So, you're thinking about your wedding entertainment budget? Let's talk photo booths. In the UK, you can expect to see photo booth wedding prices fall somewhere between £250 and £700. Of course, that's a pretty wide range. The final figure really boils down to what kind of booth you fancy and how long you want to keep the party going.
Your Instant Guide to Wedding Photo Booth Prices
From cosy, intimate weddings to star-studded affairs like Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz's big day, photo booths have become an absolute must-have. They're a brilliant way to get your guests laughing and mingling, plus everyone gets to take home a fun, personal keepsake. But with all the different styles out there, figuring out the costs can feel a bit like guesswork.
Let's cut through the confusion. This guide is your cheat sheet, giving you a clear, instant picture of what you should expect to pay.
A First Look at the Costs
The single biggest thing that'll shape the price is the type of booth you choose. A classic, enclosed booth gives you that nostalgic, passport-photo vibe, while a snazzy magic mirror offers a more high-tech, interactive experience. Each one has its own price tag, which usually reflects its features and the space it needs.
This little chart gives you a quick side-by-side comparison of the starting prices for the most popular styles.
As you can see, the more bells and whistles a booth has, the higher its starting price. Those amazing magic mirrors sit at the premium end for a reason!
Typical Hire Prices Across the UK
To help you really get to grips with your budget, let's break down the numbers by how long you hire the booth for. Most couples book for 2, 3, or 4 hours, so this table gives you a solid idea of what to expect for those popular time slots.
Average UK Wedding Photo Booth Hire Prices at a Glance
Here’s a summary of what you might pay for different booth types based on standard hire times. Think of it as your quick-reference guide for estimating costs.
| Photo Booth Type | Average 2-Hour Hire | Average 3-Hour Hire | Average 4-Hour Hire |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Enclosed Booth | £250 – £350 | £350 – £450 | £450 – £550 |
| Open-Air Booth | £300 – £400 | £400 – £500 | £500 – £600 |
| Magic Mirror Booth | £350 – £500 | £450 – £600 | £550 – £700 |
| 360 Video Booth | £500 – £650 | £600 – £800 | £750 – £950+ |
As with most things, these prices can vary, but this gives you a fantastic starting point for your wedding planning.
In London's vibrant wedding scene, you can find some great deals. Hire prices can kick off from as low as £199 for a classic enclosed booth – perfect for those silly, private poses behind the curtain. Open-air booths, which are brilliant for getting big groups in on the action, generally land between £250 and £500.
If you're after that real "wow" factor, magic mirror booths with their fun touch-screen animations start around £300 and can climb to £700. And for the ultimate showstopper, the immersive 360 video booths often command £600+ for their epic slow-motion magic. If you're tying the knot in the capital, it's worth diving deeper into specific photo booth costs in London.
So, What Kind of Wedding Photo Booths Are Actually Out There?
Think a photo booth is just a box with a curtain? Think again. Choosing a photo booth these days is less about picking a piece of kit and more about deciding what kind of atmosphere you want to create. This is your backstage pass to the wild world of wedding photo booths, so you can see exactly how each type shapes the final photo booth wedding prices.
Let's dive in and look past the price list to explore the unique character each booth brings to the party. From classic and cosy to sleek and cinematic, we'll find the perfect sidekick for your big day.
The Classic Enclosed Booth
You know the one. This is the icon, the OG, the booth that started it all. Just picture the hilarious, secret moments that happen once that curtain closes. It’s a private little world where even your shyest uncle can let his hair down, grab a feather boa, and strike a pose.
This traditional style creates a sense of intimacy that’s hard to beat. It’s the go-to for that nostalgic, spontaneous fun you see at big bashes like the Oscars after-party, where stars like Jennifer Lawrence are snapped pulling funny faces. Its self-contained nature turns it into a little hub of pure, unadulterated laughter.
Why we love it: The enclosed booth is perfect for creating a private, silly atmosphere. Its classic design often makes it one of the more budget-friendly options, delivering fantastic value and absolutely timeless fun.
It’s a brilliant choice for couples who love a touch of tradition and want to guarantee some truly uninhibited snapshots from their nearest and dearest. A classic for a reason.
The Modern Open-Air Booth
Right, so if the enclosed booth is a private party for two, the open-air booth is a full-on festival stage. This modern alternative kicks down the walls, allowing for massive group shots and a much more inclusive feel. Your entire bridal party can pile in for one epic shot without anyone getting squashed.
These setups usually feature a seriously stylish backdrop, which you can customise to perfectly match your wedding theme. Because it’s all out in the open, it becomes part of the main event, and you’ll find onlookers can’t help but get drawn into the fun. It’s the kind of thing you’d see at George and Amal Clooney's wedding, where getting everyone in the frame is a must.
