What does Booth.Events do best?


# All you need is a USB cable

Got a DSLR or a mirrorless camera like the Canon M50 or the Sony A6300? It's super easy to connect it to your iPad to make an awesome photo booth experience.

We'll get into the details but spoiler-alert: just plug in a USB cable to your Canon, Sony, or Nikon camera, and connect the other end to your iPad. Then start the Booth.Events app.

## History

When photo booths first got popular the iPad did not exist: PC-based photo booths came first. They were (and largely still are) difficult to use, because Windows is a complex operating system. It has mandatory updates that can suddenly reboot your device during an event, the requirement of installing & updating device drivers, and the possibility of being infected by malware/virus. Apps made for Windows tend to use older approaches to user-interfaces that aren't intuitive or easy to learn.

<Image src="/assets/blog/ipad-dslr-1.png" alt="Argh not now Windows, i'm doing an event!" />

Fast-forward to 2010 and the iPad is released: a simpler & more user-friendly device that's easy to manage. But it wasn't until 2015 when we released Wifibooth - the world's first photo booth app to connect to real cameras - that you could get great picture quality or use a proper lighting system via your camera's hotshoe. Until then you were limited to the iPad camera and constant lighting.

<Image
  src="/assets/blog/ipad-dslr-2.jpg"
  alt="Ancient App Store photo of Wifibooth unearthed from one of our digital time-capsules"
/>

And back then even Wifibooth wasn't plug-and-play! You had to connect over wifi, because Apple at the time did not allow apps to connect to cameras over the lightning port of the iPad. Wifi didn't exist on many cameras back then so we supported Eye-Fi cards, an SD card that added limited wifi support to the camera. Next came support for Canon cameras with built-in wifi, then Nikon, then Sony.

But wifi was still finicky: you had to get the camera and the iPad connected to the same network which is difficult for many people, and the wifi on older cameras wasn't great - it could drop the connection in the middle of the event.

Then finally in late 2020 with the iOS 14 update Apple allowed apps to use the lightning and USB-C ports of iPhones & iPads to connect to cameras. We updated Wifibooth and released our modern photo booth app, Booth.Events, with plug-and-play USB support for Canon cameras. A year later with changes we needed in iOS 15.2 we were able to support Nikon & Sony cameras too!

<Image src="/assets/blog/ipad-dslr-3.jpg" alt="I cannot tell you how excited we were to finally get access to this" />

## Download the App

Download the Booth.Events app by searching "Booth.Events" on the App Store or [clicking this link](https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id1519464692?pt=119433730&ct=blog&mt=8) on your iPad.

<Image src="/assets/blog/ipad-dslr-4.jpg" alt="The best 89.6 MB you'll ever download, guaranteed" />

## Sign Up

You can easily sign up with your Google account or Apple ID, and you don't need to pay anything or start a trial to check how your camera works with the app.

<Image
  src="/assets/blog/ipad-dslr-6.jpg"
  alt="Use your Google or Apple account and you'll be up & running in 3 touches or less"
/>

## Connect your camera to your iPad

First make sure you have iOS version 15.2 or newer, which you can do in the Settings App -> General -> About. Then check if you have a lightning port or USB-C port iPad.

If you have a lightning iPad then you need the [Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter](https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MK0W2AM/A/lightning-to-usb-3-camera-adapter) from Apple, which allows you to charge your iPad while it is connected to the camera.

If you have a USB-C iPad then you can either connect a USB cable directly from the iPad to the camera, or you can use a USB-C hub that has a power-in and other ports too so that you can charge your iPad while it is connected to your camera. Take a look at our [Recommended Hardware](https://help.booth.events/article/71-our-recommended-hardware) page to see the cheapest most reliable hub we like.

Finally, start the Booth.Events app on your iPad and make sure you've opened the camera settings screen at least once because that's where we ask for your permission to connect to the camera.

<Image
  src="/assets/blog/ipad-dslr-5.png"
  alt="Hit 'Front Camera' to open the camera settings screen in the Booth.Events app"
/>

If you're having trouble connecting the camera please check out our help article [Connect a USB Camera](https://help.booth.events/article/24-set-up-an-external-camera) and carefully read the Troubleshooting steps.

Once you're connected you can control the camera's settings directly from the app. The app will remember the settings you've chosen and apply them when the camera reconnects. If you don't want the app to remember the settings and apply them like this, then change the settings directly on the camera. Otherwise we recommend using the app to change the settings.

