Category: Photo Booths

Hiring a wedding photo booth? Here are some invaluable tips & stories from CaptureME Photo Booth.

Wedding photo booth tips from CaptureME photo booth

Hiring a wedding photo booth? Here are some invaluable tips & stories from CaptureME Photo Booth.

Published June 13, 2024

We recently talked with Jess Santos, owner of CaptureME Photo Booth in Colorado, about what couples should look for when renting a wedding photo booth, what questions to ask, what to expect, and more.

If you’re looking for a wedding photo booth rental, read Jess’s answers first! She provides insights that only someone who really knows this business can provide.

Read on to learn what questions to ask when hiring a photo booth for your wedding.

Why have a photo booth at the wedding alongside a traditional photographer?

Jess: Photo Booths can be an icebreaker which can help get your party going. Not everyone loves the traditional photographer who roams around taking styled and posed photos. However, you add some silly outfits and signs with the funniest saying on them and even grandpa will join in the fun. A photo booth allows your guests to let loose and be themselves. Plus our photos double as a guest favor and everyone loves instant prints.

Key takeaways: Photo booths provide a casual, relaxed photo experience, plus everyone gets pictures to take home from your wedding.

A scapbook, Sharpie markers, glue sticks, and two metal buckets with lip balm and photo folders with on a table by a photo booth.

What questions should couples ask when renting a photo booth?

Jess: Always ask to see their output and event setup photos. Ask what equipment they are using and have an idea on what you’re looking for. Do you want a digital iPad Booth or a Booth with a DSLR Camera and Studio flash? Look for quality work when sorting out vendors. Be picky but keep in mind that quality does cost, but it doesn’t cost an arm and and leg. Don’t rush to book. Ensure you’re booking the right vendor who’s right for you and can provide the level of service you’re expecting to receive.

Key takeaways: There’s a difference in photo booth equipment and service; ask about it! Make sure their photo portfolio meets your expectations.

A dSLR photo booth set up with a touch screen below the camera hole. Photo booth folders, lip balm, and business cards sit on a table beneath the touch screen.

Do any of your clients have regrets after renting your booth?

Jess: We have an average of 75% referral rate. Most times my clients say they didn’t book enough time. No one ever books enough time, they are worried about budgets. I’ve also been told, “I wish I would have taken more photos.” We do our best to make sure the guest of honor makes it to the photo booth. We approach the Bride and or Groom and/or parents of the B&G to let them know where we are at on time and that we still need to get those family photos. We’ll remind them once or twice but if they are too busy or have other activities going on, it’s hard for them to find time to get into the photo booth.

Key takeaways: Either book extra time for your wedding photo booth, or schedule in time to get all the photos you need (ie, family, friend groups).

What’s your most memorable wedding photo booth experience?

Jess: We work a lot of weddings and with our referrals we see a lot of our past clients come through the booth as guests. This one particular wedding we did was 9 months prior and I saw the B&G (now happily married for 9 months) standing in line. They got out of line, came over to give me the biggest hug you could imagine and said, “you made our wedding” “we love the photos and the memory book you created for us” “we look at that book every night.” It means a great deal to me to know that my passion for creating a memorable evening carries on longer than I could ever imagine.

Key takeaways: If you had a fun photo booth experience, let them know! Online reviews are great, or if you see them at another event, go say hi. Feedback helps small businesses thrive and grow.

Photo booth set up for CaptureME, with a white backdrop and full prop tables on each side.

What was the biggest disaster—and how could it have been avoided?

Jess: Our biggest disaster was setting up outdoors for a large corporate employee appreciation event. I knew 10 days out the weather wasn’t going to be great and that heavy rain was in the forecast. I reached out to the client many times with our concerns over the rain and was told the event is outdoors and the show must go on. I was assured that they had the proper canopies and that we’d be protected from the sun, wind, and/or rain. We arrived ahead of time to set up and when we arrived at our setup location we were provided canopies that were old with holes everywhere. I set up knowing this was not going to end well and within minutes of go time the rain was pouring down on us. There were no side walls to the canopies so rain was coming at us from all directions, including above us. Our equipment, the booth, printer, backdrop, props, basically everything was soaked. We no longer set up outdoors without a weather clause and a weather clause has to be signed prior to booking.

Key takeaways: Even if the weather forecast says sunny skies, have a back-up plan! Make sure you discuss this with the photo booth team before your event so everyone is on the same page. Like Jess has, ask about a weather clause.

How have you used Studio Style products with your booth?

Jess: We use Studio Style folders as part of our advertising. We include a logo, a QR code to our website, our contact information and a “thank you” for visiting our photo booth which is included on the folders. This is a small expense and a great way to keep our logo, name, and business out in the general public. It’s cost effective as most clients keep their folders since they keep their photos in them.

Key takeaways: We love making photo booth folders for CaptureME! Check out a recent design we created:

A collection of photo folders stacked in a metal bucket with picture strips in front.

About CaptureME Photo Booth

“Our photo booths are more than just machines – they’re interactive, customizable, and designed to bring people together.” Now THAT’S a statement to stand behind! CaptureME Photo Booth serves select cities in Colorado, including Denver, Fort Collins, Johnstown, Windsor, Greeley, Loveland, and Berthoud.

But this Colorado photo booth company doesn’t just do weddings. They also work birthday parties, corporate events, and any celebration in between.

If you’re in Colorado and looking for a photo booth for your wedding or event, check them out on Instagram or Facebook.

About Studio Style

We help party people get their event pictures home safe and sound. We design and manufacture custom photo folders, paper frames, photo mats, photo cards, and more. We work with party planners, event specialists, photographers, photo booth owners, and more. Learn how we can personalize your party at StudioStyle.com or give us a call at (800) 346-3063.

