How to Set Up Your Own DIY Photo Booth

Photo booths are still proving to be very popular for weddings. Lots of couples are choosing to create a one-of-a-kind booth and often friends and family are roped in to help!

What will you need:

The Camera Equipment
A basic digital point-and-shoot camera works perfectly for a DIY photo booth. You’ll also need a tripod that’s tall enough to extend to eye level and a remote shutter release for the camera (available online or at camera shops).  A remote shutter release allows guests to take their own photo, letting you enjoy the party instead of playing photographer all night. Some attach to the camera with a cable, others operate wirelessly.

The Lighting
For a truly professional photo booth, good lighting is a must. A spotlight and photography umbrella (available online or at camera supply shops) diffuses the light and adds a flattering glow to friends’ faces. If you opt against lighting equipment, turn your camera’s flash on or place a floor lamp beside the camera facing the backdrop.

The Backdrop
This is where you get to show off your creative skills.  A printed fabric backdrop is most common, but why limit yourself to store-bought options? Make one that adds life to the photos.

Create a chevron-inspired backdrop with black foam board, a glue stick and jumbo gold sequins. Draw the chevron stripes using a ruler, then fill in rows of sequins. For a more colorful backdrop, try dipping the tips of coffee filters into multi-hued fabric dyes, then affixing to a foam board for a floral effect. For a simpler backdrop, hang a section of Kraft paper and paint it with gold stripes or polka dots.