25 DIY Photo Booth Ideas for Your Wedding

Bride and groom kissing on velvet green couch surrounded by flowers and greenery — Photo by Catherine Guidry Photography

Since your wedding day will come and go, the photos will be one of the only tangible reminders of your marital celebration. While your professional photographer will surely capture all of the big-day moments you’ll always want to remember, you’ll have to wait a few weeks before the prints are available to download and share. Plus, because these vendors generally have a knack of going under the radar to capture candid shots, the experience doesn’t necessarily engage your attendees. To supplement these high-quality visuals with another fun wedding photo op that delivers instantaneous results, consider adding a photo booth to your affair.

Photo booths encourage your invitees to interact with one another, helping to boost the uplifting, social atmosphere and enhance the overall guest experience. Taking a pause to strike a pose will also give friends and family a break from the dance floor, or it can function as an alternative activity for those who feel uncomfortable dancing. And because photo booths deliver results in real time, your attendees will be able to take the visual memento home with them as a favor.

While photo booths are a hit at many weddings, renting one comes with a considerable price tag: On average, these rentals cost $700, which can escalate depending on the number of hours, the location of the event, and any other additional features. If you don’t want to forgo this interactive experience, but the rental cost exceeds your budget, you can always create your own photo station. To pull off this DIY project, all you’ll need is a well-lit backdrop, complete with a decorative display that coincides with your aesthetic, for guests to pose in front of. Then, your loved ones can use their phone cameras to photograph the shot, or you can supply disposable cameras, Polaroid cameras, or a professional to document these mini shoots.

Wondering how to create a visually appealing spot for your DIY photo booth? Whether you build your own flower wall or you adorn an architecturally stunning corner of your venue with string lights, there are so many ways to elevate this detail. To ensure your guests have a beautiful frame for their shot (without needing to spend hundreds of dollars), here are some of the best DIY photo booth ideas for your wedding.

01 of 25

Incorporate a Faux Flower Wall

Flower wall with pink and red roses and gold sign with couple's last name — Photo by The Bold Americana

Fully-fledged flower walls make a huge visual impact for photo booths, but the cost of having a florist create one can run pretty high. For a more affordable option, take on the project yourself. When this bride and groom tied the knot in their disco-inspired nuptials in Palm Springs, the bride's father and brother constructed a DIY wall with faux floral panels and signage, resulting in a lush, vibrant backdrop for photos. You can also follow suit, engulfing foam or a plywood board in faux florals to produce a fresh-from-the-garden feel.

02 of 25

Convert a Caravan

Light pink caravan photo booth decorated with neon sign, lounge furniture, and greenery — Photo by Paige Vaughn Photo

If you're looking for an effortlessly cool and retro structure, turn back the clock by converting an old van into a DIY photo booth. While you can enlist one from a professional rental company (such as this one from Vannagram & Co.), you can save money by borrowing a vehicle and decking out the interior and exterior with ornaments. For instance, this couple's transformed caravan for their design-oriented wedding in Austin featured a light-up sign, hanging greenery, and lounge furniture.

03 of 25

Pose in a Residential Setting

Wooden Doors on Boxwood Wall With Pink Flowers and Eucalyptus Over the Door — Photo by Jana Williams

Residential styling has become a mainstay in wedding décor. In addition to infusing your wedding with charm, incorporating interior decorating into your affair via your DIY photo booth will make guests feel at home. If you or someone you know is skilled at woodwork, consider framing your station with quaint wooden doors. At this colorful Santa Barbara bash, the father of the bride built handmade doors—and he even carved the couple's names into the wood. Complete with greenery and pink flowers by Alina Fiore, it provided the ultimate spot to take pictures.

04 of 25

Integrate Draped Linens

Pale Pink Draped Curtains Decorated With Greenery and Gauzy White Backdrop — Photo by Laura Memory Photography & Videography

Draped linens will compose the dreamiest setup for snaps. Buy a few yards of fabric and have your planner or another point person drape the material from the ceiling. This gauzy backdrop and pastel pink curtains—which appeared at this minimalist wedding in Raleigh, featuring day-of coordination by Southern Oak Events and floral design by The English Garden—is full of whimsy.

05 of 25

Create a Lounge

Photo booth lounge area with couch, lighting, tables, and florals — Photo by Paris Tews

Perfect for a selfie station or the backdrop of a photo booth, a plush lounge area will add a chic, luxe feel to images. Add furniture, rugs, lighting, and any other decorative extras to set the mood for dynamic photos that allow guests to interact with (or relax in) the environment. For an even more budget-friendly, personalized idea, use some of the items from your own home.

06 of 25

Opt for a Colorful Palette

Bride in purple dress smiling in front of purple backdrop with balloons, flowers, and a neon sign — Photo by Stanlo Photography

To bring a pop of color to your photos, cover the backdrop in splashy shades; the vivid tones will stand out in the documented photographs and will bring a playful flair to the keepsakes. Whatever hue your choose, make sure it coordinates with your theme, like this wall of balloons and blooms in various purple shades that complemented the glamorous purple-themed function in Atlanta, with flowers by Akeem Clayton Designs and design by Eliana Baucicault with ellyB Events.

