Right, let's talk numbers. How much is a photo booth actually going to set you back for your wedding here in the UK? You're looking at a range from about £350 for a simple, no-frills package right up to £800+ for the all-singing, all-dancing premium experience.
Most couples, however, find their sweet spot somewhere in the middle, typically spending around £400-£600 for a solid four-hour hire.
Your Quick Guide to Wedding Photo Booth Costs
Planning a wedding is a beautiful kind of chaos, isn't it? And somewhere between the cake tasting and the seating plan, you've got to figure out the entertainment. A photo booth is so much more than just a novelty; it's a memory-making machine that captures all the silly, candid, and downright hilarious moments your main photographer might miss.
Think of it as an interactive experience that also gives your guests a brilliant, personalised wedding favour to take home.
But before you start imagining your Nan in a feather boa and oversized sunglasses, let's get a handle on the costs. Prices can swing quite a bit depending on what you're after and where you are in the UK. A classic enclosed booth might go for about £100 per hour, while a swanky Magic Mirror could be closer to £125 per hour.
For a standard four-hour reception slot, you're realistically looking at a starting point between £400 and £500. That price usually gets you the booth, a fun box of props, and an attendant to make sure everything runs smoothly.
A First Look at the Prices
To give you a clearer picture of what your money gets you, I've put together a quick table. This breaks down the typical costs for a standard 4-hour hire, showing how the different types of booths stack up against each other.
Estimated UK Wedding Photo Booth Costs for a 4-Hour Hire
| Booth Type | Typical Hourly Rate | Estimated 4-Hour Cost | Commonly Included Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open-Air Booth | £90 – £120 | £360 – £480 | Digital-only photos, backdrop, basic props, online gallery. |
| Enclosed Booth | £100 – £130 | £400 – £520 | Instant prints, props, attendant, guest book option. |
| Magic Mirror | £125 – £160 | £500 – £640 | Interactive touchscreen, animations, instant prints, premium props. |
| 360 Video Booth | £175 – £250+ | £700 – £1,000+ | Slow-motion video clips, social sharing station, attendant, special effects. |
As you can see, the price can climb pretty quickly depending on the tech and features involved. But it gives you a solid baseline for what to expect when you start getting quotes.
The type of booth you choose is the single biggest factor affecting the final price. A simple open-air setup will be far more budget-friendly than an elaborate 360-degree video booth, but both deliver fantastic entertainment value.
While we're on the subject of capturing your big day, it helps to see the full picture. Getting a sense of how much wedding photography typically costs will help you build a complete budget for all your visual memories.
What Really Drives Photo Booth Prices?
Ever looked at two photo booth quotes and wondered why one is perfectly reasonable and the other seems priced for a royal wedding? Let me assure you, the price isn't just a number plucked out of thin air. It’s a carefully mixed cocktail of different ingredients, and each one adds a little something to the final figure on your invoice.
Getting your head around these key drivers is like being handed the secret menu at your favourite restaurant; you suddenly know exactly what’s on offer and why one dish costs more than another. It's a bit like booking a holiday, isn't it? A long weekend in Blackpool will have a very different price tag than two weeks in Barbados, even though they're both technically beach holidays. It all comes down to the specifics.
This handy infographic breaks down the main components that make up the cost of a wedding photo booth.
As you can see, the big three are the type of booth you choose, how long you want it for, and any fancy extras you decide to throw in. These three pillars pretty much hold up the entire pricing structure.
The Type of Booth You Choose
First things first, the style and tech inside the booth itself is the single biggest factor affecting the price. An open-air booth with a high-quality DSLR camera is the classic choice and often the most budget-friendly. It’s the reliable workhorse of the wedding world – it does a brilliant job and always delivers the fun.
Then you start stepping into the more glamorous options. A Magic Mirror booth, for example, brings a bit of theatre to the party with its interactive touchscreen and cheeky animations. Guests absolutely love it, but naturally, that extra pizzazz comes at a higher price.
The biggest price jump you'll see is usually for the 360-degree video booths. These are the showstoppers you see at celebrity bashes hosted by the likes of the Kardashians. Instead of static prints, they create incredible, slow-motion videos. They need more space, more specialised gear, and often a bigger team to run them, all of which is reflected in their premium cost.