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How to Frame Photo Booth Pictures: 4 Simple Ideas

How to Frame Photo Booth Pictures: 4 Simple Ideas

Published June 12, 2023

The photo booth is often the life of the party. There’s just something about a photo booth: people relax and you capture more candid photos. But how do you frame photo booth prints?

Really, the options are nearly limitless, with professional-style print framing to DIY creations. Here, we have five budget-friendly framing ideas for photo booth prints from parties, celebrations, and events.

1. Plain paper frame for photo booth pictures

Sometimes, the best photo booth picture frame is the simplest. So why not go with a simple paper frame? Display on your desk, hang on the wall (with a thumb tack or picture hanging strips), or show it off on your fridge with some magnets.

But why put your photo booth print in a frame rather than just on its own? Simple: if left out, the print will eventually curl. And we don’t want that! A simple frame—even a lightweight paper frame—will help preserve your print.

A few more reasons a paper frame is perfect for framing photo booth pictures:

Budget-friendly giveaway. Great as a party favor (buy in bulk) or buy just one for yourself.
Blank frames for DIY event activity. For kids and adults alike! Decorate with stickers, markers, gel pens, stamps, or—if you’re brave—glitter.

White and black horizontal blank paper frames with subtle textured finish

2. Blank photo folders for 4×6 photo booth prints

These are perfect if you have a photo booth template with colorful graphics, either to match the theme, the décor, or the branding. With a blank photo booth folder, the cover folds over to protect the print inside the picture frame.

Photo folders are great photo booth party favors because:

The cover is designed to protect the print from fingerprints and drink spills
The photo folder is lightweight but sturdy enough to keep your print from getting creased

Here’s how photo folders work:

3. Custom photo folder with event branding or theme

Really want to go all-out? Then do it! Add your logo, branding, wedding monogram, your event message. Design it to match the event theme. It’s your event, your theme; run wild with it!

We offer foil stamped and printed photo folders and frames. The most popular photo folder for photo booth prints are printed. It’s a fast option for inserting prints into the folder or frame at the party.

2 by 6 photo booth picture strip folders for a wedding favor are displayed in a box. — 2″ x 6″ photo booth folders with the couple’s names, all lined up for handing out after guests have their pictures taken. Photo courtesy of W Event Group.

Two Chirstmas-themed photo booth picture strip folders, each with event branding printed on the front covers. — Christmas photo booth folders with event logos and branding printed on the front covers.

Black and blue double-window photo folder holds images of smiling people. — Many event planners opt for completely custom photo folders with their brand design if one of our themed designs doesn’t fit their look.

Shown above: 2″ x 6″ Photo Booth Folders and Custom Printed Photo Folders

4. Upscale mat board photo booth frames

This is a nice gift option for event hosts, the married couple, guests of honor, or maybe everyone! Custom mat board frames for photo booth prints are an upscale gift option. If you make 4″ x 6″ prints, we have some picture frame mats to accommodate.

If you make 2″ x 6″ prints, you’ll need a custom picture frame mat—but the end result will wow. Interested? Let’s talk custom picture mats.

Shown: Custom picture frame mat in black with metallic gold foil imprint.

Let’s talk photo booth picture frames.

Hi there! We’re the party people at Studio Style, and we work with event planners, party people, and photo booth companies just like you. We think every event should have a photo booth at any event—including brand activations, for pictures with Santa, or any event, really!

If you need help deciding what photo folder or frame to pick for your event, let’s talk. Send us your ideas or give us a call at (800) 346-3063.

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5 Reasons You Need a Photo Booth at Your Brand Activation

Published July 23, 2021

First things first: what is a brand activation?

More than just a party, but not a permanent experience, a brand activation is an immersive, interactive experience for consumers to get to know your brand, product, services, or mission. It’s often used for new product launch, rebranding, or to re-engage consumers with your brand.

Sometimes, brand activations are just a one-night party, kind of like a launch party. Other times, it’s a temporary install either at your place of business or somewhere related. And sometimes it’s a cross-country experience.

And a brand activation experience takes more than a party planner to pull this off. You need brand experts, designers (graphic design, interior design, architectural design, you name it). You need a marketing team to advertise the experience and keep it going while it remains open.

And you need someone to record the experience, to help you remember it. That’s where a photo booth comes into play.

1. What’s an event without the pictures?

You spent all the time and money on your event or install, you don’t want people to just forget about it, do you?

It’s that whole “proof or it didn’t happen” idea. Whether you go for a digital booth, virtual booth, or hand out printed photos so event guests can show them off at home or work, photos keep those memories alive.

The pros of a digital photo booth: Guests can instantly share their photo booth pictures to social media. Add a custom hashtag for the activation, and you have some good, lasting brand memory on social media. Also, no printed picture means nothing for guests to have to hold onto at your event; they can print it on their own time.

The pros of a photo booth with printed pictures: Guests get a printed photo from the photo booth to display at home, work, school, wherever. The print will last, and won’t get lost on their phone. But what about social media sharing? you may ask. Create selfie stations, tell them to tag your brand and use a hashtag. While a photo booth can help guests share your brand on social media, they’ll often share it own their own.

2. It’s not just for taking pictures. The photo booth is an experience at your activation.

There’s something about a photo booth where people just let loose and go wild. Throw their inhibitions to the wind (within reason!). Whether you offer custom props, use a branded backdrop, or build a custom photo booth set just for your brand activation, the possibilities are endless—and there are lots of photo booth owners who love working with creative clients who think outside the box.

Think more than just taking a picture. Make the photo booth part of the experience.

Create the custom props. Make a background that makes them says “WOW.” Design a photo set that creates an unforgettable scene.

Glam photo booth setup with gold ribbon backdrop and a group of women wearing sparkling and velvet dresses and a man wearing a floral jacket.