07 of 25

Suspend a Neon Sign

Bride in Off-the-Shoulder Ball Gown Looking Over Shoulder in Front of Flower Wall With Neon Sign — Photo by Asia Pimentel Photography

Personalize your DIY photo booth with a custom neon sign. Whether you illuminate your names (like this couple did at their timeless celebration in the Dominican Republic, including flowers by Casa Delirio and planning and design by Claire Durán Weddings & Events), your favorite line of poetry, symbolic song lyrics, or a catchphrase that speaks to your personality and your union, this addition will surely stand out in every photo. Just be mindful of whether the sign needs an outlet, and make sure that you secure the fragile piece correctly and safely.

08 of 25

Decorate With Disco Balls

Disco Sculpture against whitewashed brick wall and window — Photo by Amber Gress Photography

Disco balls are a glitzy addition to any DIY photo booth, especially for glamorous nuptials or '70s-inspired celebrations. These sequined spheres will catch the light in just the right way, bringing a sparkle to the party and the pictures. Build a display of disco balls in different shapes and sizes, like this installation that Jove Meyer set up at this foodie affair in Brooklyn, to spotlight depth and dimension.

09 of 25

Showcase Your Shared Interests

music-inspired neon sign with colorful streamers and flowers — Photo by Katelyn James

Your DIY photo wall can also feature signage that captures your personality and mutual interests. For example, this couple's backdrop at their colorful soirée in Austin included an aqua-colored neon sign that read, "For eva eva," a nod to OutKast's "Ms. Jackson," which showcased their love of music. The couple, along with planning by Much Ado Austin and floral design by Blumen Floral Co., also heightened the space and reinforced their aesthetic with multicolored streamers and floral arrangements.

10 of 25

Highlight Pivotal Details

DIY welcome sign with origami and floral arrangements — Photo by Sean Thomas Photography

What better canvas for photos than one that pays homage to you and your future spouse? With a customized backdrop emblazoned with wedding details, guests will never rifle through the pictures, wondering when they were taken. Have the backdrop custom-made to your liking, or, for the ultimate cost-effective option, paint a DIY photo booth backdrop (like this handmade structure, which the bride and groom constructed for their organic garden party in San Diego). In addition to highlighting their names, their elevated display included tributes to their relationship: Paper cranes reflected their engagement, and a Biblical verse signified their family motto.

11 of 25

Prioritize a Focal Floral Moment

velvet green couch surrounded by flowers and greenery — Photo by Catherine Guidry Photography

To give your DIY photo booth a garden-inspired vibe, work with your florist to compose a floral-filled backdrop—or express your creativity by going faux. This duo's designated photo area at their romantic fête in New Orleans, with floral design by Antigua Floral, featured an emerald green velvet couch (so guests can get cozy while they pose) surrounded by trailing greenery and soft roses. A collection of candles at the foot of the furniture also aided in the ethereal feel of the space.

12 of 25

Forgo Tradition

Neon orange welcome sign with flower garlands — Photo by Brogen Jessup

Completely defy expectations by embracing a nontraditional installation for this interactive station. At this retro wedding in San Diego, a bright orange sign from Peanut Press Creative with a configuration and a message that encouraged guests to have fun made for a quirky backdrop full of personality and individuality. The unique color combination and sculptural art also went against the norm.

13 of 25

Repurpose Your Ceremony Arch

outdoor photo booth with repurposed pink ceremony arch overlooking skyline — Photo by Larisa Shorina

If you're hoping to save money without sacrificing style, repurpose a standout décor moment from your ceremony: your arch. Instead of letting this focal decoration go to waste, breathe new life into the structure by embedding it into your DIY photo booth. Take cues from this bride and groom, who stationed their installation from ZCreateDesign in front of the New York City skyline for their glamorous wedding, creating a magical scene. No matter where you set up your arch, though, your guests will be thrilled to take their picture in front of such a pivotal part of the festivities.

14 of 25

Embrace Your New Last Name

Neon sign that says "Can you feel the Grubbs tonight?" on pink and orange print wall above printed red couch — Photo by Hannah Baldwin Photography

We've already discussed that neon signs are an excellent add-on to include in your DIY photo booth, but to really up the ante, incorporate the use of play-on words, too. For example, this bride and groom at their maximalist disco wedding used their light-up letters from Sketch & Etch Neon to reference their shared last name and toast to their new marriage, swapping "love" for "Grubbs" in Elton John's lyric, "Can you feel the love tonight?"