The Sleek Selfie Pod
Meet the Selfie Pod: the minimalist, chic cousin in the photo booth family. These things are compact, stylish, and incredibly versatile, making them an absolute dream for intimate venues or weddings where you’re tight on space. At its heart, it’s a camera, a screen, and a ring light all bundled into one slick package.
Their smaller footprint often means a more accessible price point, too. This makes them a fantastic choice for couples who want all the fun of a photo booth without having to dedicate a whole corner of their reception to it.
The Glamorous Magic Mirror
Fancy a bit of Hollywood sparkle? The Magic Mirror isn't just a booth; it’s an interactive experience. A huge hit at events hosted by stars like Kim Kardashian, this full-length mirror actually talks to your guests with fun animations and cheeky compliments.
Guests can get creative and sign their photos right on the touchscreen mirror before hitting print. It’s a total showstopper that adds a layer of high-tech glamour and fun to any reception.
The Cinematic 360 Video Booth
For the ultimate "wow" factor, nothing comes close to the 360 Video Booth. Forget static photos—this is all about creating slick, slow-motion videos that make every guest feel like they’re the star of a music video. You stand on a platform while a camera arm circles around, capturing a stunning, super-shareable clip.
This is the top-tier option for couples who want to create content that’s guaranteed to blow up their guests' social media feeds. It’s an immersive experience that delivers memories in motion, turning every guest into the hero of their own mini-movie.
Right, let's talk brass tacks. You've sent out a few enquiries for a photo booth and the quotes have come back… all over the place. One seems like a bargain at £300, while another, the kind of flashy setup you'd expect to see at a celebrity bash like Taylor Swift's birthday party, is creeping north of £800. What gives?
That final number on your quote isn't just plucked from thin air. It’s a carefully blended cocktail of different elements, and understanding them is your superpower. It’ll help you master your budget, compare quotes like a pro, and know exactly what you’re getting for your money.
Think of it like ordering a bespoke suit or a custom wedding cake. The basic model is great, but it’s the hand-stitched details, the premium silk lining, or the extra tier of salted caramel that makes it yours. And, of course, adjusts the price. A photo booth hire works in precisely the same way. The booth itself is the foundation, but the final cost is all in the customisation.
The Big Three Cost Influencers
So, let's pull back the curtain on the main things that make the price swing one way or the other. Get your head around these, and you'll see why one quote can look so different from the next.
- Booth Type: As we've already touched on, the style of the booth is the number one price driver. A fancy, all-singing-all-dancing 360 Video Booth needs more sophisticated tech and software than a classic enclosed booth, and the price tag will reflect that. It's the difference between a Mini and a Range Rover – both brilliant, but built for different experiences.
- Hire Duration: Simple one, this. How long do you want the party to last? Most companies will package their services in two, three, or four-hour slots. The longer the booth is up and running, the more it will cost to cover the attendant’s time and the use of the equipment.
- Location, Location, Location: Where you're tying the knot really does matter. A swanky central London hotel will likely mean extra costs for the supplier, like congestion charges, parking, and just the general headache of navigating the city. A rustic barn out in the sticks? Probably fewer logistical hurdles. Always, always ask if travel fees are included in your quote.
With the average UK wedding budget hovering around £21,990, photo booths are one of the most high-impact, yet surprisingly affordable, bits of entertainment you can get. While recent data shows venue hire has shot up by 10.5% and photography by 8%, photo booths remain a fantastic value-for-money option. They're an accessible bit of luxury that brings everyone together. You can discover more insights about wedding photo booth costs and see how they stack up.
The Attendant and Prints Factor
Beyond those big three, a couple of other key players have a big say in your final bill. These are the things that directly shape your guests' experience, so it pays to know what you’re getting.
First up, the booth attendant. A dedicated attendant is the secret ingredient for a brilliant, hassle-free time. They aren't just standing there to press a button; they're the host, the hype-person, and the troubleshooter all rolled into one. They’ll coax your shy uncle in for a photo, keep the props tidy, and sort out any technical gremlins before you even know they exist. Their presence means you can just relax and enjoy the party, which is a service worth its weight in gold.
Then we have the great print debate: digital snaps or physical keepsakes? Getting digital copies zapped straight to your phone is great for instant Instagram glory, but let’s be honest, there’s a special kind of magic in holding a real photo strip. Most packages include a certain number of prints – often two per go (one for your guest to keep, one for your guestbook). If you want every single person in a group shot to get their own copy, that’ll usually be an add-on that bumps up the price.