3. Many photo booth companies offer installs or virtual options

This is the perfect option is you want a photo booth with digital images. The photo booth company will install their photo booth at your location and leave it. If you choose to go this route, be sure to ask the photo booth owner about regular service checks and to make sure their booth is insured for this use.

Don’t want a physical booth at your event? That’s where a virtual photo booth comes into play. A virtual photo booth lets users take their own photo and add a “virtual” frame on their image. These images are really easy for event guests to share on social media. As a bonus, those images they share will have your activation branding on it, giving your brand that extra boost.

4. That photo booth picture is an easy event giveaway

If you’re already adding the photo booth to the event, may as well make the output part of the party package.

Offer printed photos as part of the swag for your activation. Photo booth companies offer templates for their 2×6, 4×6, or 5×7 prints—and often you can design your own branded frame for the print.

Another swag idea is to package the print in photo folders or paper picture frames. It’s an inexpensive addition to your event, but helps create a longer-lasting experience because of the branding potential of these photo booth giveaways.

5. Doesn’t need to take up much space.

You might have such a big install or such little space in general that you think a photo booth won’t fit. Not true!

While you can create an experience with the photo booth, you don’t have to. Many photo booths just need about 2 square feet for the camera (really!) plus space for enthusiastic guests to have their photo taken. Plan for an 8′ x 8′ space.

But there is another option… the handheld roaming photo booth! This requires someone to walk around with the camera (typically an iPad) and take pictures of guests. This option takes up the least amount of space, and as an added bonus, you get to interact with the photo booth attendant (they’re the one who takes the pictures). Roaming photo booths typically offer digital images only.

So are you getting a photo booth for your brand activation?

What activities or events you have at a brand activation? The sky’s the limit. Dream big, or crush it with something smaller but more memorable.

But having a photo booth helps guests capture their memories. It’s a worthwhile investment that will help keep people talking about your brand.

Need to package your photo booth prints? We create custom-branded photo folders and paper frames. Easy for anyone to use, and it gives your branding an added boost.

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5 Reasons You Need a Photo Booth for your Pictures With Santa

Santa in a photo booth with happy people

5 Reasons You Need a Photo Booth for your Pictures With Santa

Published August 19, 2019

Pictures with Santa are so. much. FUN!

But pictures with Santa have changed. Remember the scene in “A Christmas Story” when Ralph and little brother Randy went to a department store to an elaborate setup with Santa up top and a biiiiiig slide for kids to go down? When’s the last time you saw a setup like that?

While getting your picture taken with Santa might not be as big of an ordeal as it used to be, it’s still very much a thing. But how you have those pictures taken has changed. Santa (and his helpers) don’t wait for you to come find them; nowadays, you’ll find Santa at just about any Christmas event planned during the holiday season.

While you can do a DIY set up to take your own photos with Santa, we have an idea that will give your party guests some fun, memorable prints: hire a photo booth.

Don’t think a photo booth is worth the rental cost? Read on to see why photo booths are such a great idea for getting your picture taken with Santa.

1. Photo booths have been around for a long time… people know how to have fun in them!

Even if the setup a photographer uses is similar to what a photo booth setup looks like, if you call it a photo booth, peoples’ inhibitions seem to dwindle a bit. Throw in some props and you have instant fun! How much fun would your party guests have if the guests and Santa used props in their photo booth pictures?

So if you want some fun, relaxed, candid photos with Santa at your company Christmas party or holiday event, consider a photo booth.

A collage of three photos of people having their pictures taken with Santa. — Photo booths often offer a more casual environment than studio portrait setups. Smile how you want, pose how you want, and shoot, give Santa a smooch if you want! Photos by Say Ya! Photo Booth. Visit them on Instagram or Facebook.

2. You can choose a backdrop to match your event décor.

Most photo booth companies have many different backdrop offerings. Some even offer custom designed photo booth backdrops!

But you don’t have to feel limited to just a solid screen. If space, time, and lighting allows, most photo booth companies will let you design your own backdrop—even if that includes Santa’s sleigh! So go on, think big.

A festive holiday scene set-up with a gingerbread village backdrop with small evergreens and Santa's sleigh in the foreground. — The sky’s the limit when it comes to your Santa photo booth setup. Add the sleigh, trees, and a backdrop. Photo by Say Ya! Photo Booth. Visit them on Instagram or Facebook.

A decorated Christmas tree stands in front of a simple background of black and red curtains for a photo booth setup. — For this event, they put a beautifully decorated Christmas tree against a simple red curtain backdrop as vivid as Jolly Old St. Nick’s suit. The sparkling garland and classic white lights add festive holiday flair. Photo by PicBox Photo Booth Company. Visit them on Facebook.

3. You can get printed AND social sharing options.

When it comes to having pictures taken with Santa, most people want the print, and that’s it. And that is perfectly ok!

But what if you want to create an online experience to further the message of your event or brand? That’s where photo booths with social media sharing capabilities come into play.

These photo booths with digital downloads or social sharing options let you share your pictures direct to your social media channel of choice. Shoot, some even offer gifs! The possibilities here are nearly endless. If you choose a photo booth with social media sharing, be sure to have guests tag your company, event, or use a special hashtag so you can follow the experience online.

Be sure to ask around, though, as not all photo booth companies offer the social sharing option.

4. Easier for kids

Let’s face it, some kids get freaked out at the idea of sitting on Santa’s lap. Even if they recognize him as Santa, he’s still a stranger up close.

When it comes to Christmas party photo booths with Santa, you have a few options for getting pictures with the kids.

First, you can take the traditional route of the kid on Santa’s lap or standing next to him. For a lot of kids, this works great. Others… not so much.

In order to keep all the kids (and their parents!) happy, consider creating a photo booth setup for the whole family to enjoy. Wary kids will be more open to participating if mom and dad or their friends are all in the picture with them.

