Are you thinking about adding a glam photo booth to your wedding, corporate event, or celebration? If this is your first time booking one, you probably have questions. And that is completely normal. The glam photo booth experience is becoming increasingly popular, but there is a lot of confusion around what goes into actually booking and hosting one at your event.
Whether you are wondering about pricing, space requirements, how guests actually use the booth, or what happens on event day, this guide covers everything first-time bookers need to know before committing to a glam booth rental.
What Is a Glam Photo Booth? (The Quick Version)
A glam photo booth is a professional black and white portrait photo booth that creates editorial-style, high-end images for your guests. Often called “Kardashian style” booths because of their celebrity popularity, glam photo booths feature studio-grade lighting, DSLR cameras, beauty filters, and a sleek aesthetic that produces magazine-quality photos in seconds.
Unlike traditional colorful photo booths with playful props, glam booths focus on timeless elegance. The photos print instantly (typically in under 10 seconds), and guests walk away with premium keepsakes they actually want to display.
Glam Photo Booth Pricing: What You Actually Pay
Let’s get to the money question first. Glam photo booth pricing varies depending on location, rental duration, and additional features, but here is what you can typically expect.
Standard Glam Photo Booth Rental Pricing
According to current 2025 industry data, glam photo booths typically start at $2,295 for a basic package. However, the total cost depends on several factors:
Base Package Pricing:
- 3-hour rental: $2,295 to $3,500 (most popular choice)
- 4-hour rental: $2,500 to $4,000
- Each additional hour: $300 to $600 per hour
Larger markets like San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles may run higher due to travel distance, venue complexity, and demand. Smaller markets or off-peak dates might cost less.
What Affects Your Final Glam Booth Price
1. Rental Duration
Most companies require a minimum of 3 hours. This includes approximately 1 hour of setup time before your event starts, giving you about 2 to 2.5 hours of active booth time with guests. Make sure you clarify what “active booth time” means, as some companies include setup in the total hours, which actually reduces guest time.
2. Travel and Location Fees
If your venue is more than 20 to 25 miles from the photo booth company, expect travel fees ranging from $50 to $300 depending on distance. Asking if the company has worked at your specific venue before can save you from surprise fees, as experienced vendors often have pricing already figured out for popular locations.
3. Customization and Add-Ons
- Custom backdrops: $100 to $400
- Branded photo strips (with names, dates, logos): $30 to $50
- GIF and boomerang capabilities: $50 to $200
- Social media sharing station: $50 to $250
- Premium print sizes (4×6 or 5×7): $0 to $100 (sometimes included)
4. Digital Gallery and Sharing
Most modern glam booths include an online photo gallery you and your guests can access the day after the event. This typically comes with unlimited digital downloads for guests to share on social media and email.
5. Attendant Fees
Professional glam photo booth rentals almost always include an on-site attendant for the duration of the rental. This person manages the technical setup, helps guests through the experience, prints photos, and troubleshoots any issues. Attendants are typically included in the base price, but confirm this before booking.
Pro tip: Always ask for a detailed quote that breaks down what is included versus what costs extra. This prevents sticker shock at the end.
Space and Setup Requirements: Will It Fit in Your Venue?
One of the biggest questions first-time bookers have is whether their venue has enough space. The good news? Glam booths are relatively compact compared to other booth types.
Minimum Space Requirements
Standard glam booth floor area: 8 feet by 8 feet (64 square feet minimum)
Ideal space: 9 feet by 9 feet or 10 feet by 10 feet (to allow comfortable guest flow around the booth and props)
Ceiling height: Minimum 8 to 8.5 feet of clearance
If your booth is squeezed into a tight space, guests may feel rushed or uncomfortable, which affects the overall experience. More space is always better, so prioritize placement in an open area where the booth feels like an event attraction rather than an afterthought.
Location Placement Tips
Good locations:
- Near the cocktail area (guests naturally gravitate here during transitions)
- Against a wall or corner (creates a clear “photo booth zone”)
- Visible but not blocking exits, bathrooms, or food stations
- Away from direct sunlight or harsh overhead lighting (which creates unflattering shadows)
Avoid these placements:
- In front of windows (causes lighting issues and reflections)
- In doorways or blocking traffic flow
- Directly under recessed or hanging lights (creates harsh shadows on faces)
- In narrow hallways or enclosed spaces (feels claustrophobic and limits guest access)
Power and Internet Requirements
Before your event, make sure your venue can provide:
Electrical: One dedicated 15 or 20-amp power outlet within 10 to 15 feet of the booth setup area (110V, 3-prong outlet, standard US power).
