You don’t have the budget for a professional photo booth. I hear you. That’s why I decided to make a list of ideas you can choose from, to build your own “photo booth kit without hiring an actual photo booth”. Let’s call it a “selfie booth station”.
I’ll break it down as much as I can and include pricing. Please note that may change according to the vendors, offer, etc.
Do you think it is cheaper or not to build a DIY photo booth kit? Let’s find out.
DIY Photo Booth Kit for Your Wedding or Other Event
With a few carefully chosen items, you can set up a DIY photo booth that will wow your guests.
From backdrops to quirky props, this list has everything you need to create a fun and affordable photo booth experience.
Just a quick note: some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase—at no extra cost to you! I only recommend items I’d genuinely use myself or that we already use in our business. I’ve been careful to only include products that I truly believe are helpful and worth it.
Now let’s dive in!
1. Adjustable Backdrop Stand
I just couldn’t decide which one to go for, so I had to show you both. It is obvious one is much more aesthetic than the other, however, they both serve different purposes, too. So depending on the type of backdrop you go for in the end, either of these backdrops should be a great choice.
You can go for a sturdy, adjustable backdrop stand that is the foundation for your booth. In this case, you need to hide most of the stand itself, which you can easily do with a curtain-type backdrop (few options will come below). It’s easy to set up, and with a couple of clips, it holds any fabric or sheet you choose.
Also, you can have a more versatile stand, which can easily be used as your wedding ceremony backdrop once it’s been decorate. You have more options to choose here in terms of decorations and it’s clearly better looking.
TIP: Use fabric clips to secure your backdrop and hide the stand for a seamless look.
Copper Frame Wedding Arch Backdrop
TIP: reuse your backdrop stand & backdrop during the wedding ceremony AND for your DIY photo booth corner! Then, either keep for future parties or sell it straight after the event!
Real-Life Example:
“A bride once reused her copper arch three times during her wedding: for the ceremony, cake cutting, and photo booth. After the event, she sold it for £45, cutting her costs in half!”
2. Balloon Garland Kit
Easy to assemble, balloon garlands add a big pop of colour without much cost.
TIP: Order a set and try it home way before the event, to make sure you like the look! Many times, not being a professional and doing certain decors can be much trickier than it looks.
TIP: You could easily mix faux flowers with the balloon decorations, but do make sure you TEST TEST TEST
Helpful Tutorial: Check out this YouTube tutorial for step-by-step instructions on creating the perfect balloon garland.
3. Fabric Photo Booth Backdrops
Choose a fabric that fits your theme—sequins, glitter, or elegant florals. OR, take your mum with you, go to a big fabric retailer, pick a 2x2m fabric, sew it home and you have your backdrop! Either way, there are so many beautiful options there, it only depends on your budget and Pinterest board, of course.
TIP: Just order a nice looking set of curtain (velvet or with patterns looks really nice) and DONE! Where others see a mere curtain, I always see a photo booth backdrop- we have used them in the past and nobody could tell!
4. Hanging Curtain Lights
Add a touch of sparkle with curtain lights behind your backdrop for a romantic and festive vibe. Plus, LED lights are affordable and reusable!
TIP: You will still need to have some sort of fabric to drape your curtain lights on OR you could ask the venue if you can hang straight on a wall. And yes, you can definitely re-use during the festive season, too.
5. Fake Flower Garland
For a romantic theme, drape a flower garland around the booth. It’s easy to install and enhances any setting instantly.
Real-Life Tip:
“One couple used artificial rose garlands to decorate their ceremony aisle, then moved them to their photo booth. The result? Stunning and budget-friendly decor!”
TIP: Make sure you measure twice before you order anything and don’t leave it too late to order, when you can’t change it any longer
TIP: Want to make the most of your £££ ? The get something you can use during the ceremony then cake cutting and last, the photo booth corner. Sell it after the event you it ends up much more cost-effective than you’d expect.
6. Instant Camera for Your DIY Photo Booth Kit
An instant camera gives guests something to take home. It’s easy to use, and each photo is a mini memento.