Hire Duration and Custom Extras
The next big piece of the puzzle is dead simple: time. How long do you want the fun to last? Most companies offer packages based on a 3 or 4-hour hire, which usually fits perfectly within a wedding reception schedule. If you want the booth running from the canapés right through to the last dance, the cost will obviously go up.
Finally, we get to the bespoke touches – this is where you can really save or splurge. These are the little details that make the booth experience uniquely yours.
- Custom Backdrops: Not feeling the standard sequin curtain? A bespoke flower wall or a backdrop printed with your new monogram will add to the cost, but it'll look amazing.
- Themed Props: If you're going all-out with a specific theme, say a James Bond casino night worthy of Daniel Craig himself, you might want custom props to match. Sourcing or creating these will nudge the final quote up a bit.
- Guest Books: A hugely popular add-on. An attendant will encourage your guests to stick a copy of their photo print into a book and scribble a message next to it. This service typically adds between £50 and £100 to the package.
Knowing what goes into the price gives you the power. For instance, the captivating experience of a 360 camera booth creates memories in a completely new way and is becoming a massive trend. By understanding what drives the cost, you can decide which features are your "must-haves" and where you can be a bit more flexible.
Decoding Photo Booth Packages: From Basic to All-Out Bespoke
Trying to figure out photo booth packages can feel a bit like booking a holiday. You've got your basic, no-frills option, a more comfortable choice with a few lovely extras, and then the full-on, first-class experience where every detail is taken care of. The secret is knowing exactly what you're getting for your money at each level, so you can pick the perfect one for your big day without any guesswork.
Think of an entry-level or "Bronze" package as your budget-friendly ticket to fun. It gets the essential job done: a photo booth at your wedding! This usually includes a set hire time, typically 2-3 hours, a standard backdrop, a decent collection of props, and digital-only copies of all the snaps delivered to you after the party. It’s effective, a guaranteed laugh, and a fantastic way to capture memories without stretching the budget.
This is a brilliant option for couples who want to add that extra spark for their guests but need to keep a close eye on the pennies. Even a basic booth creates cherished memories. Many suppliers bundle packages with high-quality cameras and printers to give you great value, and you can sometimes find deals starting from as low as £179. If you fancy a deep dive, you can find more industry insights on the Photobooth Supply Co. blog.
Upgrading to the VIP Experience
Right, let's move up to the pointy end of the plane. A "Platinum" or bespoke package is your first-class ticket, designed for a wedding that feels truly special. This is where all the luxurious extras come into play, turning a fun feature into an unforgettable experience.
So, what does that first-class treatment get you?
- Unlimited Instant Prints: No more squabbling over who gets the photo! Every single guest in every picture can take a physical copy home.
- Premium Guest Book Service: A dedicated attendant makes sure a copy of every photo strip goes into a beautiful album, where guests can write you a personal message right next to their silly faces.
- Bespoke Backdrops and Props: We're talking way beyond a standard sequin curtain. Think lush flower walls like the one at Kim Kardashian's wedding, custom neon signs with your names, or props perfectly tailored to your wedding theme.
- Longer Hire Time: You'll usually get 4 hours or more, which means the booth stays open well into the evening when the party is in full swing.
The real magic of a premium package isn't just one single feature, but how they all come together. The booth stops being just an activity and becomes a central part of your entertainment—all while creating a priceless, hilarious keepsake in the form of your guest book.
Analysing the Packages Side-by-Side
To lay it all out, let's compare what you'll typically find when you start getting quotes. The biggest differences usually pop up in the prints, the level of personalisation, and the on-the-day service you receive. Grasping these distinctions is key, especially if you're eyeing up something more advanced like an interactive mirror photo booth, which often includes premium features as standard.
To make this crystal clear, here’s a handy table breaking down what you can generally expect from different package tiers.
Typical Wedding Photo Booth Package Comparison
| Feature | Budget Package (e.g., Bronze) | Mid-Range Package (e.g., Silver) | Premium Package (e.g., Platinum) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hire Time | 2-3 hours | 3-4 hours | 4+ hours |
| Prints | Digital only or limited prints | Unlimited prints | Unlimited prints for every guest |
| Backdrop | Standard selection | Premium selection | Custom/Bespoke backdrop |
| Props | Basic box of props | Themed or premium props | Fully customised props |
| Guest Book | Not included | Often an optional add-on | Included as standard with attendant |
| Customisation | Minimal (e.g., names on print) | Custom print layout designs | Full branding & bespoke experience |
| Attendant | Sometimes included | Usually included | Always included, often dedicated |
Ultimately, choosing the right package is all about matching the cost with your priorities. Do you dream of that guest book filled with lovely messages, or are digital copies perfectly fine? How important is it for the booth to match your theme perfectly? Once you've answered those questions, you can confidently choose your ideal package without a hint of buyer's remorse.