Internet: Minimum 1 Mbps connection (faster is better for instant sharing and online gallery uploads). Some companies provide a mobile hotspot as backup, but strong WiFi ensures guests can instantly share photos via text, email, or QR code.
If your venue doesn’t have adequate power nearby, some companies charge a $50 fee to provide a power generator.
The Glam Photo Booth Experience: What Happens When Guests Actually Use It?
This is the part that excites most event planners and guests. Here is the real day-of experience step by step.
Guest Experience (The Red Carpet Moment)
Step 1: Approach and Check-In
Guests walk up to the booth and are greeted by the on-site attendant. There is no sign up or waiting list required. It is a drop-in experience, so guests participate whenever they feel like it.
Step 2: Live Screen Preview
Before taking the photo, guests see themselves on a live screen preview. This gives them a chance to adjust their pose, fix their hair, check their teeth, and ensure they look perfect. This is the magic of the glam booth—guests feel empowered and can make real-time adjustments.
Step 3: Countdown and Capture
The attendant gives a verbal countdown (usually 3 seconds), and the professional DSLR camera captures the shot. The lighting is flattering, the camera angle is professional, and the beauty filters (which smooth skin and enhance features without looking fake) kick in automatically.
Step 4: Instant Print (or Digital Option)
Within 10 seconds, a crisp, gallery-quality black and white photo prints out. Guests receive their photo immediately—a tangible keepsake they can hold, frame, or take home. Digital copies are also available for social sharing.
Step 5: Props and Custom Overlays (Optional)
Some glam booth packages include styled props like faux fur wraps, vintage sunglasses, or branded signs. Guests can take a second photo with props for variety.
Typical Engagement Duration
Most guests spend 2 to 5 minutes at the booth per visit. Some return multiple times if they have different friends or family members. Over the course of a 3-hour event with 75 to 150 guests, expect the booth to stay fairly busy, especially during cocktail hour and when the main reception activities have natural lulls.
Common Glam Photo Booth FAQs (Answered)
Do I Need to Book Guests Ahead of Time or Reserve Spots?
No. Glam booths operate on a drop-in basis. Guests simply approach the booth whenever they want and participate. There is no advance signup or reservation system needed, which keeps the experience spontaneous and fun.
What if Guests Are Shy or Uncomfortable Being Photographed?
This is a common concern, but here is what makes glam booths different: the live screen preview and flattering lighting make guests feel confident. Many people who typically avoid photos find themselves enjoying the glam booth experience because they see themselves looking genuinely good in real-time. That said, not every guest will participate, and that is okay. Typically 50 to 70 percent of guests use the booth depending on the event vibe.
Can Groups Take Photos Together or Is It Individual Only?
This depends on your booth configuration and your company’s policies. Some glam booths allow 1 to 3 people per shot, while others are designed for individual portraits. Confirm this with your photo booth vendor when booking. If group photos are important to your event, let them know so they can customize the experience accordingly.
What About Printing? How Many Prints Can Guests Take Home?
Most glam photo booth packages include unlimited prints. Guests can take as many copies as they want—whether it is one, five, or ten prints of the same photo. Some companies limit it to encourage variety (guests may want different printed shots with different people or props), but unlimited printing is increasingly standard.
Can Photos Be Customized With Names, Dates, or Logos?
Absolutely. This is one of the most popular upgrades for weddings and corporate events. You can add:
- The couple’s names and wedding date
- Your company logo and event name
- Custom branded borders or designs
- QR codes linking to your event website or social media
This customization typically adds $30 to $100 to your total cost but makes the photos feel more personalized and professional.
What Time Should I Have the Booth Set Up?
Plan for the booth to arrive 1 to 1.5 hours before your event officially starts. Setup includes positioning the booth, testing lighting and cameras, ensuring the printer works, and getting the attendant oriented to the space. If you have a tight timeline, let your vendor know in advance so they can plan accordingly.
What Happens If the Booth Breaks Down During My Event?
Reputable glam photo booth companies carry backup equipment and technical expertise to handle issues quickly. Most problems (printer jams, connectivity issues, lighting adjustments) are resolved within 5 to 10 minutes. Discuss your company’s contingency plan before the event to understand their backup procedures.
Can the Glam Booth Work Outdoors?
