Say Cheese!

There's something about a photo booth that makes us smile. It brings you back to those childhood days when you and your friends or your boyfriend/ girlfriend would run off to make silly faces or capture a kiss on cute little photo strips. Later you'd hang them on a cork board or your locker to remind you of that fun moment. Photo booths are a great because not only do they provide an activity, but also a souvenir, so why not incorporate one into your next event. Nowadays you can easily rent one for a party or simply make one yourself. Here's what you'll need...

Build a simple free standing wall with a cutout like this one from Edyta Blog. You can also try making multiple cut outs so guest can interact with each other while posing in their own "frame".

Wall decals like this one from Design Your Walls make a great backdrop that is easily removed.

Decorate a screen like they did hear from The Knot to use as a pretty backdrop.

First set up the area where you want to have the "photo booth". It's best to have a semi private area like a corner or small area behind a door or screen so that there is an element of surprise when capturing the photos and guests feel more comfortable and free to be silly. You can go as elaborate or as simple as you want from there. If you are handy, you can built a faux wall with cut-outs or you can simply use a blank wall or open area. Play with the backdrop to create something that will go with the theme of your event by hanging wallpaper, fabric, curtains, etc. 

Photo prop set from Etsy

image from The knot

Try hanging painted frames to create an area for guests to pose in like they did here

Add some fun props to help your guests get into the spirit. You can make your own with free printables like we found here or purchase some already made. You can also use things like vintage hats, wigs, sunglasses, etc to add to the fun. Old oversized picture frames also make a great prop and are fun for guests to pose with. 

Photo from Leigh Graves Wolf

Software makes it easy to turn your computer into a "photo booth"

To capture the photos you can use either a Polaroid camera, a digital camera on a tripod and photo printer, or your computer. If you're using your computer you can easily print, email, and upload photos with a program like Spark Booth or Seemonkey. Alright, now you're ready for your close up! Say Cheese!