Planning an event means making dozens of decisions, and one of the most common questions we hear is how much is a photo booth rental? In most cases, professional photo booth rentals range from $900 to $2,000, depending on the booth type, rental time, features, and service level. Simple digital booths cost less, while premium booths with prints, attendants, and customization cost more.
At Baltimore Sound Entertainment, we’ve provided professional photo booths for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations throughout Maryland. This guide breaks down real-world pricing so you can budget confidently and choose the right option for your event.
How Much Is a Photo Booth Rental on Average?
Most professional photo booth rentals cost between $1,000 and $1,600 for a standard 3-hour event. This price usually includes professional setup and breakdown, the photo booth equipment, and an on-site attendant to help guests and keep the booth running smoothly.
Lower-priced options often involve digital-only booths, shorter rental times, or fewer customization options. Higher-priced packages typically include unlimited prints, premium backdrops, custom photo designs, and more advanced booth technology. When comparing quotes, understanding what’s included matters more than focusing on the base price alone.
How Much Does a Photo Booth Cost by Booth Type?
Different booth styles come with different price points, features, and guest experiences. The booth type you choose plays a major role in your overall budget because each option requires different equipment, setup time, and staffing.
Below is a breakdown of the most common photo booth types and what you can expect to pay.
Open-Air Photo Booths
Open-air photo booths are the most popular and budget-friendly option. They typically cost $900–$1,500 depending on rental length and included features.
These booths use a camera, lighting, and backdrop in an open space, making them ideal for group photos. They fit easily into most venues and work well for weddings, corporate events, and private parties. Open-air booths balance affordability, flexibility, and high photo quality.
Mirror Photo Booths
Mirror photo booths usually range from $1,200–$1,900+. They feature a full-length touchscreen mirror with animations and interactive prompts.
Because mirror booths use custom software, larger displays, and premium design elements, they require more setup time and higher-end equipment. They’re often chosen for upscale weddings and formal events where visual impact matters.
360 Video Booths
360 video booths are one of the higher-priced options, typically costing $1,300–$2,000 or more. Instead of photos, these booths capture short slow-motion video clips as guests stand on a platform.
The pricing reflects specialized hardware, lighting, video processing, and additional staff needed to operate safely. These booths are popular for brand activations and social-media-focused events.
Enclosed Photo Booths
Enclosed photo booths usually cost $1,000–$1,700 depending on size and print options. They offer a traditional, private booth experience where guests sit inside the booth.
These booths take up more space and require careful placement within the venue. While less common today, they’re still popular for guests who prefer privacy or a classic photo booth feel.
Each booth style requires different technology, staffing, and setup time, which directly affects pricing. Mirror and 360 booths generally cost more due to interactive software and advanced equipment. Open-air booths remain the most popular choice because they deliver strong guest engagement while keeping costs and logistics manageable.
What Affects Photo Booth Rental Rates the Most?
Several factors influence final pricing beyond just the number of hours booked. Understanding these details helps you compare quotes accurately and avoid surprises later.
Booth Style and Technology
More advanced booths cost more to operate. Mirror booths, 360 video booths, and premium open-air setups require higher-end equipment, specialized software, and additional setup time, which increases overall pricing.
Rental Duration
Most companies have minimum rental times, usually two to four hours. Longer bookings may reduce the per-hour cost, while shorter events often have a higher hourly rate because setup and staffing costs remain the same.
Print vs Digital Delivery
Printing adds cost due to paper, ink, printers, and on-site management. Digital-only booths are typically more affordable, while unlimited print packages increase pricing but provide physical keepsakes for guests.
Custom Branding and Overlays
Custom photo designs, logos, and event branding require additional design time. These upgrades are common for weddings and corporate events and can add value, but they also raise the final price.
Venue Access and Travel Distance
Venues with limited access, long load-ins, or strict timing requirements can affect pricing. Travel distance outside a standard service area may also add fees, especially for early setup or late breakdown.
Photo booth rental rates also vary by region. Busy metro areas and peak seasons typically cost more due to higher demand. At Baltimore Sound Entertainment, we price transparently so clients know exactly what’s included and can plan with confidence.
What’s Included in a Typical Photo Booth Rental Cost?
A professional photo booth rental cost usually includes more than just the booth itself. Behind-the-scenes services and support are what keep the experience smooth, reliable, and stress-free during your event.
Setup and Breakdown
Professional providers handle all setup and teardown. This ensures the booth is positioned correctly, tested, and ready before guests arrive, then safely removed after the event without disrupting your timeline.
Trained Booth Attendant
Most rentals include a trained attendant to manage the booth. They assist guests, restock supplies, troubleshoot issues, and keep lines moving so the booth stays fun and efficient.
Professional Lighting and Camera
High-quality photos require proper lighting and cameras. Professional setups use studio lighting and cameras designed for event environments, producing consistent results in different venue conditions.
