Photo Booth Checklist: What to Check Before Booking
Choosing a photo booth involves more than selecting a package and choosing a backdrop. The booth needs to suit your venue, your guests and the type of photos you want to create. Before making a booking, consider the following points.
1. Booth dimensions and guest numbers
A larger booth may allow more people to appear in each photo, but that does not necessarily mean it will create better images. Large setups can require considerable floor space once you include props, a table, lighting equipment, a guestbook or an attendant’s area.
Before booking, confirm the booth’s complete space requirements with the supplier and check that it will fit comfortably at your venue. You should also consider access to the setup area, including lifts, stairs, narrow corridors and doorways.
Think about the atmosphere you want from the photos. A high-capacity booth is useful for large groups, while a smaller booth can create more energetic and expressive images. When only a few people are squeezed into the frame, the photographs often focus more on personality, poses and facial expressions rather than simply looking like standard group photographs.
Ask to see genuine examples from the booth you are considering. The final photo style can differ significantly between models and operators.
2. Photo layout and print format
Not every photo booth produces the same type of print. Traditional strips are commonly printed in a narrow 2 × 6-inch format, usually featuring several smaller images arranged vertically.
Other booths may offer:
Three-image or four-image strips.
Five- or six-frame layouts.
Larger 4 × 6-inch prints.
Single photographs rather than strips.
A choice between vertical and horizontal designs.
The layout can have a major effect on how the finished product looks. If you want a classic photo-booth experience, check that the package includes the strip format you prefer. If you are looking for something more suitable for framing or displaying at home, a larger print may be the better option.
It is also worth checking whether your names, event date, logo or custom artwork can be included in the design.
3. Number of prints per session
Find out exactly how many physical copies guests receive after each session. Many packages provide two copies, allowing guests to keep one while the other is placed into a guestbook.
If you are planning to create an album, check whether the operator provides:
A guestbook or album.
Extra prints for the book.
Glue, pens or other supplies.
An attendant to help organise the pages.
Additional copies for larger groups.
Some systems print and cut multiple copies automatically, while others produce one print at a time or require the strips to be separated manually. These details may seem minor, but they can affect the guest experience, particularly at busy weddings and corporate events.
Do not assume that unlimited prints or duplicate copies are included. Confirm the exact arrangement before paying a deposit.
4. Venue requirements and setup conditions
Most photo booths need access to a reliable power supply. This can make some outdoor locations unsuitable unless there is an appropriate electrical connection nearby.
Outdoor events may also require:
A solid, level surface.
Protection from rain, wind and direct sunlight.
A marquee or other covered area.
Sufficient lighting after dark.
Protection from dust, moisture and temperature changes.
Ask the operator about their weather policy and whether outdoor use is permitted. A booth that works perfectly indoors may not be suitable for an exposed garden, park or beach location.
The equipment may also be heavier and larger than expected. Confirm whether the supplier needs stairs avoided, vehicle access provided or a particular loading area reserved. If the booth cannot be taken apart, check that it can pass through the venue’s doors and corridors.
5. Accessibility for every guest
Your photo booth should be enjoyable and usable for as many guests as possible. Traditional enclosed booths can be too narrow for wheelchair users or guests who need additional room to move.
When comparing options, ask whether the setup includes:
Wheelchair-accessible entry.
A spacious open-air design.
Adequate room for mobility aids.
Suitable camera positioning.
Assistance from an attendant.
Seating or support for guests who need it.
Children also require special consideration. Some cameras are positioned too high for young guests, which may leave their faces partially out of frame. A lower camera system, adjustable setup or booster seat can help.
For children’s parties, family events or inclusive celebrations, an open-air booth is often more flexible than a small enclosed booth.
6. Ask for the complete package details
Before booking, request a clear breakdown of what is included. Important questions include:
How much floor space is required?
How long does setup and pack-down take?
Is an attendant included?
Are props supplied?
How many prints are included?
Are digital copies available?
Is delivery included in the quoted price?
What happens if the event is outdoors?
Can the design be customised?
Are there additional travel, access or overtime charges?
A good photo booth is not simply the one with the most space or the lowest price. The right choice is the setup that fits your venue, matches the style of photos you want and gives all of your guests an enjoyable experience.