A large group of people wear silly glasses and other props while having their picture taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus. — Santa and Mrs. Claus posed with the kids (and their silly glasses!) on a comfy couch with the rest of the family behind them. Photo booths can allow for large setups, meaning the whole family can have their picture taken with Santa. Photo by Shutter Booth Charlotte. Visit them on Instagram and Facebook.

5. You don’t really need Santa.

Gosh, we hope that statement doesn’t put us on the naughty list. But there’s some practicality behind that statement.

If hiring Santa for your Christmas event isn’t in your budget, you still have some great options with photo booths to make it look as though Jolly Old St. Nick was there.

Santa Replacement #1: Backdrops

Back to the topic of backdrops… some photo booths might have a backdrop with Santa on it. So you just pose in front of a picture of Santa and call it a day!

Other photo booth rentals might offer green screens, so you can choose from their library of backgrounds, or perhaps even design your own.

Santa Replacement #2: Props

Every photo booth has props. And most Christmas party photo booth rentals offer Christmas-themed props as part of their package. So while Santa might not be there, maybe you can wear his hat.

Six people pose in a photo booth in front of a bright, sparkling silver backdrop. They are all wearing funny holiday photo booth props and smiling or making silly faces. — No Santa? No problem! We think these props work *great*. Photo by Shutter Booth Charlotte. Visit them on Instagram and Facebook.

If the photo booth doesn’t offer Christmas-themed props, ask them if it’s ok to bring your own. If you go the DIY-route, check out any arts and crafts store or yes, even Target or Walmart.

Santa Replacement #3: Custom Photo Booth Print Design

If you opt for printed photos at your holiday party photo booth, ask the photo booth owner if they offer designs on their prints. Many photo booth companies offer designed prints in their packages. Here’s a bonus: some of them even let you add branding! As always, ask these questions to get the most out of your event budget.

How to find a photo booth for your Christmas party

Need help finding a photo booth near you for your holiday event? Here are three easy ways to find a photo booth near you:

Go to your search engine (ex: Google or Bing) and type in “photo booth near me”. The results will populate with local photo booth businesses for you to research.
Go to Facebook and search for “[your city] photo booth”. Below the search bar, scroll sideways to look for “Pages” and you’ll find a list of pages for photo booth companies.
Go to Instagram, tap the search icon and type in either “photo booth”. Scroll sideways below the search bar and tap on “Places”. Not all of these will be local to you, but many will. Another way to search on Instagram is to search for the name of your city, scroll to “Places,” and tap on the name of your city. This will give you a searchable map. If your local photo booth owners have added their business location, they will appear on this map.

If you’re taking photo booth pictures with Santa, send those prints home in a festive photo folder

At Studio Style, we design and manufacture a full line of photo folders and cardboard frames—and yes, we have LOTS of Christmas designs. Just choose one to go with your event, or design your own. Not sure where to start? We can help! Send us a message or call us at (800) 346-3063.

Happy party planning! 🎄🎅🎁

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How to choose photo booth picture frames for your photo booth prints

How to choose the best photo booth picture frames

How to choose photo booth picture frames for your photo booth prints

Published February 14, 2019

Photo booths had one heck of a ride in the early- to mid-20th century. Toward the later half of the century, they fell out of popularity, being relegated to dusty mall corners.

But the wedding and event planning business brought the booth back—and they brought it back BIG.

Those little photo booth picture strips the machine used to spit out? Photo booth owners still print those, but you can get photo booth pictures printed in so many more sizes: 4″ x 6″, 5″ x 7″, 2″ x 8″, and even 6″ x 20″!

The photo booth business is big, it’s bright, and it has a lot of options for brides, party planners, brand coordinators, and celebration enthusiasts.

Finding a booth is fun, choosing the props is fun, but there’s one thing that some event planners don’t always think about: how your guests are going to get those treasured photo booth pics home with them.

Sure, they could shove them in their purse or pocket, but that could leave the prints wrinkled, torn, or worse, lost.

Good news, we have some fun, affordable solutions for you.

We’re Studio Style, and we make paper photo folders and cardboard picture frames for event and studio photos. And we specialize in serving the photo booth market.

Why?

Because, while scrapbooks for photo booths are nice for the bride and groom or party honoree, they do nothing to help your guests get their pictures home.

So we stepped in to provide a practical solution for party planners. Let’s look at some photo booth picture frame options we’ve designed for party planners and photo booth owners.

Photo booth frame option #1: Paper photo folders

Have you heard of photo folders? In case you haven’t, all a photo folder is, is a paper picture frame with a flap that closes over it. Think of it like a picture frame inside a pocket folder. Photo folders are made out of sturdy paper (they’re sometimes referred to as “cardboard photo folders”).

The pros of paper photo folders

The cover protects the photo inside. No cake smudges. No fingerprints. No wrinkling, tearing, or creasing.
Lots of folder size options:
- 2″ x 6″
- 4″ x 5″
- 4″ x 6″
- 5″ x 7″
- 6″ x 8″
- 8″ x 10″
- 8-½” x 11″
- 10″ x 13″
- 11″ x 14″
- 6″ x 14″ / 6″ x 20″
Paper photo folders can be printed or foil stamped for even more branding possibilities.

Long story short: a photo folder is the safest way to get photo booth prints home undamaged.

The cons of paper photo folders

Because they have a cover, they aren’t designed to be displayed like a standard photo frame.

To be honest, one con is all we can think of for photo folders vs. photo frames.

One more thing about photo event folders:

Printing has come a long way, and we can easily cut out any window size you need. Want a photo folder for your square photo booth prints? We can do that. 2″ x 8″? 3″ x 7″? We’ve got you covered. Go on, dream big.

