How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Party Photo Booth in the UK

Throwing a party soon and thinking about adding that extra spark? Well, hiring a photo booth can be just the thing you need to create lasting memories for you and your guests. From weddings to corporate events, photo booths have become increasingly popular in the UK, but what does it actually cost to hire one? Let’s dive in and find out how much a party photo booth hire might set you back, along with tips to get the most out of it.

Why Are Photo Booths So Popular?

When you think of a party, what comes to mind? Fun, laughter, and of course, photos! Today’s photo booths are more than just a simple camera in a box. They offer interactive experiences, instant prints, and social media sharing options that get people talking and engaging. According to Eventbrite, interactive party experiences, including photo booths, have surged in popularity by 35% over the past five years, making them a must-have for many types of events.

But what about the costs involved? Let’s break it down.

Factors That Influence Photo Booth Hire Costs

Before you start looking for the best deals, it’s important to understand what influences the cost of hiring a party photo booth in the UK. Prices can vary depending on:

Type of photo booth
Traditional, enclosed booths tend to cost more than open-air ones because they provide a more private space for guests. Then there are the magic mirrors, which offer a more premium feel.
Duration of hire
Most companies offer packages for a set number of hours. The longer you want the booth, the more you can expect to pay. It’s usually around £200 for two hours and can go up to £500 for a full-day hire.
Customization options
Want custom props, branded prints, or a themed backdrop? These extras can increase the price. Most companies charge an additional £50 to £100 for these add-ons.
Location
Photo booth providers typically cover a specific area for free, but if your event is outside their coverage zone, you may be charged for travel expenses. This can range from £20 to £75 depending on the distance.
Additional services
Some companies provide extra features such as GIFs, boomerangs, or green screen backgrounds, which come at a cost. Adding these can increase your total by another £50 to £150.

Average Costs for Party Photo Booth Hire in the UK

So, how much should you expect to pay? On average a party photo booth hire cost in the UK you can expect to spend anywhere between £250 and £450 for a standard package, which includes 3 to 4 hours of booth time, unlimited prints, props, and an attendant to ensure everything runs smoothly.

However, if you want more premium features, like video booths or 360-degree cameras, the price can go up to £700 or even higher for high-end options. If you’re planning a more elaborate event, these premium choices could be worth the investment.

Here’s a quick rundown of typical costs:

Standard photo booth (3 hours): £250 — £350
Magic mirror (3 hours): £350 — £500
Premium options (360 cameras, video booths): £500 — £700+

Keep in mind, these prices are averages and could vary depending on the company, time of year, and your location.

How to Get the Best Deal on a Photo Booth Hire

No one wants to spend more than they have to, and there are a few ways to get more bang for your buck:

Book in advance
The earlier you book, the better the chances of securing a good price. Many companies offer discounts for early bookings.
Negotiate
Some companies are open to negotiation, especially if your event is during an off-peak season or on a weekday. Don’t be afraid to ask for discounts or additional services thrown in.
Bundle services
If the company offers other party services, such as DJ hire or event photography, you may be able to bundle and save. This could potentially knock off 10–15% of the total cost.

Why Invest in a Photo Booth for Your Party?

Apart from being a total crowd-pleaser, photo booths offer many benefits:

Interactive experience: Guests can personalize their photos with fun props and digital effects.
Instant mementos: People love having a takeaway from the event, and the prints make for perfect keepsakes.
Branding opportunities: For corporate events, photo booths can offer an additional layer of promotion with customized prints featuring your company’s logo.

Why People Are Loving the Magic Mirror

The magic mirror booth has been a huge hit in the UK recently, combining elegance with interactive features. Guests can pose in front of a mirror, see themselves in real time, and customize the photo with on-screen graffiti or animations before the picture is printed.

Interactive touch screen
On-screen signing
Elegant setup with LED lights

What to Expect When Hiring a Photo Booth

Hiring a photo booth is generally a straightforward process, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

Set-up time
Most providers will arrive an hour before the event to set everything up. Make sure you have space allocated for them to set up comfortably.
Technical support
Many packages include an attendant to assist with the booth during the event. This ensures everything runs smoothly and that your guests are happy with their photos.
What’s included
Always check the fine print. Some companies offer unlimited prints, while others may limit how many you can print during the hire period.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re wondering whether hiring a photo booth is worth the cost, just think about the impact it can have on your party. A photo booth adds an element of fun and engagement that few other entertainment options can provide. Plus, it leaves guests with personalized souvenirs they’ll treasure long after the party’s over.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a photo booth for your event is an investment in fun, interaction, and long-lasting memories. While the cost may vary, there are plenty of options to suit all types of events and budgets. By knowing what to look for and planning ahead, you can ensure you get the best value for your money.

After all, what’s better than a party filled with smiles, laughter, and some fantastic photos to keep forever? So go on, make your next event one for the history books!