So, you're wondering how much a photo booth for your wedding is going to set you back? It's one of those "how long is a piece of string?" questions, but I can definitely give you the inside scoop. Generally speaking, for a standard three to four-hour hire in the UK, you're looking at a budget of somewhere between £350 and £750.
Of course, the final figure really hinges on what you're after – the style of the booth, where you are in the country, and all the fun little extras you decide to throw in, just like Justin and Hailey Bieber did with their star-studded reception.
Your Quick Guide to UK Wedding Photo Booth Costs
Let's be honest, wedding planning is one big balancing act. You want to create an incredible day for everyone without having to remortgage your house. A photo booth is one of those brilliant additions that delivers a massive dose of fun and captures all the silly, candid moments that a formal photographer might miss. It’s an instant ice-breaker, getting everyone from your great-aunt Susan to your little cousins mingling and mucking about with oversized glasses and feather boas.
Even the A-listers love a good photo booth! When you see snaps from celebrity bashes like Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz’s wedding, there's always a photo booth in the corner. It adds that touch of exclusive, behind-the-scenes fun, letting guests like Eva Longoria create their own paparazzi moments. The great news? You don't need a Beckham-sized budget to bring that same energy to your big day.
Understanding the Average Costs
Looking ahead, industry insights suggest that the average price for a four-hour photo booth hire in 2025 is likely to hover around the £400 mark. But the type of booth you choose is the real game-changer here.
A classic, enclosed booth might cost you about £100 an hour, while the more modern open-air setups often come in a little cheaper at around £80 per hour. If you want to dial up the glamour, a swanky magic mirror booth could be closer to £125 per hour. It’s worth digging into the various photo booth price points to see how these options stack up.
To make this crystal clear, here’s a quick table to give you a rough idea of what you can expect to pay for a typical four-hour package.
Average UK Wedding Photo Booth Costs at a Glance
This table breaks down the typical costs for a standard 4-hour hire, helping you see which booth style fits your budget best.
| Photo Booth Type | Average Hourly Rate | Typical 4-Hour Package Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Enclosed Photo Booth | £100 | £400 |
| Open-Air Photo Booth | £80 | £320 |
| Magic Mirror Booth | £125 | £500 |
Hopefully, that gives you a solid starting point. Remember, these are just averages, but they're a great way to align your vision with your wallet.
A photo booth isn't just entertainment; it's a memory-making machine. It captures the authentic, unscripted joy of your wedding day, giving both you and your guests a priceless keepsake.
Use this info as your guide to figure out which option will be the perfect, hilarious, memory-filled addition to your celebration.
So, What's Actually Behind the Price Tag?
Ever found yourself scrolling through photo booth quotes and scratching your head? One company throws out a price of £350, the next is asking for nearly double, and you're left wondering what on earth is going on. It’s a bit like comparing a pub lunch to a Michelin-starred meal – both are food, but the experience and the bill are worlds apart.
The truth is, the cost for a photo booth at a wedding isn't just a number plucked from thin air. It’s a cocktail of different ingredients, each one adding to the final flavour… and the final price. Let’s break down exactly what you're paying for.
The Type of Booth You Choose
First up, the main event: the booth itself. This is the single biggest factor that'll make the price swing up or down. Different booths offer completely different vibes, and their technical wizardry (or lack thereof) has a direct impact on the cost.
An enclosed booth, for example, gives you that classic, private passport-photo-gone-wild experience. It’s brilliant fun, but it often involves more kit and a longer setup time. On the other hand, you have sleek Magic Mirrors or minimalist open-air pods, the kind you might see at a Kardashian party.
This is where you'll see the biggest jump in quotes. A classic enclosed booth might land somewhere between £450 and £750 for a typical four-hour hire. A flashy Magic Mirror usually sits in the £400 to £650 range, while a chic open-air setup could be as friendly on the wallet as £320 for the same amount of time. If you want to dive deeper, you can explore these wedding photo booth cost breakdowns to see how they stack up.
How Long You Want It and When
Next on the list is a simple one: time is money. Most photo booth companies package their services in blocks of time, usually three or four hours. If your dream is to have the booth buzzing from the first welcome drink to the last song, it’s naturally going to cost more than just having it for the evening bash.