Three 2 by 6 photo booth folders printed with event details — Getting the classic 2″ x 6″ picture strips? Yes, we have paper picture folders for those, too!

Photo booth frame option #2: Paper picture frames

When you think of photo frames, we’re going to assume you usually think of the type of frame that can stand up on its own or be hung on a wall. Though photo booth prints aren’t the same as senior pictures or wedding photos, they still deserve a place of honor on your desk or end table.

So option #2 for your photo booth pictures is stand-up paper photo frames.

The pros of paper picture frames

They have easels that allow for horizontal or vertical display on a desk or table.
Paper is easy to personalize! Add your event details or branding with full-color printing or foil stamping.
Lots of sizes!
- 4″ x 4″
- 5″ x 5″
- 6″ x 6″
- 4″ x 6″
- 5″ x 7″
- 8″ x 10″
- 8-½” x 11″

The cons of paper picture frames

With paper photo booth print frames, there is no protective surface over the photo, so guests will still have to take care in transporting them home.
Paper frames from Studio Style don’t come with wall hanging tabs. However, since these frames are made out of lightweight paper, you can easily use a pushpin, some decorative tape, or magnets to hang your photos on the wall, the fridge, or even in your locker.

So what kind of paper frames can you get for photo booth pictures?

Studio Style has a few different options for paper photo frames:

14pt white cardstock
- Can be printed in full color
- Paper is as sturdy as a greeting card
- We can make photo booth frames for square prints (4×4, 5×5, and 6×6), as well as 4×6 and 5×7 picture sizes (oh hey, we can also make custom sizes!)

Square picture frame printed with an 80s-style space laser design — Shown: Custom-designed square print for 4″ x 4″ photo booth pictures. Contact us if you’re interested in square frames.

20pt linen-weave cardstock
- Great for foil stamping
- Has a subtle textured feel
- Available for 4×6, 5×7, 8×10, and 8-½x11

Going the DIY photo booth route? If you’re using a Fuji Instax Wide or Mini camera or a Polaroid camera, be sure to check out these Instax Mini, Instax Square, Instax Wide, and Polaroid paper picture frames.

Photo booth frame option #3: Cardboard picture frames

Cardboard picture frames are sturdier than their paper alternatives, and are often used for higher-end events where full-color branding isn’t necessary. We have both cardboard options and frames made of of layered mat board material.

The pros of cardboard picture frames:

It has a higher-end appearance.
Very sturdy—stands up easily on any surface.
Pop-out easel for desk display PLUS tabs for hanging on a wall.
Cardboard frames for photo booth prints have foil stamped personalization for a classic touch.

The cons of cardboard picture frames:

Cardboard frames cost more per piece than their thinner alternatives (paper frames).
No printing options for cardboard or mat board frames (foil stamped only).

Shown: Sturdy mat board (cardboard) photo frames with gold foil imprinted logos.

So why choose paper picture frames over acrylic photo booth frames?

The most popular alternative to paper picture frames are acrylic frames or plastic frames.

Here are three good reasons why paper is better than acrylic:

1. Paper is more eco-friendly to make and dispose of. There is a lot of discussion around paper vs. plastic (acrylic is plastic). The general consensus is that paper is generally more eco-friendly than plastic because it takes fewer resources to make, and is made from a renewable resource. A lot of it depends on where you source the paper from (we source our paper from mills that use sustainable forestry methods).

Now, the discussion on whether recycled paper or non-recycled paper is better is a whole other topic. Whichever side of that fence you’re on, we have also have a large selection of photo folders and picture frames made from recycled paper.

Lastly, if event guests decide to take their pictures out of the paper frames or folders, they can simply place their photo holders in the recycle bin.

2. Paper is so easy to personalize! There are so many options for adding your logo, monogram, or school mascot to paper picture frames. Want it printed in full color? That’s easy. Foil stamped? That’s classy… and easy.

3. Our paper photo booth picture frames are all USA-made. Since we make our photo event folders and frames (we make them in beautiful St. Charles, IL), we have complete control over the quality of the product. We can also get personalized frames to you PDQ.

Need help choosing the best photo booth frame for your pictures?

We’re more than happy to help! You can call us at (800) 346-3063 or send us an email. Or you can dive right in and see what Studio Style can do for you. Find a photo folder or frame by picture size.

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Grow Your Photo Booth Business with Studio Style Photo Folders + Frames

Grow Your Photo Booth Business with Studio Style Photo Folders + Frames

Published March 15, 2017

At Studio Style, we’re a team of designers, marketers, and printers who manufacture custom photo folders and frames for all kinds of special events. We’re here to help photo booth owners, DJs and event planners increase their revenue with a unique add-on for their photo booth rental packages.

We want to help you get more customers and grow your presence in the marketplace. You spend all night taking memorable photos, keeping the energy up and the props organized, making sure the bride and groom are happy and their guests entertained.

What better way to send guests home than with a memorable photo souvenir?

Instead of just handing each guest a photo strip, give them something nice to take home. We’ll help you design personalized photo folders for each event with your logo and company info on the back, in addition to a special greeting from the bride and groom, or a message from the corporate sponsor or host of the event.

Here are some of the highlights from our interview with DJNTV.