15 of 25

Don’t Forget Props

Wedding Photo Booth Props With Wooden Signs, Hats, Masks, and More — Photo by Silent Capture

Let's not forget about props, either. Turn any space into a photo booth with decorative items to wear or hold, whether it's funky hats or custom signs (like the ones shown at this Roaring Twenties-inspired affair on Long Island), which will inspire guests to bring out their silly sides for the sake of the pictures. You can take the DIY approach by hitting up the craft store and making your own paper cut-outs, too.

16 of 25

Focus on the Photo

Photo Booth Photo of Three Women in Fancy Attire — Photo by Ben Smith

While an intentionally decorated backdrop is definitely on-theme, at the end of the day, your guests really want a nice photo to take back with them. This photo station by Mirmir at the coupe's tasteful wedding in Napa Valley exhibited a no-frills background, so the subjects themselves were the main focus. Plus, skipping décor means you'll have extra cash to store or spend on other high-priority items.

17 of 25

Take Disposable Snaps

White, Pink, and Green Flower Decor Next to Disposable Cameras on Wooden Table With Sign That Reads "Grab a Camera!" — Photo by Jeremy Chou

For the most budget-friendly alternative, go old-school with disposable cameras. Make them available to guests by setting them on tables, like this setup arranged by Baku Events at this destination wedding in Mexico (or even designate a separate corner near a fun backdrop). Then, friends and family can snap pictures of one another. After the wedding, you can develop the film and experience the fun all over again.

18 of 25

Try Polaroids

Wooden Shelf With Two White Polaroid Cameras, a Chalkboard Sign, and a Rustic Book With Two Pens — Photo by Annaleisa Veasey

Another comparable option? Stock a station with Polaroid cameras. Instead of waiting until after the wedding to enjoy the photos, guests will be able to receive a physical print right then and there. Instant photos will be great souvenirs for friends and family to take home with them, or your crew can leave the pictures for you as a way to sign your guest book (like this pair did at their rustic gathering in Colorado with a book from Scribble and Jot). Either way, this is a fun method to get quick shots of your guests in action that they can reflect on after the wedding.

19 of 25

Add Marquee Lights

Caravan photo booth decorated with streamers and marquee lights — Photo by Sasithon Photography

You've got the booth, the backdrop, and the props. But how do you get people there? Without the right signage, your guests may not even be aware that you have a designated photo-op spot. Enter: marquee lights. With a brightly lit sign (like the one that accompanied the Hitch Photo Booth at this California coastal wedding), no one will miss out on getting their photo taken.

20 of 25

Frame Your Photos

Bride and groom kissing in front of gold frame with greenery — Photo by Jenn Emerling

Another affordable option is creating a DIY background that’s reminiscent of a framed photo. To do this, set up metal rods in a rectangular shape to frame the subjects. To further augment the installation, decorate it with natural elements that match your surroundings—greenery is a great choice for botanical weddings.

21 of 25

Include a Boxwood Wall

Bride and groom posing in front of boxwood wall for photo booth — Photo by Twah Dougherty

Another organic option that has a similar feel to a flower wall is a boxwood wall, like the one shown at this chinoiserie-inspired Long Island soirée. Standing in front of a greenery-filled backdrop will bring a fresh feel to every shot. Plus, the green hue is a versatile, adaptable color that will coincide with many aesthetics and won't clash with many outfits.

22 of 25

Douse the Site in Balloons

Bride in yellow dress posing in front of balloon wall with red and orange balloons — Photo by Ana Hinojosa

Balloons are quintessential to any celebration, but their presence doesn't have to scream children's birthday party (unless you want it to, of course). With a refined approach, a balloon display can add an elegant, festive frame to any display. We love the playful, vibrant aesthetic pictured at these multicolored California nuptials, but you can create any design that fits your wedding theme.

23 of 25

Arrange an Elevated Area

Brides kissing in front of "Because Love" neon sign — Photo by Red Apple Tree Photography

Set your DIY photo booth apart by presenting it on an elevated surface. This wooden stage, set against a natural backdrop with a flower chandelier by Katelyn Pinner Studio above it, calls attention to the photo-worthy spot. To top it off, the neon sign offers a touching message.

24 of 25

Surround Yourself With Sparkles

Bride and groom posing in photo booth with glitter backdrop — Photo by Sheena Kim

No matter what camera situation you choose, a photo backdrop that's worthy of gracing your guests' social media feeds is an absolute must. Add a shimmery, playful component to your photo-booth station, or keep it simple with a basic white background that won't claim too much dominance within your reception venue.

25 of 25

Go With an Old-School Alternative

Kenwood Booth with privacy drapes and large sign — Courtesy of Union Booth

Sometimes, the lure of an old-timey photo booth is hard to pass up. The sentimental charm doesn't compare to anything else, making it a party focal point and an interactive experience all in one. If you prefer the DIY route without skimping on privacy, you can easily assemble your own construction out of heavy drapes (or wood paneling if you're talented in carpentry) with a fitted top for a ceiling.

How to Set Up a Polaroid Guest Book at Your Wedding—Plus, 13 Ideas That Prove How Fun This Interactive Trend Really Is