Top Tip: Always get clarity on what "unlimited prints" actually means. Is it unlimited photo sessions with one print each time? Or a print for every single person in every photo? That little distinction can make a huge difference to your final invoice.
Finally, don't forget about timing. A Saturday wedding in the middle of August is peak season, so expect to pay a premium. But if you’re getting hitched on a Tuesday in January? You might just find suppliers have a bit more wiggle room on their prices. Once you understand all these moving parts, you can confidently piece together a photo booth package that’s perfect for your day and your budget.
Choosing Add-Ons That Elevate Your Experience
Alright, you’ve sorted the booth and the timing, but now we get to the really fun stuff. The add-ons. These are the secret ingredients, the little bits of magic that transform your photo booth from just another bit of fun into a legendary part of your wedding day. Think of it like accessorising an outfit – it’s how you inject your unique personality into every single snapshot.
These brilliant extras are what really shape the final photo booth wedding prices, turning a standard package into something completely bespoke. Let's dive into the upgrades that get guests buzzing long after the confetti has settled.
Creating a Priceless Keepsake
A guest book is easily one of the most popular and heartwarming add-ons you can choose. It’s an absolutely genius way to bottle the spirit of your day. The process is simple: after your guests strike a pose, they get two copies of their photo strip. One is for them to keep, and the other gets glued straight into a gorgeous album on the spot.
Right next to their snaps, they can scribble a message, share a daft memory, or offer some heartfelt advice for your future together. What you’re left with is a priceless, hilarious, and often surprisingly emotional memento. It knocks a traditional guest book filled with just signatures into a cocked hat.
Curated Props and Custom Backdrops
Forget that tired old box of feather boas and plastic sunglasses. A premium prop collection, tailored specifically to your wedding theme, takes the whole experience to another level. Got a James Bond theme? Think spy gadgets and bow ties. Planning a festival-vibe wedding? We're talking flower crowns and biodegradable glitter. It’s these little details that show you’ve really thought about it.
In the same way, a custom backdrop can completely reinvent the look and feel of your photos. Imagine a lush flower wall, a cool rustic wooden panel, or a shimmering sequin curtain that catches the light perfectly. It just looks so much more polished. For some great ideas on taking your photo booth's visuals to the next level, you can explore various event backdrops to hire.
Celebrity Inspiration: When Hailey and Justin Bieber got married, their photo booth was the definition of chic. They went all-in with custom props and a super-sleek backdrop, making sure every photo screamed A-list elegance and perfectly matched the vibe of their big day.
Digital Delights for the Social Media Age
Let's be honest, we live in a world where if you didn't post it, it didn't happen. That's where digital add-ons come in. They don't just capture the moment; they make it instantly shareable, spreading the joy of your wedding across the internet.
- Animated GIFs & Boomerangs: Why have a still photo when you can have a moving one? GIFs and Boomerangs capture a few seconds of pure chaos, creating looping clips that are absolutely made for Instagram stories.
- Digital Props: Guests can get creative right on the screen, adding digital stickers, filters, and fun frames to their pictures, just like on their favourite apps.
- Dedicated Sharing Stations: This is a game-changer. Instead of a crowd huddling around the booth trying to email their photos, a separate sharing station (usually an iPad on a stand) lets them do it instantly. This keeps the queue for the booth moving and the party flowing.
These digital extras are brilliant for keeping everyone engaged and getting your wedding hashtag some serious love. Bundling them into your main package is often a savvy way to manage your photo booth wedding prices while dialling the fun up to eleven.
How to Compare Quotes and Book with Confidence
Right, you've got a few quotes in your inbox, but they're all a bit different, aren't they? One looks cheap but has a list of 'optional extras' as long as your arm. Another boasts about "unlimited prints," which sounds great… but what does it really mean? It's time to get a bit forensic with the details.
Comparing quotes isn't about hunting down the absolute rock-bottom price. It’s about finding the best bang for your buck and avoiding any nasty surprises later on. A flashy low price can quickly spiral if essentials like travel or even the prints themselves aren't actually included.
Your Quote Comparison Checklist
Before you even think about signing a contract, run every single quote through this checklist. This will help you spot the great deals from the "too good to be true" ones.
Are All Costs Included? Be direct. Ask if the price includes VAT. Are there any hidden travel fees, especially if your venue is out in the sticks? A good, transparent quote will have everything broken down, clear as day.
What Does 'Unlimited Prints' Actually Mean? This is a big one. Does "unlimited" mean one print per photo session, leaving your five university mates to fight over it? Or does it mean a print for every single guest in the photo, every single time? The difference is massive.