Digital Gallery or Download Access
Guests typically receive digital access to their photos. This may include a live gallery, text or email sharing during the event, or a downloadable gallery afterward for easy sharing and storage.
Basic Props and Accessories
Standard props are usually included at no extra cost. These add personality and encourage guest participation without overwhelming the booth area.
Optional Premium Add-Ons
Higher-tier packages may include unlimited prints, luxury backdrops, keepsake albums, and custom photo designs. These upgrades enhance the guest experience but can increase overall pricing.
Always confirm exactly what’s included before booking so you can compare packages accurately and avoid unexpected add-ons.
How Does Photo Booth Equipment Impact Pricing?
The quality of photo booth equipment directly affects both the cost and reliability of the experience. Higher-end equipment costs more to operate, but it delivers better image quality and fewer technical problems during busy events.
Professional-Grade Equipment
High-end photo booth setups typically include:
- DSLR cameras for sharper, professional photos
- Studio lighting for consistent results in any venue
- Commercial photo printers built for high-volume use
- Touchscreen interfaces for easy guest interaction
- Sturdy booth frames designed for stability and safety
This level of equipment performs reliably during high-traffic events and supports faster photo processing.
Entry-Level Equipment
Lower-cost booths often rely on:
- Tablets or consumer cameras
- Basic or built-in lighting
- Lightweight frames
These setups can work for smaller, casual events, but they are more likely to slow down or experience issues when guest volume is high.
Overall, investing in professional equipment increases reliability, photo quality, and guest satisfaction all factors that directly influence pricing.
How Much Should you Budget for a Corporate Event Photo Booth?
A corporate event photo booth typically costs $1,500 to $2,500+ or more, depending on the level of customization and technology required. These events often prioritize branding, professionalism, and measurable results.
Branding and Custom Design
Corporate events usually include custom-branded photo overlays, logos, and messaging. These designs help reinforce brand identity and require additional design time, which increases overall pricing.
Lead Capture and Guest Data
Many corporate booths offer email or lead capture features. Guests can receive photos digitally while companies collect contact information for follow-up marketing, adding value beyond corporate entertainment.
Branded Backdrops and Presentation
Branded backdrops and step-and-repeat designs create a polished, professional look. These elements elevate the booth’s appearance and align it with the company’s branding goals.
Analytics and Reporting
Some corporate event photo booths provide analytics such as photo counts, shares, and engagement metrics. These insights help measure event success and are often included in higher-tier packages.
Because these features support marketing objectives and brand exposure, corporate event pricing is typically higher than private parties, but the return on investment is often greater.
How Can You Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality?
You don’t need the most expensive package to get great results. Smart planning makes a big difference.
Ways to save include:
- Booking fewer hours during peak moments
- Choosing digital sharing instead of prints
- Using standard backdrops
- Bundling services with one vendor
Many Baltimore Sound Entertainment clients bundle photo booths with lighting, entertainment, or a DJ in Maryland to streamline planning and reduce total costs.
How Do You Choose the Right Photo Booth for Your Event?
The best booth depends on your goals, not trends. Start by thinking about your guests, your venue layout, and how you want people to interact with the booth throughout the event.
Consider:
- Guest count and how busy the booth may get
- Available space and ceiling height
- Print vs digital preferences for your guests
- Budget flexibility and must-have features
A reliable photo booth machine should enhance the event flow, not interrupt it. Professional equipment, backup systems, and trained staff ensure smooth operation, consistent photo quality, and a stress-free experience from start to finish.
Final Thoughts on Photo Booth Pricing
When people ask about photo booth cost, they’re really asking about value. A great booth creates memories, encourages interaction, and adds energy to your event.
Most professional, full-service rentals fall between $1,000 and $2,000, depending on features and level of customization. Focus on reliability, experience, and what’s included, not just the lowest number.
Baltimore Sound Entertainment has helped thousands of clients create unforgettable events across Maryland. If you want honest guidance and professional service, we’re always happy to help you choose the right setup for your celebration.
FAQs About Photo Booth Prices
How much does a photo booth cost for a wedding?
Wedding photo booth rentals typically range from $1,000 to $1,800. Pricing depends on hours, prints, customization, and whether an attendant is included. Most couples book 3–4 hours to cover peak reception time.
Why do photo booth rental prices vary so much?
Pricing varies due to equipment quality, staffing, customization, and service level. A lower quote may exclude prints, attendants, or backups, while higher-priced options include full-service support.
Do photo booth rental rates include setup time?
Yes, professional rentals include setup and breakdown time. Your rental hours typically reflect guest usage only, not vendor preparation.
Does a photo booth rental include props?
Most standard packages include basic props. Premium or themed props may cost extra depending on the provider.
Can I customize photo booth photos?
Yes, most professional providers offer custom overlays. Names, dates, logos, and branding are common upgrades.
When should I book a photo booth?
Book 6–12 months in advance for weddings and peak seasons. Corporate events often book sooner due to branding needs and venue coordination.