<Image
  src="/assets/blog/ipad-dslr-7.jpg"
  alt="One of our test rigs with a Canon M50 connected to an iPad Pro with a USB-C hub from Dockteck, showing the camera settings page"
/>

You can have the camera in landscape orientation (as seen in the photo above) or portrait orientation, as the app supports both. You should have the iPad in the same orientation as the camera so guests can easily see their whole photo.

## Compatible Cameras

So which cameras will work with Booth.Events? While we don't have an exhaustive list we can give you this guidance:

- Sony cameras don't support shooting video while tethered but Canon & Nikon do, so we recommend Canon cameras in general. See our [Recommended Hardware](https://help.booth.events/article/71-our-recommended-hardware) page.
- if it's a Canon older than the Canon T6i (750D) from 2015, it probably won't work; the Canon T6 (1300D) does not work but the T6i works well
- the older Sony a6000, a6100, and a6400 work for some people but not for others - we recommend you try the app out carefully before making a purchase if you have one of these cameras. Other Sony cameras like the a6300, a6500, and ZV-E10 work well.

## Strobe Flash

One of the greatest advantages of using a real camera with your iPad is that your camera can connect to a strobe flash lighting system, allowing you to take studio-like shots like this!

<Image
  src="/assets/blog/ipad-dslr-8.jpg"
  alt="Strobe flash brings out a lot of great detail in hair, clothes, and faces"
/>

## RAW workflows & where photos are saved

All photos & videos taken with your camera by the app will be saved on the camera's memory card (e.g. SD card) as well as downloaded to the app, and the app saves all photos & videos to your iPad's camera roll (accessible in the Apple Photos App). So you always have a copy of your photos on your SD card, as well as on the iPad's camera roll.

The app doesn't download RAW files from your camera because they're too big and take too long to process, but you can still use a RAW workflow to do custom processing on your event photos: set your camera to save both RAW and JPG files (RAW+JPG setting). The RAW files will be available on your memory card after the event for whatever processing you want to do, and the app will still download the JPGs.

## Let us know if you have questions

We're excited to see what you create with Booth.Events! If you have any questions while you're trying out the app don't hesitate to hit the '?' in the app or on the website, and then "Ask Us". That's the fastest way to get our attention. Don't forget to check out our many [help articles](https://help.booth.events) too.


Yes, you can connect a real camera to your iPad

# The Rise of GIFs and Boomerangs in Photo Booths: Bringing the Fun Factor to Your Events!

Have you noticed how photo booths have gotten way more fun lately? I'm talking GIFs and Boomerangs (in case you missed the title). In this blog, I'll dive into why GIFs and Boomerangs are all the rage in modern photo booths and how you can use these features like a pro. So, let's get this party started!

## 1. The Charm of GIFs and Boomerangs: Party on Loop!

First things first, what are GIFs and Boomerangs, you ask? Simply put, GIFs are short silent videos, and Boomerangs are the same thing but the video plays forwards then backwards, then forwards then backwards, etc. forever. See why they call them boomerangs? Think of it as capturing those hilarious moments in continuous replay! They're interactive and keep guests entertained, making events more memorable and share-worthy. Your guests are gonna love it!

## 2. Photo Booth Apps: The GIF and Boomerang Magicians

Alright, listen up! A Photo booth app does so much more than your camera can. These apps are all about seamlessly integrating your GIFs and Boomerangs into your photo booth experience. With a simple tap on the screen, your guests can switch from regular photos to dynamic visuals, adding a whole new level of excitement to their event keepsakes!

## 3. Make It Yours: Personalization Galore!

Let's talk personalization! We get that you want your event to stand out, and that's why you need to look for a photo booth app that goes above and beyond. There are some fully white-labelled ones out there (I can think of one anyway). Your guests can customize their GIFs and Boomerangs with overlays, brand logos, messages, and even digital props! It's all about adding a personal touch and creating moments that are one-of-a-kind.

## 4. Social Media Star: Share the Love

<Image src="/assets/blog/boomerangs-1.jpg" alt="Life was simple when I was just a pound sign" />

You know how everyone loves sharing their exciting life on social media? You can instantly share your GIFs and Boomerangs with the world! It's the perfect way to spread the fun beyond the event and show off your epic party.

