Martha Hegley ‘16
EE Lifestyle Editor
The end of the school year is an exciting and memorable time for everyone. It is important to capture every moment. One of the rising trends that has made this possible is a portable photo booth station. Decked out with hats, props, and costumes, this is a perfect way to get your friends together for an end of the year celebration.
With this, however, comes a large price tag. In order to preserve your memories without emptying your pockets, set up your very own DIY photo booth station.
STEP 1: Camera
For this step you have two options. If you own a digital camera and a tripod, you can purchase a remote shutter release online for as low as $5. This allows you to take the pictures yourself with just the click of a button. Set your camera on your tripod and you are ready to go. This will give you and your friends the full photo booth feel.
Don’t have a camera? Many department stores sell disposable cameras, also for around $5, that take on average 30 photos. Take turns snapping pictures of one another in front of the backdrop. Develop the photos and voilà.
STEP 2: Backdrop
This is the ideal way to show your creative side. Find a blank wall in your house and get creative. Craft stores sell fabrics in all different patterns and designs that you can purchase very inexpensively. You can even tape plastic table cloths or wrapping paper to your wall. Hang some balloons, banners, and other decorations to make the backdrop unique. Yahoo states that “placement of your booth within your event is crucial. You want it to feel central in order to create the excitement and energy around it.” Remember: make it fun but don’t over decorate. This will take away from the people in the photos. A little goes a long way.
STEP 3: Props
Take a trip to your local dollar store or Party City and get an abundance of fun props to choose from. Hats, masks, and scarves are only the beginning. Your prop table should be filled with cute, goofy items that your friends can pick from. These will give your photos a whimsical feel that will inspire an upbeat energy in everyone. In order to make the most of your budget “source vintage props from charity shops, car boot sales and online” (hiphiphorray.com). If you don’t want to buy or make any props, reusing old costumes is an excellent way to stay cost and time efficient. Check your basement for old Halloween items, and have all of your friends bring some as well.
STEP 4: Music
This is the final step in the process. The music is what is going to tie everything together. Upbeat songs with high energy work best to keep everyone in a positive mood the whole time. Plus, ask your friends what songs they want on the playlist. Then consult your favorite music websites, such as spotify.com or 8tracks.com.
So, whether you are graduating or you are just looking for a fun way to close out the school year, DIY photo booths will create a lasting memory without leaving you broke.