TIP: You will spent most money on buying film packs for your instant camera so have someone in charge of these during the event, otherwise kids might finish them in no time
IMPORTANT: extra film is essential. Bulk packs are more affordable
7. Disposable Cameras
Scatter disposable cameras around for guests to capture moments you might miss.
8. Smartphone Tripod with Ring Light
Perfect for modern DIY booths, a smartphone tripod with a ring light lets guests use their own phones, and the light ensures everyone looks amazing.
TIP: Have an adult responsible to keep an eye on the gear, so kids don’t damage before it’s even used.
Also, place a QR code next to the tripod linking to a shared folder or hashtag for guests to upload their photos.
9. DIY Photo Booth Signage
A “Photo Booth” sign lets guests know where the action is, adding personality and helping guide guests. You could easily go down the rabbit hole and find thousand different options to have a sign. I only picked 2, so you have an idea where to start.
TIP: You can easily do this for almost free (print your own sign with a CANVA design).
10. Funny Glasses and Hats
Classic photo booth props like oversized glasses and hats bring out everyone’s playful side. By far, one of the most popular photo booth props are the stylish heart-shaped sunglasses. I buy batches upon batches of these props each year.
TIP: Make sure you get at least 20-30 pairs, depending on your crowd. Guests tend to take them on the dance floor so the photo booth corner will go without props.
On the list of popular props which make a statement are obviously, hats and wigs. Here are some of our recommendations.
DIY TIP: Use Canva to design and print your own “Photo Booth” sign. Add phrases like “Strike a Pose!” or “Make Me Insta-Famous!”
11. Themed Prop Sets
For a cohesive look, themed prop kits bring instant character to your booth. Props on sticks, like crowns, bowties, and lips, are classic photo booth accessories that add personality to each shot.
12. Neon “Photo Booth” Sign
A neon sign amps up the energy, especially at night events, for a trendy look that guests will love.
TIP: You might also look into hiring a neon sign for your photo booth corner. There are companies, like ours, who can hire the entire setup for less than the price of buying it from scratch.
Neon Sign for Photo Booth DIY Kit from Etsy
£95+
13. Speech Bubble Chalkboards
Reusable chalkboards let guests write their own messages, adding a unique touch to each photo.
14. Disco Ball
A small disco ball adds a bit of retro glam, creating that party vibe instantly.
15. Prop Storage Basket
Organise everything in a cute basket to keep the area neat, and it doubles as home storage later!
16. Photo Album or Guest Book
Set up a guest book where guests can leave a printout or message. It’s a lovely keepsake that you can treasure after the event.
Real-Life Tip:
“At a birthday party, we provided a guest book alongside metallic markers. Guests got creative, and the host had a keepsake filled with hilarious doodles!”
17. Sparkly or Plain Markers for the Guest Book
Give guests a way to personalise their entries with sparkly or plain markers. Offer a few colours so everyone can get creative.
These items are affordable, easy to set up, and create an unforgettable DIY photo booth experience. With a bit of creativity and some well-chosen products, you’ll give your guests an amazing time and capture memories to last a lifetime. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or holiday party, this DIY kit is all you need to get the fun started.
NOW LET’S DO THE MATHS.
DIY Photo Booth Kit for Your Event: Estimated Cost Summary Using the More Affordable Items
| Item Category | Example Item | Average Price (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Backdrop Stand | Adjustable Stand | 49 |
| Balloon Garland Kit | Blush Balloon Garland | 9 |
| Fabric Backdrop | Gold Velvet Curtains | 56 |
| Curtain Lights | Curtain Lights | 8 |
| Flower Garland | Greenery Vine Leaves | 25 |
| Instant Camera | KODAK Mini Shot | 112 |
| Disposable Cameras | Disposable Camera Bundle | 59 |
| Smartphone Tripod w/ Light | Ring Light w/ Tripod Stand | 45 |
| DIY Signage | Photo Booth Props Sign | 16 |
| Props (Glasses/Hats) | Heart-shaped Glasses | 14 |
| Themed Prop Set | Black & Gold Party Props | 7 |
| Neon Sign | Small Neon Sign | 95 |
| Chalkboard Speech Bubbles | Speech Bubble Blackboards | 5 |
| Disco Ball | Disco Balls | 29 |
| Prop Storage Basket | Rattan Basket | 28 |
| Guest Book | Linen Guest Book | 35 |
| Markers for Guest Book | Metallic Markers | 8 |
Total Estimated Cost: £590
Is DIY Really Cheaper?
