing) handled and protected? A: We value your guests’ privacy. If email addresses are collected at the photo booth, they are used for the specific and sole purposes of:
- Sending guests their digital photos directly from the event.
- Providing guests with information on how to access your complete online wedding gallery. We are committed to responsible handling of this information. Guest email addresses will not be sold to third parties or used for any unrelated marketing communications from us. Access to this information is limited, and we use it only to deliver the photo booth services and gallery information as agreed. Once these services are fulfilled, we manage the data appropriately. If you or your guests have any specific concerns, please feel free to discuss them with us.
Q: Insurance: Are you insured? A: Yes, French Touch Photography is fully insured. We can provide a certificate of insurance (COI) to your venue upon request.
Q: Idle Time: If we need the booth set up early but not operational until later (e.g., set up before ceremony, operational during reception), do you charge for idle time? A: No, we generally do not charge for idle time if you need the photo booth set up earlier than its operational start time (e.g., set up before the ceremony but active during the reception). We understand scheduling needs and will coordinate the setup timing with you.