A great little tip is to ask about "idle time." Many suppliers will let you pay a much smaller fee to have the booth set up early but switched off during dinner or the ceremony. It’s a clever way to avoid disruption without paying for hours you won’t use.
And it’s not just about how many hours you book, but which hours. A Saturday in July is the wedding industry's equivalent of a primetime TV slot, and the price reflects that. Booking on a weekday or during the quieter months (hello, November!) can often lead to some very welcome savings.
Location, Location, Location
Finally, where you're tying the knot plays a part. A supplier based in the heart of London will have different running costs compared to one in a quiet corner of the countryside. Travel is a big one here. If your venue is a bit of a trek for them, expect a travel surcharge to be tacked on to cover their fuel and time on the road.
To put it all in a nutshell, here are the main things that move the needle on price:
- Booth Style: Are you after a classic enclosed booth, an open-air pod, or a premium Magic Mirror?
- Hire Length: The number of hours the booth is open for business.
- Wedding Date: A peak-season Saturday will always cost more than an off-season Tuesday.
- Venue Location: Travel fees might apply if you're outside the supplier's usual patch.
Once you get your head around these elements, those quotes suddenly start to make a lot more sense. You can see exactly what you're investing in and figure out where you want to save and where you're happy to splash out.
How to Choose Your Perfect Photo Booth Package
Let's be honest, photo booth packages aren't a one-size-fits-all deal. They run the gamut from simple, budget-friendly setups to all-out luxury experiences that would make a reality TV star like Kim Kardashian blush. Nailing down what's actually in these packages is the secret to finding the perfect fit for your wedding without accidentally blowing your budget.
Think of it like booking a flight: you've got Economy, Business, and First Class. They all get you where you're going, but the journey—and the little luxuries along the way—are worlds apart. Your job is to figure out which "class" of photo booth service matches your wedding's vibe.
Decoding Bronze, Silver, and Gold Packages
Most suppliers you'll come across will have tiered packages, usually called something like Bronze, Silver, and Gold. The names might change, but the idea is always the same. A Bronze package is your basic, no-frills option that gets the job done. Silver usually throws in a few more goodies like extra props or a guest book, while Gold is the full VIP experience with all the bells and whistles.
To help you figure out what’s right for you, this nifty little infographic breaks down the key decisions that shape the final price tag, from the type of booth you fancy to how long you want it for.
As you can see, it’s all connected. A top-of-the-line booth for a shorter time might end up costing the same as a more basic one that you keep running all night long. It's a balancing act!
A Clear Comparison of What You Get
So, what do you actually get for your money at each level? Let's lay it all out. This table gives you a side-by-side look at the features you'll typically find, making it much easier to spot where the real value is for your big day.
Typical Photo Booth Package Comparison
Here's a quick look at how the standard Bronze, Silver, and Gold packages usually stack up against each other.
| Feature | Bronze Package (Basic) | Silver Package (Standard) | Gold Package (Premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hire Duration | 2-3 hours | 3-4 hours | 4+ hours |
| Photo Prints | Limited or single prints | Unlimited prints | Unlimited prints + reprints |
| Props Selection | Standard box of props | Enhanced props collection | Custom or themed props |
| Backdrop | Standard curtain backdrop | Choice of premium backdrops | Custom backdrop or flower wall |
| Digital Copies | Online gallery access post-event | Instant digital sharing (email/SMS) + online gallery | All digital features + GIFs/Boomerangs |
| Guest Book | Not included | Included guest book service | Luxury guest book album |
| Attendant | Included | Included | Included |
As you can see, that jump from Bronze to Silver often brings in the big crowd-pleasers like unlimited prints and a guest book service—a massive value-add. Gold packages are for those couples who want a truly bespoke experience, with custom elements that tie in perfectly with their wedding theme.
Of course, a photo booth is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s always a great idea to consider other unique wedding entertainment options to create a day that everyone remembers.
The trick to choosing the right package isn’t about getting the most features; it’s about getting the right features for you and your guests. If your friends, like Taylor Swift's squad, live on Instagram, a package with instant digital sharing is an absolute must.
Ultimately, by comparing these packages, you can confidently decide whether a simple setup is all you need or if upgrading will truly take your guests' experience to the next level. If you're all about speed, fun, and getting those pictures in-hand right away, it's worth exploring the different types of instant photo booths available to find your perfect match.