## Time to Get Your Party On!

GIFs and Boomerangs are really fun to make, and a photo booth app makes sure that they are easy to make too. So, if you want your guests to have the time of their lives taking GIFs and Boomerangs, give Booth.Events a spin today! Let's make your events the talk of the town!

GIFs and Boomerangs Explained


Welcome, fellow photo booth entrepreneurs! As you embark on your exciting journey in the event industry, we understand the challenges you might encounter. Running a successful photo booth business requires strategic planning and careful navigation. In this blog, we'll provide valuable insights and tips to help you not only thrive but also shine as a photo booth entrepreneur.

## 1. Stand Out with Unique Offerings

In a competitive market, differentiation is key. To make your mark, offer unique and innovative photo booth experiences. Embrace the latest technologies like GIFs, Boomerangs, augmented reality filters, and green screens to enhance your services. Personalized branding options and digital props can add that special touch, making your photo booth a highly sought-after attraction at any event.

## 2. Tailor Your Services to Different Event Types

<Image src="/assets/blog/navigate-1.jpg" alt="Consult with your clients - make their dreams a reality" />

Events vary greatly, each with its distinct requirements. No two brides are made equal. By catering to exactly what your client expects, you can expand your client base and build a reputation of incredible service. Whether it's weddings, corporate gatherings, trade shows, or parties, understanding the specific needs of each occasion and offering tailored packages will showcase your versatility and professionalism.

## 3. Prioritize Guest Experience

The success of your photo booth business hinges on guest satisfaction. Ensure your photo booth setup is user-friendly and visually appealing. Train your staff to be friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable, providing guests with a delightful experience from start to finish. Attention to details like lighting, backdrop selection, and photo quality will leave your guests with cherished memories.

## 4. Effective Marketing and Networking

In a competitive industry, effective marketing is a must. Invest in a strong online presence, including a professional website and active social media profiles. Engage regularly with your audience, sharing event photos, testimonials, and behind-the-scenes content. Collaborate with event planners, venues, and other vendors to expand your network and unlock new opportunities.

## 5. Embrace Technology for Efficiency

<Image src="/assets/blog/navigate-2.jpg" alt="This young man is embracing technology" />


Technology can be your greatest ally as a photo booth entrepreneur. Invest in photo booth software that streamlines workflows, is making regular updates, and gathers valuable data on guest preferences. Utilize email marketing and automation to stay connected with past clients and nurture potential leads. Tech can improve efficiency but also enhance your overall business performance.

## 6. Seek Feedback and Constant Improvement

Never underestimate the power of feedback. Encourage clients to provide reviews and testimonials after their events. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your services. Stay open to learning from experiences, both positive and negative, and continuously adapt to meet the evolving needs of your clients.

## 7. Find the Best Photo Booth Software

Behind every successful photo booth business is the right software. Take the time to research and find the best photo booth software that suits your specific needs. Look for features like user-friendly interfaces, photo sharing options, branding customization, and analytics tracking. A reliable and feature-rich photo booth software will significantly enhance your services and streamline your operations, making your business more efficient and competitive.

## Conclusion: Chart Your Course to Success

As you navigate the event industry as a photo booth entrepreneur, remember that success is a journey, not a destination. By offering unique experiences, tailoring services, prioritizing guest satisfaction, marketing effectively, embracing technology, seeking continuous improvement, and finding the best photo booth software, you'll be well on your way to establishing a thriving and reputable photo booth business. Embrace each event as an opportunity to shine and create lasting memories for your clients.

Best of luck on your entrepreneurial voyage! The event industry awaits your creativity, passion, and dedication. Happy boothing!


Navigating the Event Industry: Essential Tips for Photo Booth Entrepreneurs


# 
Are you a photo booth entrepreneur seeking to make a lasting impact in the thriving (and competitive) event industry? Your success lies in selecting the ideal photo booth software to elevate your photo booth and stand out among the competition. In this comprehensive guide, I'll talk about some essential factors to consider. Hopefully when you're all read up, you'll be able to make the right decision for your photo booth business.

## User-Friendly Interface: Capturing Effortless Experiences

Simplicity is key when capturing the essence of any event. Seek photo booth software with a user-friendly interface, ensuring both guests and operators can navigate effortlessly. With clear instructions and intuitive design, your app should give your guests seamless photo sessions, creating treasured memories.

