Top Tips for Renting Photo Booths for Your Event
Renting photo booths is essential for many events. You need a space where people can have fun and take photos of themselves to remember the day. It’s like a little memento generator, right there with you.
However, optimizing your rental isn’t straightforward. Simply hiring won’t necessarily deliver the value you want.
Fortunately, this guide can help. We offer top tips for renting photo booths for your events so you can make the most of them.
Here’s everything you need to know:
Understand Your Event Needs
You want to start by understanding your event’s needs. Knowing your requirements helps you rent a photo booth that fits your purpose.
For short events, consider renting photo booths for a brief period, such as half a day. These rentals make photo booths more affordable.
For longer events like weddings, hiring for the entire day is advisable. This gives you a longer runway if things don’t go to schedule.
You should also consider the formality of the event and props. For example, company events could benefit from booth branding while weddings might have oversized hats and glasses for fun.
Consider Different Photo Booth Options
With the basics pinned down, consider the specific type of photo booth to fit your event. Nowadays, rental companies offer multiple varieties, so it is worth exploring these before deciding.
For example, you could opt for:
A classic photo booth, offering simple pictures and print-outs
A green screen photo booth that allows guests to choose their background for dramatic effect
A GIF photo booth with special software that turns a short video sequence into meme-worthy content
A bus photo booth for themed events
A slow-motion photo booth that captures guests performing various moves at a fraction of the normal speed
A selfie photo booth for single guests looking for a memento
An inflatable photo booth that’s easy to set up anywhere
The best way to choose an option from this list is to imagine it in your space. What will it look like and will guests want it?
Check Reviews and Recommendations
Next, look for hire companies operating in your area that can provide you with the booth you want. Check their reviews online to see if they offer the expected quality.
Ideally, you want an average review score over 4 stars. Less than that could indicate problems with the equipment or delivery timing.
Sometimes local companies don’t have many reviews, so you can also pick based on local recommendations. Perhaps you know someone renting from a company who says they’re good.
Of course, the more established the firm, the better. However, photo booth rental is relatively straightforward so most providers should offer a reasonable service.
Red flags include things like:
Additional charges for digital copies of photos
Unclear delivery times at your venue
No pricing transparency
No help with setup
Inquire About Customization Options
When renting a photo booth, it is also helpful to inquire about customization options. These permit you to configure units to your event requirements.
Depending on the hiring company you choose, the options are almost limitless. For example, you can customize booths by:
Adding various backdrops and settings to meet your event theme
Using start screens so guests can interact with your branding (at corporate events)
Adjusting the photobooth style to fit the event setting (i.e. open-air or “magic mirror” style)
Adding digital props (so people can edit their photos after taking them)
Using templates for text overlays and graphics
Confirm Availability and Pricing
Confirming availability and pricing is also essential. You should know what you’re getting for your money.
Remember, some photo booths can be booked out for months. Therefore, it’s worth calling the company to discuss availability, especially if your event will run for a few days.
Pricing should also be reasonable. Most hire companies charge depending on:
The booth type (with magic mirror styles being more expensive than conventional options)
The location and demand (cities are often more expensive than rural areas)
The included features include customizations (the more bespoke the booth is, the more expensive it is likely to be)
The amount of time you will rent it out
You should expect to pay from $600 to $750 for a basic package and $850 to $1200 for premium options for an entire day. However, some providers are less expensive than this, making them ideal for budget events and celebrations.
Review Contract Terms and Policies
During this process, make sure you review the contract terms and policies. Check you understand your responsibilities during the hire period.
For example, always ensure you understand equipment care when renting photo booths. Most hire companies will set up units for you, but not always.
Check the equipment damage policy. When the kit arrives, look for damaged or broken parts immediately and record them.
Image rights are also a consideration. You need to ensure you and your guests have permission to use them.
Usually, providers will give you this information upfront–If they don’t probe them to see your rights and how your guests can use the images they take.
Coordinate Setup and Delivery Details
Once you confirm the contract terms and policies you then need to coordinate setup and delivery. Naturally, these arrangements are unique to your event.
Ideally, the photo booth will arrive a couple of hours before the event starts. This way, you can set it up along with everything else.
You will also need to check if delivery vehicles can access your location and the size of the photo booth. Carrying it through corridors or stairs can be tricky in some facilities.
Capture Fun Memories at Your Event
Finally, make sure you capture fun memories at your event. Ensure guests have all the tools they need to make the most of the equipment. Photo booths for events can be a fantastic addition to proceedings!
