You’ve probably attended an event (a conference, a wedding, or a private party) where picture-taking stations are available, and you may have wondered if adding one to your event is worth it. You’ll need to consider your budget and goals for your event, of course, but that’s what we’re here for! We did some digging around for ya—you’re welcome.
Reasons to Include a Selfie Station
If your event is very formal and academic, a photo booth might not jive with the vibe, but in general, you get a lot of bang for the buck by including one at your gathering:
- It’s fun for attendees of all ages and abilities. Most people love a little silliness, from 8 years old to 80. Few activities are ideal for that age range, and this is one of them.
- You can promote your event or organization. Most photo booths have a way of customizing the pics with your event name and date on them—and when people share them on social media, it’s immediate and free promotion.
- It instantly adds a fun atmosphere to your gathering. Selfie stations are fun and cost-effective ways to entertain and make memories while getting to know your friends and colleagues better. We defy you to think of an event that included a photo booth where the attendees were not hysterically laughing and showing each other their pictures.
- Pictures are ideal event souvenirs. We have numerous photo booth pics from years of attending industry conferences and garden shows, and it’s fun to look back on those memories with friends and colleagues.
- It’s relatively affordable. Photo booth rentals typically run anywhere from $700–$1200, depending upon the features you want and the length of time you need to have it at your event. Selfie stations for your iPad cost around $1500 to purchase (great if you want to use it again and again for future events) or you can rent the software (how does $30–$50 grab you?) and use your own iPad to save major benjamins.
Tips for Planning Your Selfie Station
You have quite a few options, from simple and fun to all the silly or extravagant bells and whistles.
- Decide if you want a photo booth or a “selfie station” with an iPad. Photo booths are typically enclosed booths that snap a few pics in a row and then dispense them outside the booth. Selfie stations can be an iPad setup that emails pics to your guests. Hybrid setups have a backdrop with props and either an attendant taking pics or an iPad with installed software. Either one can have an attendant or be self-run.
- Do an internet search on photo booth rentals in your area. Look at the features they offer and compare prices between companies to get the best deal.
- Decide if you want props or not. Masks, glasses, wigs, and signs can be fun ways of adding some entertainment, but don’t forget garden hats, artificial plants, and gloves. Dollar or craft stores are great places to stock up on inexpensive props. Remember your backdrop as well! Some are easy to create while others can come with your rental package.
- Determine which part of your event needs the photo booth or selfie station. You might want the photo booth up all weekend at your event, or perhaps only during the opening happy hour or closing party. It’s up to you and your budget and goals.
- Make sure the attendant, if you have one, is up for the job. The attendant may come with your rental package, or you can have one of your staffers or volunteers do the job. Regardless, this is a fun experience and the attendant needs to have the exuberant personality required—no grumpy, timid, or antisocial interactions allowed!