Ways to Use Custom Photo Folders

Tell your story. Include a client’s corporate logo on the folders and highlight your mission + brand identity
Order a custom branded folder to show your clients the possibilities. Include photos of your booth setup and a brief list of your offerings. This makes a good promotional giveaway at event trade shows and bridal fairs.
Thank a photo sponsor who covered the cost of the booth rental services. Include their logo on the folders for extra recognition at a fundraiser or corporate event.
Custom photo holders can serve as a business card given to all guests at the event (be sure to add your photo booth logo and website on the back!)
Great referral tool in lieu of handing out business cards or using a traditional digital template with a logo overlay on the print.
An inexpensive party favor to give guests to thank them for being a part of the journey (for a wedding or corporate event)
An economical up-sell to a booth rental. Charge the customer retail pricing for adding custom folders to their package – grow your bottom line!
Put your website and social media icons on the folder. drive them to your online platforms to get in touch and learn more about your services.
Ask for happy customers to leave a testimonial or review to help build trust and credibility online for your brand.
Network with other vendors and the venues themselves. Send a photo folder with a picture from the event to the venue manager thanking them for having you there.
Use branded folders as thank you card to clients. Send one out after each wedding, party, or event with a photo. Handwrite a short note inside with what you enjoyed most about being part of their special event. Great for a personal touch that goes a long way!

Why Work with Studio Style?

We enjoy working with our customers to come up with a memorable custom design that fits their needs, whether it’s designing a marketing piece for a bridal fair or a special themed piece for their client’s event.
We have an in-house art department: free design consult prior to ordering.
We’ll happily show you a proof of a layout if you need to spec it to one of your clients
We’ll send you free samples to show your clients – best way to upsell them is to have some physical samples on hand to demonstrate.
If you call us at (800) 346-3063 or chat with us on our website, you’ll talk to a real human!
Easy process: personalize and order custom photo folders from our website: StudioStyle.com (or place your order over the phone!)
7-10 day turnaround for production of custom folders and delivery to your location
Quick-ship stock folders available for last-minute events (no personalization)
Made in the USA from high-quality 14 pt. card stock
We are the manufacturer. We make the photo folders and know how to use them – so we can brainstorm ideas for design and construction of custom pieces.
Low order minimums
Online product images and sell sheets and digital mockups to help you sell

Photo Folder Features + Benefits

Preserve the prints: turn photos from the event into photo souvenirs
100 square inches of design and customization space on our 4×6 folders. Compare that to your traditional 4×6 or 2×6 digital template.
Ensure each print is safe and not left behind on the floor or table, or used as a coaster. Guests will take your custom branded event photo folders home.
Custom photo folders provide a safe place to store the pictures while guests enjoy the event.

Studio Style Customer Testimonials

Dennis Marentette, Owner at DDM Photo Booth and a 30+ year veteran of the photography and videography industry says:

“These Photo Folders are one of my most effective marketing products that I use. I will speak about it at the Photo Booth Expo this year. Studio Style is the best in the business. We booked this event with Northstar Aerospace as a result of their General Manager being at a wedding back in September, where I gave out your photo folders. I have booked 2 events from handing the custom photo folder samples from Studio Style out to guests. I could go on and on– the bookings are in the thousands of dollars from using your material!”

Howard, Owner at Step it Up Events says,

“We use an assortment of 4X6 & 8X10 frames and photo folders from Studio Style. We love the excellent quality, and the amazing pricing. Using the custom photo folders and photos frames has helped our business by allowing us to offer upgrades that other vendors do not feature in their packages. It has made us look extremely polished. Plus, the customer service team is second to none! Kevin helps me brainstorm ideas on how to incorporate and market different Studio Style products into my event services all of the time.”

We hope you enjoy these tips and ideas to increase your profits in your photo booth business! Have more ways to grow your bottom line? We’d love to hear them. Please leave a comment below, or share with us on the Studio Style Facebook page.

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Event Planning: 10 Reasons to Have a Photo Booth

Event Planning: 10 Reasons to Have a Photo Booth

Published July 5, 2016

Having a photo booth set up at your venue brings a fun, interactive experience to any event, party, or celebration. From weddings and birthday parties to corporate events and festivals, photo booths entertain, capture memories, and provide brand engagement opportunities.

At the 2016 WPPI Expo in Las Vegas, Studio Style had a chance to meet up with Ted Llamas, owner of Emoji Photo Box. His business is the Premier Photo Booth Rental Company and serves Las Vegas and Southern California. Ted shared his insights into the events industry, what it’s like to be a photo booth owner, and why photo booths are an essential part of every successful event. “I can’t imagine a big event without a photo booth. There is so much value to having one,” says Ted.

Top 10 Reasons to Have a Photo Booth at Your Event:

Entertainment value.

The novelty of a photo booth is something guests won’t soon forget, and their reactions will prove it. Ted loves hearing his customers remark, “You guys are awesome!” and “Your photo booth is so much fun!” But what really puts a smile on his face was when a party-goer says, “Man, thank God you were here. You really made the party!”

Break the Ice

A photo booth gives guests a chance to let loose, have a ton of fun and be themselves. It’s a great icebreaker activity for guests who may not know one another, and it allows for easy mingling and networking at business events.

Instant Party Favors!

Everyone gets to take home at least one (in most cases, many) personalized party favors. If you’re on a budget, skip traditional party favors and let the photos serve as a keepsake. Plus, Studio Style can create custom photo folders to protect your printed event pictures! Send guests home with an elegant photo souvenir that matches your event’s theme. No need to wait for the photographer to edit the images from the event! With on-site printing, your guests can have hard copies for themselves within seconds.

Colorful photo booth print with three pictures of kids having fun in the booth. The print is designed to look like The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Fun for All Ages

Young or old, anyone can enjoy a photo booth. The fun themed events are always the birthday parties, according to Ted. “We’ve had a lot of great themes, but one that stands out was a little girl’s 3^rd birthday party with The Very Hungry Caterpillar theme. We were able to make the ‘standby’ screen look just like the book, include the hungry caterpillar in the layout and have some props to go along with the theme. The little girl’s face was priceless – and to hear her saying, “cat-piller” every time a photo printed out, was just precious.