## Versatile Photo Capture Options: Inspiring Creative Expressions

Events are a canvas for creativity, and your photo booth should reflect that. Look for software offering a diverse range of photo capture options – from traditional stills to animated GIFs, Boomerangs, and dynamic video recordings. Embrace the power of artistic freedom, allowing guests to express themselves in imaginative ways.

## Customization and Branding: Leaving a Lasting Impression

<Image src="/assets/blog/choices-1.jpg" alt="Look for software that is completely white-labelled" />

In a world of mass experiences, personalization sets you apart. Opt for a photo booth app that enables comprehensive customization – personalized overlays, templates, and attract screens – infusing each event with a unique touch. Showcase your brand and artistic vision, leaving a memorable mark on every guest.

## Hardware integrations: Expanding Your Reach

<Image src="/assets/blog/choices-3.jpg" alt="Got a DSLR? lots of apps offer tethering!" />


Embrace the potential of integrating a DSLR or Dye-Sub printer. Look for photo booth software that tethers with DSLR cameras and printers. This unlocks new opportunities and widens your reach to high end luxury events, making you an indispensable part of the event ecosystem.

## Customer Support and Updates: A Foundation of Reliability

<Image src="/assets/blog/choices-2.jpg" alt="For when you have questions or need help, talking to a human is indispensable" />

The success of your business rests on a foundation of reliable customer support and frequent updates. Choose software providers offering exceptional customer service via various channels. An app with regular software updates is a sign that they are innovating. This will ensure that your photo booth remains current with the latest features, security enhancements, and industry trends.

## Conclusion: Empowering Your Photo Booth Business

Now equipped with this comprehensive guide, you possess the knowledge to elevate your photo booth business to new heights. Embrace user-friendly interfaces for effortless captures, inspire creativity with versatile photo options, leave an indelible impression with customization and branding, expand your reach and up your game through hardware integrations, and ensure reliability with top-tier support and updates.

As you embark on this journey, the right photo booth software will capture the hearts of clients and guests alike, freezing fleeting moments and illuminating events with unforgettable memories. So, choose wisely, and let your photo booth business shine as a beacon of excellence in the fast paced and competitive industry of events services.


Choosing the Right Photo Booth Software: Things To Consider


Have you been tasked with the impossible? You need to figure out how to setup and deliver a fully-featured photobooth with all of the bells & whistles, on a grand total budget of zero dollars.

The photo booth app [Booth.Events](https://booth.events) for your iPad offers more pro-level features for **free** than any other app. Here's a short video overview:

<Video src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6FXG9KJRyIw" />

In this article we'll cover what you get for free, what you don't, and **how to set up the app in 100% free mode**.

Photo booths are an awesome addition to any party at your charity event, your hospital staff party, your school's homecoming, or any other fun event you're putting together. The booth will excite your guests, get them talking, and make memories they'll keep with them to remember the night!

# What you get

Booth.Events is a website and an [iOS app](https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id1519464692?pt=119433730&ct=blog&mt=8) that runs on iPhone or iPad. You create & manage your events on the website and use the app on the iPad to choose the event's capture settings. Then your guests have a blast using the app to take their photos & make fun videos.

Here's a breakdown of what you get **for free**:

## AI Background Removal (SceneSelect)

You don't need an expensive green backdrop in order to have your guests cut out and put onto a background of your choice! Our app can use any iPad that has Face ID to produce a high quality background replacement.

Here's a silly selfie of myself taken in our office while sitting in my office chair with terrible lighting, with the background flawlessly replaced using SceneSelect:

[![Tim](/assets/blog/sceneselect-example.jpg)](/assets/blog/sceneselect-example.jpg)

... and here's how easy that was for the guest to choose in the app:

[![SceneSelect](/assets/blog/sceneselect.jpg)](/assets/blog/sceneselect.jpg)

You can upload your own backgrounds as scenes using the [template editor](https://help.booth.events/article/19-using-the-template-attract-screen-editor).

## Connect a USB camera

Got a Canon, Nikon, or Sony camera? Connect it to your iPad for amazing photo quality! You can connect a flash system to your camera for studio-style photos, or use a fish-eye lens for stylized photos.

It's really easy and you don't need any extra third-party hardware to make it work. Plug the USB cord into the camera and the other end into your USB-C iPad and the app will connect automatically. iPads with a lightning port are supported too - you'll need the camera adapter from Apple.

