Is a Wedding Photo Booth Really Worth the Splurge?

Photo booths seem to be ubiquitous with modern weddings, but they're certainly not a requirement. Whether you're considering a vintage booth, an open-air setup by your photographer, or a DIY backdrop that guests can pose in front of, you may find yourself considering whether this is an expense that's really worth the splurge. Here are some of the pros and cons to help you make the decision that's best for your wedding and your budget.

Pro: You'll get an additional set of wedding photos.

Your guests love to pose at the photo booth, but these snaps are tons of fun for the couple to look through after the wedding, too. Think of it as a way to see what friends were up to when you weren't around. Your professional photos will be great for framing and hanging in your home but flipping through an album filled with photo booth snaps is guaranteed to put a smile on your face for years to come.

Con: There are more costs to consider than just the actual rental.

There are often additional expenses beyond just the product and service. You'll need to provide a meal for the vendor running the booth and you may need to cover the cost of transportation and mileage, web hosting fees for photos that are available for digital download, and any extra printing or album costs. If your booth doesn't come with props or lighting, you'll likely need to save some money for these expenses, too.

Pro: The photos can double as favors.

If you opt to book a photo booth that prints photo strips, your guests have will have a wedding favor they'll actually want to keep. It's one less thing to cross off your wedding to-do list.

Con: They can take away from the party atmosphere.

The placement of your photo booth, and when you choose to open it to guests, can mean that its presence splits up the party more than you intended. It's usually best to have the photo booth open after dinner and set near the dance floor area. But it's important to remember that, depending on what your guests are like, this interactive activity can be a distraction from the rest of the reception. Imagine what the dance floor would be like if all your college friends were off trying to cram into one photo?

Pro: It's a nice option for those who don't want to dance.

A photo booth is fun for guests of all ages, and it'll give your attendees something to do when they need a break from the dance floor. Plus, photo booths can be a great ice breaker for guests who haven't seen each other in a while or who don't know a lot of people at your wedding. Think of it as a good place for your loved ones to bond.