Raise Awareness

One of the most memorable events Ted has serviced was A Walk for Baby Lukey. The event was a 5K walk/run to raise awareness for Dandy Walker Syndrome. “A good friend of my cousin lost their infant son, Lucas to DWS. Although the loss of their child was devastating, they planned a wonderful memorial event for their son to raise awareness. The photo booth was placed near the finish line and everyone stopped by to take their silly pictures. It was a nice touch that played well with their theme of having fun and keeping it light hearted.”

Quick Prints for Everyone

“I think printing on-site is the standard and has always been. That is the staple of the photo booth,” says Ted. “People who know what a photo booth is will expect a printout, and those who aren’t familiar are blown away when they get a print in 10-12 seconds!” You don’t have to wait for a professional photographer to touch up and edit the images before sharing them with guests. Guests can grab them and go, and you’ll often be able to access your images online as well.

“I’m a big advocate for reprints for when a group of 4 or more enter the booth. I reprint enough copies for that group, which keeps everyone happy. I have been to a couple of weddings where I’ve taken a big group shot with family members I rarely ever see, and the photo booth operator only allowed two strips for our group of 8. As a photo booth owner, I was sad to see this happen.”

Online + Social Media Sharing

This area has grown over the last few years and it’s only going to get better. The software available today allows photo booth goers to upload their pictures to Facebook or email themselves right on the booth’s touchscreen, or on a separate iPad kiosk.

There are even a couple of software companies that have designed a way to create a whole subcategory of photo booths, with a “Hashtag Printer Station.” This is a separate unit comprised of a tablet, software, and a printer enclosed in a nice-looking box. It allows attendees to print out their own pictures from the event that they’ve already uploaded on Instagram using the specific hashtag of the host (bride/groom, company, etc) wants them to use.

Now, the print isn’t your normal 4×6 photo you pick up at Walgreens. This is a 4×6 (vertical) that looks exactly like your Instagram page, with your name, date, and even has the comments you made. You can customize this by adding the (bride/groom info/company info, etc) and your own information like a web address.

Customization

There are lots of ways to customize a photo booth experience for any type of event. You can customize the booth with themed backdrops and green screens to custom props and background templates. “For the event planners looking for a photo booth, all photo booths are not created equal. Cheaper isn’t always better. Do some research to find a company that can fulfill your needs. There are a lot of great photo booth rental companies out there, Emoji Photo Box is just one of them,” says Ted.

Survey Your Guests

Most photo booth software can be customized to include a quick pop-up survey for attendees to complete before their session can start. The questionnaire can ask the guests whatever the host or business wants to know, and shows up right on the photo booth screen. It’s a great way to capture leads or gather important business data from current and potential customers.

Increase Brand Engagement

Photo booths work well for business events when a company or organization is trying to grow their social media presence. Host an event and encourage everyone to take pictures and upload them to Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram using a specific hashtag. When consumers have fun and get engaged with a brand’s photo booth, they also leave with a cool souvenir that has the company’s brand all over it.

For businesses, it’s a no-brainer to have a photo booth. Not only does it get your guests, employees, and customers to interact during the event, but it also builds your brand exponentially. Ask your guests to tag themselves in the photos on your company Facebook page, or even hashtag your company’s brand and event info on Instagram!

More about Ted and Emoji Photo Box:

How did you get started in the photo booth industry? What do you love most about it?

I always knew I wanted to own my own business, but never really pinned down what I wanted to do. One day I was at a CVS waiting for my infant son’s medication and was flipping through a small business magazine. It was there that I found an ad for owning a photo booth.

After doing this for 4 years, I still love how the photo booth adds life to the party! Seeing people rush to the photo booth, seeing all kinds of funny faces and introducing the photo booth to those who have never experienced it (there are always some first timers at every event) makes me smile.

Tell us about Emoji Photo Box – what sets you apart from other photo booth rentals?

At Emoji Photo Box, we work as a team to cover all of the business aspects that come with owning a photo booth. Many companies lack in one area or another. I truly believe we that we prosper in customer service, communication, social media and staying up to date on new technologies.

Any sage advice for prospective booth owners to grow and market their business?

Social media is a must, but high tech doesn’t beat high touch. Get your booth (and your personality) out there. Do a free event. All events you service with your booth can create an opportunity to get you booked on another paid event.

Anything else you’d like to say about photo booths and their impact on the events industry?

Photo booths aren’t going anywhere. They are just as much a business branding tool as they are a form of entertainment for your guests.

There are a whole lot of photo booth owners out there and that number keeps growing. I believe this is one of the best small businesses one could own. I believe it so much, that I sell photo booths to people who are just getting started, or to photo booth owners looking for another booth to add to their fleet.

Even with the growing number of photo booth owners, I still believe that there are enough events for everyone.

We hope these tips help you plan your next event!

Do you have another reason photo booths create fun at any event (like brand activations)? Leave us a comment below! If you need photo booth folders to hold your event photos, we’d love to create them. Browse our custom photo folders or give us a call at (800) 346-3063.

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How to Add Vintage Flair to Your Event Photo Booth

How to Add Vintage Flair to Your Event Photo Booth

Published August 25, 2015

How to Add Vintage Flair to your Photo Booth

Ah, the photo booth.

Invented in the early twentieth century by an ambitious Russian immigrant, the photo booth quickly won over the American public with it’s quick printing capabilities and intimate booth atmosphere.

Enclosed photo booths started appearing in cities across the U.S. wherever crowds gathered. They grew in popularity over the next several decades, and saw such famous visitors as Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and Truman Capote.

But in the later decades of the 20th century, Americans’ fascination with the photo booth declined. The once-popular photo booths were relegated to dusty corners at malls and shopping centers.

But all that changed about 10 years ago.

As the saying goes, “what’s old is new again,” and this couldn’t be more true for the humble event photo booth. Now they are at weddings, bar mitzvahs, corporate events, retail grand openings, first birthday parties, and graduation parties. Photographers across the U.S. are adding them as a package option for their event photography, and DIY photo booth tutorials abound.