<Video src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/12B4vRUk0D4" />

You can read more about [connecting your USB camera here](https://help.booth.events/article/24-set-up-an-external-camera).

## Printing

Connect a printer to make memories your guests can take home & put on their fridge door. The app will work with any printer that supports Apple AirPrint, and also printers connected via a DNP WCM unit.

[![Photo printer](/assets/blog/printer.jpg)](/assets/blog/printer.jpg)

You can read more about [connecting your printer here](https://help.booth.events/article/38-connect-a-printer).

## GIF me everything

The app supports all of the capture types you need:

[![Event settings screenshot](/assets/blog/capture-types.jpg)](/assets/blog/capture-types.jpg)

You can read more about these [capture types here](https://help.booth.events/article/22-event-capture-settings).

## Get your guests' attention with an Attract Screen

An attract screen is like a screensaver that automatically turns on when the app isn't used for a while. It gets your guests' attention and gets the excitement building!

[![Attract screen](/assets/blog/attract.jpg)](/assets/blog/attract.jpg)

You can create your own attract screen using our browser-based editor.

## Huge selection of templates

There are hundreds of templates to select from. Bat Mitzvah? Got you covered. Kids' sports event? Check. Dia de los Muertos? Glitzy ball? Fashion event? Yes. These are all free, you don't have to pay for them.

You can immediately see all of the templates after you sign in by going to the Templates page:

[![Templates page screenshot](/assets/blog/templates-screenshot.jpg)](/assets/blog/templates-screenshot.jpg)

## Build your own attract screen or template

We have a browser-based [editor](https://help.booth.events/article/19-using-the-template-attract-screen-editor) that makes it super easy to create your own templates, attract screens, and branded background screens for the app. You can duplicate one of ours and start from there, or create your own! You don't need to be a pro at Photoshop.

[![Editor screenshot](/assets/blog/template-editor.jpg)](/assets/blog/template-editor.jpg)

## Add Stickers

Guests can add stickers to their creations with just a tap. You can upload your own sticker sets too.

[![Adding stickers](/assets/blog/stickers.jpg)](/assets/blog/stickers.jpg)

## No internet? No problem

If you don't have internet access during your event or the internet access keeps going down & coming back, that's no problem for the app! It'll [automatically detect](https://help.booth.events/article/52-offline) when it's able to connect. When you open an event all of its assets are downloaded, so you can easily take your iPad offline and still run your event.

[![Home screen](/assets/blog/homescreen.jpg)](/assets/blog/homescreen.jpg)

## Add custom audio tracks

Has the bride got a favorite track? You can add your own audio tracks to your slow-mos.

## Brand the app

There are a ton of possibilities to change how the app looks and it is easy to do. **Other apps don't let you do this for free**, but Booth.Events does! You can:

- add a message that appears on the home screen
- change the app's buttons for photo/GIF/boomerang etc, by uploading your own images
- change the app's backgrounds: you can create a custom attract screen and use that as the home screen's background, and you can upload an image to be used as the background on the capture screens
- change the text color
- change the text that the app shows by using the Languages feature; this also allows you to translate the app into your own language however you like

[![Editing an Event: iPad branding settings](/assets/blog/branding.png)](/assets/blog/branding.png)

[Check out our video article](https://help.booth.events/article/16-branding) for more details on how to brand your event!

## Get the digital photos

The app saves all of the photos & videos it creates on the Camera Roll. That means you can easily access your guests' creations just by opening the Photos app.

By using the Camera Roll the app makes it easy to work with Dropbox, Google Photos, or whatever services you want to use with your photo booth: just open the Dropbox app and select the photos from your Camera Roll!

## Recap

Here's what you can use **for free**, indefinitely:

- Photos, Slow-mos, Boomerangs, GIFs, Videos with sound
- Huge selection of templates
- Build your own template
- SceneSelect / background replacement
- Connect a Canon, Nikon, or Sony camera
- Printing
- Digital Stickers
- Attract Screen
- Works without internet
- Custom audio tracks for slow-mos
- Brand the app
- All photos/videos stored on the Camera Roll

Phew, that's a lot of free stuff!

# What's NOT free

Here's what you can [try for free](https://booth.events/pricing), but you are limited to smaller events of 100 photos/videos until you pay.

## Online Gallery [not free]

The app can upload all of the photos & videos to a custom online gallery that lets guests download their creations immediately.