Creating a DIY “Selfie Booth Station” can be more budget-friendly than renting a professional photo booth, but ONLY if you’re willing to select fewer items or opt for reusable items that can be sold or reused after the event.
DIY booths can be more budget-friendly if you’re willing to put in the time and effort. priorities:
- DIY Kit: Affordable but requires planning and setup.
- Professional Rental: Convenient with high-quality prints and stress-free execution
With a potential cost of around £590, a DIY setup may be more economical, considering professional booth rentals typically range from £500-£700 for a single event.
If you’re curious how much we charge and what your package would include, check this link. Don’t forget you are also paying for a stress-free experience (no work needed on your side) AND everyone goes home with studio-quality prints. That’s £665 for the standard package, to keep it simple for you.
Would you still make your own DIY Photo Booth Kit or prefer to pay for a better experience altogether? That’s for you to decide. But you know how to find us if you decide for our offer.
I did say we’ll go deep into this subject so I’ll try to answer all of your questions, as best as I possibly can.
Cost and Budget
- Is it cheaper to make a DIY photo booth?
Creating your own photo booth can be less expensive than renting a professional one, especially if you are careful about your choices and reuse items. The estimated cost for a DIY photo booth with affordable items is £590, while renting a professional photo booth typically ranges from £500 to £700. - How can I save money on my DIY photo booth?
You can reduce costs by opting for a simple backdrop stand with a curtain, using curtains as backdrops, repurposing decorations from the wedding ceremony, designing your “Photo Booth” sign using Canva, and buying props in bulk.
Design and Aesthetics
- What are some creative backdrop ideas for a DIY photo booth?
By using sequins, glitter, floral fabrics, curtains (velvet or patterned), balloon garlands, flower garlands, or hanging curtain lights draped on fabric or a wall. - What are some popular DIY photo booth themes?
The sky is the limit but here are some ideas: Romantic theme (flower garlands, soft fabrics, curtain lights), festive (balloon garlands, bright colours, sparkly decorations), retro (disco ball, vintage-inspired props), or rustic (natural elements like wood and greenery).
Props and Accessories
- What are some must-have props for a DIY photo booth?
The essential props include funny glasses and hats, themed prop sets, and speech bubble chalkboards. - Where can I find affordable photo booth props?
You can find affordable props on Amazon, Etsy, or at your local party supply stores.
Equipment and Technology
- What type of camera should I use for my DIY photo booth?
You can choose between instant cameras, which allow guests to take instant prints home, and disposable cameras, which are great for capturing spontaneous moments during the event. - How can I make sure my photos turn out well?
Using a smartphone tripod with a ring light will help you achieve good lighting and steady shots. Remember to test your lighting and camera setup in advance to make necessary adjustments. - How can guests share their photos?
Provide a QR code linked to a shared folder or hashtag for guests to upload their pictures, or designate an area for displaying instant camera prints.
Guest Experience
- How can I make my DIY photo booth more engaging for guests?
You can create a fun and inviting atmosphere with music and decorations, provide various props to encourage creativity, and have someone assist guests and maintain order in the photo booth area. - How can I preserve the memories from my DIY photo booth?
Set up a photo album or guest book for guests to leave their prints and messages, and encourage them to use a specific hashtag on social media.
Additional Tips
- Plan and set up your DIY photo booth beforehand to avoid stress on the event day.
- Designate someone to oversee the photo booth, particularly if you are using valuable equipment or props.
- Ensure good photo quality with adequate lighting in the photo booth area.
- Consider guest flow and traffic when selecting a location for your photo booth.
Have we missed anything? Drop us an email and we’d love to help if we can!