So, What About All Those Optional Extras?
Right, you’ve found the perfect package, the price looks good, and you’re about to sign on the dotted line. But hang on a minute… what’s this long list of ‘optional extras’? Suddenly, you’re being tempted by everything from custom props to shimmering, sequinned backdrops. It’s easy to get a bit flustered, but this is where you can really stamp your personality all over the photo booth experience.
Think of your main package as a classic, sharp suit—it looks great, does the job perfectly, and everyone’s happy. The add-ons? They're the snazzy pocket square, the funky cufflinks, and the designer tie. They inject your unique character and elevate the whole thing to a new level. The real trick is working out which of these extras will make your event unforgettable and which you can probably do without.
Worth the Splurge or a Waste of Money?
Let's get down to it and dissect the most common extras to figure out where the real value is. Some are absolute game-changers, while others are lovely-but-not-essential if you're keeping a close eye on the budget.
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Custom Prop Boxes: Look, the standard box of oversized specs and feather boas is always a laugh. But a custom box? That's a whole other league. Imagine props themed around your favourite film, your shared hobbies, or an inside joke. It’s that personal touch your guests will be talking about for ages. Verdict: A brilliant splurge if it fits your theme perfectly.
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Premium Backdrops: A plain backdrop is perfectly fine. But a jaw-dropping flower wall or a bespoke neon sign? That doesn't just make for better photos; it transforms the booth into a stunning focal point of your reception décor. You can get a feel for the possibilities by exploring different backdrops for photo booths to see the massive visual impact they can have. Verdict: A must-have for style-focused couples.
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Guest Book Service: Honestly, this is one of the best value-for-money add-ons you can get. The booth attendant will make sure guests pop a copy of their photo strip into an album and scrawl a message next to it. You’ll walk away from your own wedding with a hilarious, heartfelt, and totally unique keepsake. Verdict: An absolute, non-negotiable must-have.
Digital Fun vs. Physical Memories
It's not just about what you can hold. The digital upgrades can seriously ramp up the entertainment. Adding features like GIF, Boomerang, or video creation turns those still photos into dynamic, shareable snippets that will be all over social media the next day. This is an absolute winner for a younger, tech-savvy crowd like you'd find at a party hosted by Zendaya.
But don't write off the charm of a physical memento. It's not just about the prints on the night. Many couples love turning their favourite booth snaps into little gifts later on. It’s easy to create personalized photo gifts online, which is a lovely idea for thank-you cards or little presents for your wedding party.
The best add-ons are the ones that scream 'you'. If you're the silly couple who's always laughing, invest in those custom props. If your wedding vibe is pure glamour, that premium backdrop is a no-brainer.
At the end of the day, thinking through these extras is how you tailor the cost for your photo booth at the wedding. By cherry-picking the add-ons that really mean something to you, you can create an amazing experience that hits that sweet spot between fun, style, and your budget.
Getting a Celebrity Vibe on a Sensible Budget
You don't need a budget fit for a royal wedding like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's to get that A-list photo booth magic for your big day. Honestly, getting that exclusive, high-end feel without the eye-watering price tag is all about being a bit savvy with your planning. A few insider tricks can dramatically lower the cost for a photo booth at your wedding.
Think of it like finding a designer dress at a high-street price; you just need to know where to look and what to ask for. The same principle applies here. With a few smart moves, you can unlock some serious savings and still treat your guests to a night they won't forget.
Smart Booking Secrets
One of the easiest ways to cut costs? Be flexible with your wedding date. A Saturday in the middle of June is prime time, and believe me, the prices will show it. But if you can swing a Friday, a Sunday, or even a weekday, you’ll often find suppliers are much more willing to offer a better quote.
The same goes for the time of year. An off-season wedding in January, February, or November can be a goldmine for deals. These months are typically quieter for wedding suppliers, so they're often keen to offer more competitive rates to fill up their diaries. It’s simple supply and demand, but this time it’s working for you!
Bundling your services is another brilliant trick. Lots of DJs, and even some venues, have their own photo booths or have tie-ins with trusted companies. Booking an all-in-one entertainment package like this can often get you a hefty discount compared to sourcing everything separately.