Dodging the Hidden Costs
Just when you think you’ve got your wedding budget wrestled into submission, surprise fees can appear out of nowhere. The initial quote for a photo booth might look like a steal, but it’s what’s hiding in the small print that can really sting. Think of us as your budget-savvy sidekick, here to help you spot those sneaky extras before they crash your party.
You’ve got to be meticulous. Some of the most common add-ons aren’t advertised in big, bold letters, but they can quickly inflate the final bill. Let's pull back the curtain on what to watch out for.
Are We There Yet? Travel and Time Fees
First up: travel costs. If your dream venue is a charming, rustic barn miles from the nearest city, don’t be surprised if a travel surcharge appears on your invoice. Most companies have a set radius they cover for free, but they’ll add a fee for every mile beyond that. It's a totally fair charge, but you need to ask about it upfront to avoid a shock later.
Then there’s the curious case of "idle hours." This is a big one. Say you want the booth fully set up and ready to go before your ceremony, but you don't want it to actually open until after the wedding breakfast. That downtime, where the booth is just sitting pretty, is called idle time. Companies often charge a reduced rate for these hours (think about half the usual price), but it's a cost that catches many couples out. It's brilliant for ensuring a smooth, interruption-free schedule, but it has to be factored into your budget.
"I've seen so many couples get a quote for a four-hour 'active' hire, completely forgetting the two hours the booth might be sitting quietly during dinner and speeches. Always, always ask for a full timeline quote from setup to teardown to see the true cost."
The Little Extras That Pack a Punch
Beyond the logistical costs, a few other popular add-ons can bump up the price. A guest book, for example, is a wonderful memento where guests can stick a copy of their photo strip and leave a message. But it’s almost never included as standard. You can expect this to add somewhere between £50 and £100 to your package, covering the album itself and the extra attendant time to manage it all.
And here’s the big one: always, always ask if VAT is included. A lovely round number like £500 can suddenly become £600 once the 20% VAT is tacked on. A simple question like, "Is this the final price, fully inclusive of VAT?" can save you a world of pain.
Finally, consider your backdrop. Most packages come with a selection of standard backdrops, but if you want something truly special—like a flower wall worthy of Blake Lively's Instagram or a custom-branded design—that will come at an extra cost. For a bit of inspiration on what a killer background can do for your pictures, check out these brilliant ideas for a photo booth with a backdrop and see how it can really make your photos pop.
So, Is a Wedding Photo Booth Actually Worth the Money?
When you're staring at spreadsheets and juggling deposits, it's easy to see a photo booth as just another line item, another expense to question. Is it just a bit of fun, or is there more to it? My advice? Stop thinking of it as a cost and start seeing it as an investment in the entire vibe of your wedding reception.
Honestly, it’s the ultimate ice-breaker. Suddenly, your work colleagues are laughing with your uni mates, and your great-aunt is pulling a silly face with your cousin. It effortlessly fills those little lulls in the day, like when the room is being turned around or while you're off getting your official portraits done. The booth becomes this magnetic little hub of fun, pulling people together.
This isn't just some fleeting trend you'd spot at a celebrity bash hosted by someone like Hailey Bieber. Photo booths have cemented their place as a staple of modern weddings, and for good reason. The European market alone is expected to be worth a whopping $393.31 million by 2028, which tells you they aren’t going anywhere. A standard 4-hour hire is usually the sweet spot, fitting perfectly into the flow of most receptions without a hitch.
More Than Just Fun – It’s Your Wedding Favour Sorted!
Let’s talk wedding favours for a second. Instead of spending a fortune on little trinkets that (let's be honest) often get left behind, a photo booth gives your guests something genuinely personal and fun to take home. They leave with a photo strip plastered with their own smiling faces – a memory they literally just made.