What’s the Attendant's Role? You absolutely want a dedicated attendant for the full hire period. Confirm they’re included. Their job is to keep the queue moving, show your nan how to use the props, and sort out any tech hiccups. This leaves you free to hit the dance floor.
How Much Setup Time is Needed? The company should arrive well before your hire time starts to get set up. You should never be paying for their setup time – your hire period is purely for you and your guests to enjoy.
Looking Beyond the Price Tag
A great price is brilliant, but reliability? That's priceless. A photo booth company's reputation is built on more than just a box of silly hats. Do a little extra homework before you commit.
Start by digging into their recent reviews on Google and wedding planning sites. Are people talking about how friendly the attendant was? Was the company on time? Were the photos top-notch? A few glowing reviews are nice, but a long history of happy customers is what you're really looking for.
Don't be shy about asking the important questions. A professional company will happily show you proof of their Public Liability Insurance and will have a solid backup plan if a bit of kit fails on the night. This is all about your peace of mind.
To really nail your spending and book with total confidence, it helps to weave some effective wedding budget tips into your overall plan. Seeing how the photo booth fits into the bigger picture helps you make smarter decisions everywhere else.
When to Seal the Deal
The UK photo booth scene is packed with options. You can find simple selfie pods starting from £150-£379, while party booths with fun extras like wind machines hover around £429. Glam magic mirrors can command £479-£700, and for that show-stopping experience, a premium 360 booth will easily top £600.
With weddings making up over 60% of the industry's business, demand is huge, especially during peak season (May to October). If you’re getting married on a Saturday in summer, our best advice is to book your photo booth a good 9-12 months in advance. The best suppliers get snapped up fast, and leaving it late means fewer choices and less bargaining power. Book early, lock it in, and tick another massive thing off your to-do list
Right then, you've sifted through the different styles, eyed up the extras, and lined up the quotes. But what about those last few niggly questions buzzing around your head? Let’s get them sorted.
Think of this as your cheat sheet for locking in your photo booth booking with total confidence. We'll clear up any final questions about photo booth wedding prices and the practical bits, so you can happily tick another thing off that massive wedding to-do list.
How Far in Advance Should I Book My Wedding Photo Booth?
Honestly? As soon as you can. For a prime-time wedding during the peak season (think May to September), you’ll want to be booking your photo booth a good 9-12 months ahead. The really cool, in-demand suppliers – especially those with unique booths like the 360s – get snapped up for Saturday dates ridiculously fast. It's just like your venue; the best ones always go first.
If your big day is in the off-season, you’ve got a bit more wiggle room. Booking 4-6 months out is usually fine. But even then, getting in early is never a bad idea. It means you get your first choice of booth and supplier, rather than having to settle for what's left.
Are Travel Costs Included in the Photo Booth Price?
This is a big one, and it really depends on the company. Most suppliers will include travel for free within a certain area, say, a 50-mile radius from their base. That's usually baked right into the standard package price.
But if your dream venue is a stunning barn out in the sticks, you should probably expect to see a surcharge for the extra mileage and the attendant's time.
Any decent, professional quote will break this down for you, listing travel as a separate line item. If you don’t see it mentioned, don't just assume it’s free. Always ask! It’s the best way to avoid a surprise on the final bill.
This way, you know exactly what you're paying for from the get-go.
What's the Difference Between "Unlimited" and "Duplicate" Prints?
Ah, the lingo! Getting this straight is one of the most important things you can do when comparing photo booth wedding prices, because they mean very different things.
- Unlimited Prints: This sounds great, but it usually just means your guests can hop in the booth as many times as they want. The catch? Often, only one physical copy is printed per session, no matter if there are two or ten people crammed into the shot.
- Duplicate Prints: Now this is what you want, especially if you're planning a guest book. It means two copies pop out every single time. One for your guests to keep as a memento, and one for them to stick in your album with a lovely (or cheeky) message.
Some top-tier packages might even offer a print for every single person in the photo, but you'll want to double-check that. Always get clarity on what "unlimited" really means so it matches what you’re picturing for your day.
Can We Customise the Photo Strips with Our Wedding Monogram?
Of course! This is where the magic happens. Pretty much any professional photo booth company will let you personalise the photo strips. It's one of the best ways to make the whole experience feel like yours.
You can add your names, the wedding date, or that gorgeous custom monogram you've used on all your other stationery. Most suppliers have a whole library of templates you can pick from or tweak to get it just right.
Before you put down a deposit, ask to see some of their previous designs. And while you're at it, confirm if this is included in the package or if it’s an optional extra. It’s a small detail, but it makes the final photo strip a truly personal keepsake from your celebration.