Negotiating Your Perfect Package
Don’t be shy about asking for what you want – and just as importantly, what you don’t want. If your crowd is all about Instagram and couldn't care less about physical print-outs, ask about a digital-only package. Ditching the unlimited prints can shave a surprising amount off the final bill.
This approach gives you total control over the bits you actually care about. If you're looking for more ideas on how to make the experience your own, our guide on the best ways to use a prop wedding photo booth is packed with inspiration.
When you're chatting with potential companies, get straight to the point and ask the questions that can uncover those hidden savings.
- Ask about "idle time": Some companies will let you pause the booth during dinner for a much lower hourly rate. It’s a genius way to avoid paying full whack for an hour when nobody is using it.
- Enquire about shorter hours: Do you really need the booth running for five hours? Or would a fantastic, high-energy three-hour slot after the speeches do the trick?
- Clarify travel fees: Are they baked into the price, or is that an extra charge lurking at the end? Sticking with a local company can often get rid of this cost completely.
Being a proactive planner who knows the right questions to ask is the secret to getting that VIP experience without the VIP price tag.
Your Wedding Photo Booth Questions Answered
Right, you’ve done the maths, weighed up the packages, and you’re so close to ticking "photo booth" off your wedding to-do list. But I bet there are a few little questions still buzzing around your head. Don't worry, that’s totally normal! Let’s get those last-minute queries sorted so you can book with complete confidence.
I’ve pulled together the most common questions that couples ask when they're finalising their photo booth plans. From booking timelines to how much floor space you actually need to give up, here are the straight answers you’ve been looking for.
How Far in Advance Should I Book a Wedding Photo Booth?
Honestly? As soon as you can. For the best pick of the bunch, you should aim to book your photo booth 9 to 12 months before your wedding. This is non-negotiable if you’re getting married on a prime summer Saturday, as the best companies get snapped up faster than a free glass of bubbly.
Booking early doesn’t just secure your dream booth; it often locks in that year's price, saving you from any sneaky price hikes. If you’re planning a cosy winter wedding or a mid-week do, you’ve got a bit more leeway, but getting it sorted at least 6 months out is still a brilliant move.
Does the Price Include an Attendant to Run the Booth?
In most cases, yes, it absolutely should. The vast majority of standard and premium packages—the kind you’d find at a glitzy wedding like George and Amal Clooney's—will include a professional attendant. Their job is to set everything up, get your guests in the mood, wrangle the guest book, and make sure the whole operation runs like a dream.
However, some of the very basic, budget-friendly options or simple "drop-off" iPad pods might not include an attendant, or they might list it as an optional add-on. It's so important to double-check this with your supplier before you sign anything. No one wants that kind of surprise on the day.
Think of the attendant as your photo booth's director. They keep the energy up, fix any tech wobbles in a flash, and make the whole thing effortless for you and your guests.
Are Props and Backdrops Included in the Hire Cost?
They certainly are! Your standard hire cost will almost always come with a treasure trove of fun props (we’re talking silly hats, giant glasses, and witty signs) and a simple, classic backdrop. You’ll usually get a choice of black, white, or maybe a shimmery sequin curtain – all of which look fantastic in photos.
Now, if you’ve got a very specific theme and need custom props, or you're picturing a lavish flower wall as your backdrop, that will almost certainly be an extra charge. My advice? Always ask to see pictures of a company's standard props and backdrops before you commit. That way, you know exactly what you’re getting for your money.
How Much Space Does a Photo Booth Need at the Venue?
This is such a great question, and your venue coordinator will love you for asking it! The space you need really comes down to which type of booth you’ve fallen for.
Here’s a rough guide to help you plan:
- Enclosed Booths: These are the neatest of the bunch and usually need a footprint of about 2.5m x 1.5m.
- Open-Air Booths: These need a bit more elbow room to get those brilliant big group shots. You'll want to clear an area of at least 3m x 3m.
- Magic Mirrors & 360 Booths: These often demand the most space to work their magic, so always confirm the specific requirements with your supplier.
The two absolute must-haves to check with both your booth company and your venue are the booth's exact dimensions and its access to a power socket. Get that sorted, and you're golden.
Ready to create an unforgettable, celebrity-worthy photo booth experience for your wedding? At Harry and Edge, we specialise in delivering high-energy, stylish photo booths that will have your guests laughing all night long. Explore our wedding photo booth options and get a bespoke quote today!