A photo booth pulls double duty. It’s fantastic, high-energy entertainment for the night, and it’s a personalised, memorable favour for every single guest. That’s what you call getting great value.
These aren't your formal, posed wedding photos. These are the candid, off-the-cuff moments of pure joy. The belly laughs, the ridiculous props, the spontaneous group hugs – that's the stuff that builds a completely different kind of memory album, one filled with the authentic spirit of your celebration.
While weighing up all your options, it's interesting to see how technology is changing the game, even leading some people to consider trusting AI for your wedding photography needs. But at its heart, a photo booth is an investment in shared laughter and memories that last a lifetime, making it one of the smartest (and most fun) decisions for your big day.
Your Top Photo Booth Questions Answered
Still got a few questions buzzing around? You're not alone. Choosing the right photo booth isn't just about picking a sparkly backdrop. To help you tick those last few boxes, we've pulled together the most common head-scratchers couples face when they're figuring out the cost of wedding photo booth hire.
Think of this as your final, friendly checklist before you hit the "book" button. We’re laying out clear, no-fluff answers so you can make your final choice with complete confidence, knowing your guests will be talking about it for years. Let's get these sorted!
How Far in Advance Should I Book a Wedding Photo Booth?
Fantastic question, and getting this right will save you a world of hassle. Ideally, you want to be booking your photo booth around 9 to 12 months before the big day. This is non-negotiable if your wedding is during the peak season (think May to September) or on a sought-after Saturday.
Honestly, the best suppliers get snapped up in a flash. Booking early doesn't just secure your date; it can often lock in the current year's pricing, which might save you a few quid. Plus, it gives you plenty of time to mull over custom backdrops and print designs without any last-minute panic. It’s a bit like trying to get Beyoncé tickets—the good ones are gone before you know it!
Can I Save Money with a DIY Photo Booth?
Ah, the DIY dream! While it sounds wonderfully thrifty on paper, it's worth weighing up the reality against the romance of it all. You could, of course, pop a camera on a tripod in front of a nice wall and throw a box of props next to it. But suddenly, you're the IT support, the queue-manager, and the chief-encourager… on your own wedding day.
A professional setup is so much more than just a camera. They bring proper studio lighting that makes everyone look amazing (even after a few glasses of fizz!) and use fancy dye-sublimation printers. These aren't your average home printers; they churn out lab-quality, smudge-proof photos in seconds that will look just as good on your tenth wedding anniversary.
The real value in hiring a professional isn't just the gear; it's the completely seamless, stress-free experience. The hidden costs and potential headaches of a DIY booth often make a professional service the smarter, and ultimately more fun, investment.
What Is the Difference Between an Open-Air and an Enclosed Booth?
This one all comes down to the vibe you're going for. An enclosed booth is that classic, intimate little box where guests pull a curtain behind them. That bit of privacy is often the magic ingredient that encourages people to get extra silly and pull faces they wouldn't dare to in public, leading to some truly priceless photos.
An open-air booth, on the other hand, uses a stylish backdrop with a freestanding camera pod. The huge win here is that you can cram massive groups into one shot – perfect for finally getting that photo with all the cousins at once! Because all the fun is happening out in the open, it becomes part of the party's energy, tempting other guests to see what the commotion is about and jump in. From a purely cost perspective, open-air booths can sometimes be a little friendlier on the wallet, too.
Do I Really Need an Attendant with the Photo Booth?
One hundred percent, yes! A brilliant attendant is worth their weight in gold. They aren't just there to press a button; they are the host of your photo booth, the director of fun. A great attendant will manage the queue with a smile, help your guests find the perfect props, and gently coax the shyer ones (we're looking at you, Uncle Barry!) to get involved.
They're also your on-site troubleshooter, instantly fixing any little glitches with the printer or camera. If you've chosen a guest book package, they’ll masterfully manage it, making sure you end up with a wonderful keepsake full of photos and heartfelt (or hilarious) messages. Without an attendant, that job falls to you or one of your wedding party, pulling you away from the dance floor. They make sure everything runs like clockwork so everyone can focus on having a brilliant time.
Ready to create an unforgettable experience for your guests? At Harry and Edge, we offer everything from classic photo booths to incredible 360-degree video experiences that will make your wedding the talk of the town. Explore our bespoke wedding packages and get a quote today!