But the fun part for you, the party planner, is all the glamorous details, and what’s more fun than a vintage 1920s photo booth theme? Whether you’re throwing a gala reminiscent of The Great Gatsby, hosting a small art deco-inspired soirée, or just want a 1920s-themed photo booth, we’ve searched high and low to bring you some of the best 1920s vintage photo booth ideas and inspiration.

Vintage Photo Booth Backdrop Ideas

Strips of wrapping paper. Sound silly? It’s not! Put one strip black, another of a subtle black and gold geometric pattern. Just be careful not to clash patterns or create something too loud.
Black table cloth. This is perhaps the easiest and thriftiest option, which is why it’s usually the most popular. A simple black table cloth from your local party supply store is a simple but great background.
Streamers. Choose two or three colors, and tape streamers to the wall, keeping them all straight, twirling all of them, or keeping some straight while twirling others.
Velvet. We’re thinking a red or black velvet curtain reminiscent of the theater. While an actual theater curtain might not fit your budget, check your local fabric store, especially the bargain bins. Or, hang a simple black backdrop, and put on red velvet curtain on each side, pulled back with a gold rope tie. Where to buy: Jo-Ann
Clear balloons filled with gold glitter. Easy and fun glitter balloons! Just add a spoonful of glitter to a clear balloon, blow it up (with helium), tie on a gold ribbon, and tape the ribbon to the floor. Fill up enough balloons to cover a wide enough area, and tie on varying lengths of ribbon. You can either buy these pre-made, or make your own glitter balloons.
Patterns to look for. Whether it’s a piece of fabric, a table cloth, wrapping paper, or wallpaper, look for big, regal patterns like damask or brocade, or for true art deco style, be on the lookout for bold geometric patterns.

Prop Ideas for your 1920s-Themed Photo Booth

Hats, hats, hats. Find period-style hats for the guys and the dames. For guys, look for bowler, derby, fedora, top hat, panama, gambler, or homburg. For dames, look for cloche, beret, toque, turbans, and of course, the flapper headband. Where to buy: Candy Apple Costumes
Mustache on a stick. Make your own, find some at the party store, or download some vintage-style photo booth printables.
Bow ties for the guys. You can either find a few clip-on bow ties (skip the over-sized ones for the vintage theme), or use a printable. Where to buy: Tie Bar (feeling crafty? Learn how to make your own clip-on bow tie.)
Lace gloves for the ladies. So that you’re fit for your elegant affair. Where to buy: Historical Emporium
Lace parasol. Look at pictures of people picnicking in the 1920s and you might see some women with lacy parasols, meant to shelter the sun. While a full-size parasol won’t work to well in a confined space, a child-sized or petite parasol would be perfect.
Feather boas and playful fans. Time to hit the party store again! Think glitz and glam.
Rotary Phone. Why not? Look on eBay or ask around; you might be surprised at who has one of those sitting in their attic.
Colorful silk flowers. Not your ordinary prop, but why should the bride and bridesmaids be the only ones with bouquets?

DIY Vintage Photo Booth Signs

Pointing to the photo booth. Free photo booth sign printables abound online. Check out some at Elegance and Enchantment. Creating your own? Look up some 1920s slang to make it even more authentic.
How to use the photo booth. Avoid the risk of losing pictures, having damaged equipment, or just confusing your guests. Kelly from A Side of Sweet provided a simple list of instructions for guests at her wedding.
How to pose and use props. Yes, this might sound silly, but it could be another way to add some vintage flair. Find some old photo booth pictures (old family photos from the 1920s will work, too), put them in a gold frame, and place them on the props table.

Protect Your Prints! Personalized Photo Booth Favors

Photo Booth Strip Folders. Help your guests protect their 2″ x 6″ photo booth prints. Personalize with your event details. Where to buy: Studio Style
Photo Holder for 4″ x 6″ Photo Booth Collage. Perfect for the larger prints! Choose a vintage design, or create one of your own. Where to buy: Studio Style (Psssst… the Vintage Props is our most popular design for events like this.)
An envelope. Get envelopes to coordinate with your color or design theme. Leave them blank, add a label, or personalize with some fancy calligraphy. Find these at any stationery supply store. For 4″ x 6″ photos, look for the A6 envelope size.

DIY Photo Booth Tutorial List

If you’re one of the brave individuals looking to set up your own photo booth, check out this list of tutorials from experts and beginners alike.

Offbeat Wed. No expensive camera needed, just your computer and a web cam. The ultimate budget-friendly option.
Simple Booth. Have an iPad? Here’s a really easy one for you. Buy the app, and set your iPad up on a tri-pod.
Photography Concentrate. Photographers Lauren and Rob Lim share their photo booth setup. This one is perfect if you have a dSLR and a separate flash unit.
dslrBooth. Photo booth software (Mac or PC) for those with Nikon, Canon or Sony dSLR cameras. Also works with webcams.
Viget. For a more professional setup with dSLR, lights, and live photo slideshow, see how the staff at Viget set up their photo booth.

If You’re Hiring a Photographer…

Sometimes it’s more fun to let someone else handle the technical side of setting up a photo booth, and that’s ok! You can still choose props, backdrops, and other photo booth decor. We’ve found that photo booth owners love working their clients’ ideas into their booth to help personalize the experience, so if you are hiring a professional, ask them if you can use your own props and backdrop.

Ready, Set, Go!

Whether it’s for your wedding or your kid’s birthday party, your photo booth will bring out the goofiness in your guests, and there’s nothing like a vintage theme to really get them to open up.

Are you doing a vintage photo booth theme? Let us know what your set up looks like—we’d love to see it!

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