Photo booths have become a must-have at weddings and events, adding a playful touch to the festivities and creating fun memories for guests to take home. What can make these photo moments even more memorable? Creative photo booth props! Whether you’re planning a wedding, a birthday party, or a corporate event, the right props can elevate the experience, offering endless entertainment and fantastic photos. Let’s dive into some creative ideas to make your photo booth stand out.
1. Custom Speech Bubbles
Give your guests a voice with fun and customizable speech bubbles! Provide chalkboard or dry-erase markers so they can write their own messages. Whether it’s a heartfelt “Best Day Ever” or a hilarious “I’m just here for the cake,” these props add a personalized touch to the photos.
Pro Tip:
Print pre-made speech bubbles with popular sayings like “Team Bride,” “Life of the Party,” or “Cheers!” for those who prefer something ready-made.
2. Oversized Sunglasses and Wacky Eyewear
There’s something about putting on giant, brightly colored sunglasses that brings out everyone’s goofy side. Add to the fun with an assortment of funky eyewear—retro cat-eye frames, star-shaped glasses, and neon aviators. This timeless prop always gets a laugh and guarantees funny, candid shots.
Pro Tip:
Consider creating a “themed” eyewear collection—think 80s neon, glamorous Hollywood styles, or festival boho vibes, depending on your event’s atmosphere.
3. Themed Masks and Costumes
Props that tie into a specific theme are perfect for weddings and events that have a set motif. For a masquerade-themed event, elegant masks and feathered accessories are a must. For a beach-themed wedding, include straw hats, Hawaiian leis, and maybe even a surfboard backdrop! Costume pieces like crowns, tiaras, capes, or even full-on superhero masks can make photo booth pictures feel more interactive and unique.
Pro Tip:
If your wedding or event is during a particular season, incorporate holiday-themed props—think Santa hats and reindeer antlers for a winter wedding or floral crowns and bunny ears for a springtime celebration.
4. Vintage-Inspired Frames
Turn your photo booth into an art gallery with oversized vintage picture frames. Guests can hold these frames in front of them, creating the illusion that they’re part of a beautiful portrait. Go for ornate gold frames for a chic look or rustic wooden frames for a boho vibe.
Pro Tip:
Create multiple frame sizes and colors, so guests can mix and match. This adds a whimsical and layered effect to group shots!
5. Fun Hats and Headgear
Hats are an easy way to get guests to loosen up and have fun in front of the camera. Go for an eclectic mix: top hats, flower crowns, cowboy hats, and even Viking helmets. The quirkier the hat, the better!
Pro Tip:
Make sure to include a variety of headpieces for different themes or personalities. Guests will love trying on different styles, whether they’re going for “wild and crazy” or “elegant and chic.”
6. Colorful Wigs
For those who want to get into character, wigs are a hilarious addition to any photo booth. From long neon wigs to curly clown hair, guests will love transforming themselves in just seconds.
Pro Tip:
Try to include a variety of colors, lengths, and styles, so people can get creative with their looks. A rainbow wig or a classic bob could add a whole new vibe to their photo!
7. Giant Inflatable Props
Make a statement with giant inflatable props like oversized champagne bottles, microphones, guitars, or flamingos. These larger-than-life items add humor and create a standout moment in any photo. Plus, they double as great conversation starters throughout the event.
Pro Tip:
Inflatables are perfect for outdoor photo booths or parties with a lot of space. Make sure they are easy to handle but big enough to make a visual impact.
8. Cultural or Regional Props
If your wedding or event is embracing your heritage or a particular culture, offer props that reflect that theme. For example, sombreros, maracas, and colorful shawls can bring a lively Mexican flair, while parasols and silk fans could give an event an Asian-inspired elegance.
Pro Tip:
Custom signs in different languages that say “Cheers” or “Congratulations” can also enhance the theme and make for some unique, meaningful shots.
9. DIY Handheld Cutouts
For a truly personalized touch, create custom cutout props that reflect the couple’s or the event’s personality. You can have cutouts of the bride and groom’s faces, favorite pets, or iconic symbols that mean something to the hosts (like an airplane for a travel-loving couple or a musical note for music enthusiasts).
Pro Tip:
Create a mix of both silly and sweet cutouts. Funny faces, mustaches, and lips on sticks can get a laugh, while hearts, stars, or even the event’s logo can add a more sentimental touch.
10. Neon Signs and LED Props
Glowing props add a modern touch to any photo booth. Handheld LED signs that say “Love,” “Party,” or “Let’s Dance” can light up any photo, literally. These modern props are eye-catching, especially in low-light settings, and bring an exciting and contemporary feel to the booth.
Pro Tip:
For a tech-savvy wedding or event, consider integrating props with LEDs or lights that change colors, adding even more fun to the mix.
Final Thoughts
The key to a great photo booth is creativity, and the props are what make the experience truly unforgettable. A good mix of funny, quirky, and meaningful items will keep guests returning or more pictures throughout the event. Remember, it’s not just about the props themselves but also how they reflect the vibe and theme of the celebration. So, when planning your wedding or event, don’t overlook the power of the photo booth—let the props be part of the fun, laughter, and, most importantly, the memories!
Complete Weddings + Events Northwest Arkansas
Complete Weddings + Events in Northwest Arkansas can help you elevate your wedding day. Contact us today to kickstart your wedding planning with our photography, videography, DJ, photo booth, and coordination services. For more wedding inspiration, head over to our blog page.