Yes, but with caveats. Outdoor setups require:
- Adequate shelter (covered porch, tent, or pavilion) to protect the equipment from weather
- A minimum clearance of 9 feet by 9 feet by 9 feet
- Protection from direct sunlight and strong wind
- A solid, level surface (not grass or uneven ground)
Some outdoor venues require the photo booth company to provide a canopy tent and/or portable power generator, which may add $150 to $250 to your cost.
What If I Have Limited WiFi at My Venue?
You can still have a glam booth experience. The booth will print photos just fine without WiFi. However, if you want instant digital sharing (guests texting themselves photos, uploading to social media, or accessing the online gallery), strong WiFi is important. Most companies provide a mobile hotspot as a backup, ensuring guests can share even if venue WiFi is weak. Confirm this backup plan before booking.
Can I Book the Booth on Standby (Set Up Early But Not “Active” Until Later)?
Some companies allow this, but many charge an “idle fee” when the booth is set up but not actively being used by guests. If you want the booth ready during cocktail hour but guests won’t use it until later in the evening, discuss idle fee policies upfront to avoid surprises.
How Do I Get Access to All the Photos After the Event?
Guests receive digital copies on-site during the event (via email, text, or QR code download). Additionally, all event photos are typically compiled into a private online gallery that you and your guests can access the day after the event. You’ll receive a secure link to download high-resolution versions, which you can save, print, or repurpose for thank-you cards or event recap posts.
Questions to Ask Your Photo Booth Company Before Booking
Before you commit to a glam photo booth rental, make sure you ask these essential questions:
- “Is your date available?” – Confirm availability first before discussing other details.
- “How many hours of actual active booth time are included?” – Clarify whether the setup hour is included in your total rental time or separate.
- “Have you worked at my specific venue before?” – Experienced vendors know the space and potential setup challenges, which prevents day-of surprises.
- “What is included in the base price and what costs extra?” – Get a detailed breakdown of base package vs. add-ons. If there are different packages, make sure to thoroughly compare.
- “Will an attendant be on-site the entire time?” – Confirm an experienced attendant will be present to manage the booth and guide guests throughout the event.
- “What backup equipment do you have if something breaks?” – Understand their contingency plans.
- “What are your travel fees, if any?” – Avoid surprise charges by knowing the distance and mileage fees upfront if there are any.
- “Can I customize photos with names, dates, or logos?” – Confirm customization options and associated costs.
- “What WiFi and power do I need to provide?” – Know your venue’s requirements before the event.
- “What is your cancellation policy?” – Understand what happens if you need to reschedule or cancel.
Key Takeaways
- Pricing Reality: Glam photo booth rentals typically start at $2,295 for a 3-hour package, with additional costs for customization, travel, and upgrades.
- Space Planning: You need a minimum of 8×8 feet, with ideal placement in an open, accessible area that doesn’t block guest flow.
- Setup Time: Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for setup before your event begins.
- Guest Experience: Glam booths operate on a drop-in basis with instant printing, so guests simply walk up and enjoy the experience with zero friction.
- Customization: Make photos uniquely yours by adding names, dates, logos, or themed elements (typically $30 to $100 extra).
- Digital Access: All photos are compiled into a private online gallery for guests to download and share the day after your event.
- Attendant Support: Professional attendants are included to guide guests and manage technical issues, so the experience runs smoothly.
Is a Glam Photo Booth Right for Your Event?
A glam photo booth works best when you want:
- A sophisticated, timeless entertainment option that matches an upscale event vibe
- Professional-quality keepsakes guests actually want to keep or frame
- Something that naturally encourages guest interaction and conversation
- Instant gratification (guests walk away with photos in their hands)
If your event has 50+ guests, a defined budget for entertainment, and a venue that can accommodate an 8×8 space with power and WiFi, a glam photo booth is likely worth the investment.
Ready to book a Glam Photo Booth for your event? Contact One, Two, Smile! Photobooth for a custom quote.
At One, Two, Smile! Photobooth, customization isn’t an add-on, it’s the foundation. We design every setup around your venue’s architecture, your color palette, your overall vision. From backdrop selection to prop curation to on-site attendants who keep everything running seamlessly, we’re here to make sure your photo booth looks and feels exactly right.
Planning a wedding at The Majestic Downtown, Carondelet House, Lombardi House, Millwick, The Oviatt, or another incredible Los Angeles venue? Let’s talk about creating a photo booth experience that fits your celebration perfectly.
Ready to get started? Reach out today and let’s make your LA wedding unforgettable—one photo strip at a time.
Call us at (510) 463-4972 or contact us today to explore a smarter photo booth strategy for your next Los Angeles event.
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