[![Gallery](/assets/blog/gallery.jpg)](/assets/blog/gallery.jpg)

## Share via Email and Text (SMS) [not free]

The app can take in phone numbers and email addresses to quickly send guests their creations right after they've finished making them.

[![SMS](/assets/blog/sms.jpg)](/assets/blog/sms.jpg)

## Download a CSV of guest data [not free]

When a guest inputs their email address or phone number, the app saves it and you can [download it later](https://help.booth.events/article/10-session-match).

[![Guest list](/assets/blog/guest-list.png)](/assets/blog/guest-list.png)

# How to make an event free

OK so how do you do it? It's just one switch in the app! You need to do this for each event that you create & want to be totally free, and **you need to do this before you take any photos in the "Launch Event" mode**.

## Turn off Shared.Gallery

In the app, open your event and turn off the switch for "Shared.Gallery" like the red arrow shows:

[![Shared.Gallery is off](/assets/blog/sharedgallery-off.jpg)](/assets/blog/sharedgallery-off.jpg)

See how in the green box the "media stored" is 0 and there's no expiry date set? That's because we turned off this setting **before** any photos or videos were uploaded by the app (uploads happen when you hit the "Launch Event" button, but not if you use the "Preview" button).

By using this epic hack you make sure that your gallery will never expire, which means you can launch this event and keep using it - forever!

As we went over above, all photos & videos created by the app will be stored on the Camera Roll (Photos app).

# Let's get started!

Ready to dive in? Just follow these easy steps:

1. [Sign in](https://dashboard.booth.events)
2. Create an event
3. [Get the app](https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id1519464692?pt=119433730&ct=blog&mt=8) on your iPad or iPhone
4. Turn off Shared.Gallery as shown above

# Watch our videos

Want to watch some of our videos explaining things before you dive in? Check out [our YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOuqEmdZz9byYjYdqbnGLDw). Here's a longer walk-through video:

<Video src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q6WYMz21Hjs" />

# We are here to help

Check out our [help articles](https://help.booth.events) and [videos](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOuqEmdZz9byYjYdqbnGLDw).

Still have questions? Hit the '?' at the bottom-right and choose "Ask Us".

We're looking forward to seeing what you create with Booth.Events.


How to set up a professional photo booth for free


It can seem really complicated, but we're going to break it down for you: computers talk to each other on networks and all the fancy terms you've heard are just ways of explaining how the network is set up. You'll need to understand some of these concepts to be able to set up your photo booth, so that your guests can send their slow-mos from your 360 spinner booth over the internet or print their photos.

## Computer Computer Computer.

For this discussion just think of anything that can transmit or receive data as a computer. Does your printer have wifi? It's a computer. Your iPad? Computer. Your integrated LED controller? Yup: computer.

<Image src="/assets/blog/network-1.jpg" alt="Actual photo* of Booth.Events server room" />

There are two ways computers can talk to each other:

1. Exactly two computers directly connected to each other, without a router - sometimes called "adhoc"
2. Two or more computers connected together on a network that has a router

Heard of Bluetooth? That's (1) above - it's when two computers are directly connected to each other. Another example of the same: when most printers make a wifi hotspot for you to join, you'll notice that only one computer can join it at a time.

## Networks

There are two main types:

1. Wired networks, like ethernet networks
2. Wireless networks, aka wifi

Think of a network like a street with houses on it. If you are delivering a parcel for FedEx, how do you know which house it goes to? The address. On a street these are house numbers, on a network these are IP addresses (IP is short for "Internet Protocol"). If you had to deliver this parcel and found that two houses had the same house number, you'd get confused right? That's why you can't have two computers with the same IP address on a network.

<Image src="/assets/blog/network-2.jpg" alt="Is it me or are there multiple vehicles parked on the sidewalk?!" />

## IP Addresses

There are different kinds of IP addresses but by far the most common are the IPv4 kind, and they look like this: 192.168.4.1. House numbers would be easier for sure, but there's a method behind this madness; for now let's simplify this into two kinds of IP addresses:

1. Internal IP addresses that are not directly addressable on the internet. These are 192.168.n.n, 10.n.n.n, and 172.n.n.n (well, almost).
2. External IP addresses that are directly addressable on the internet. These are your unique address on the internet: no one else has yours!

## Routers make the world go round

In your home & at your photo booth venue you have a private/internal network, probably with a wifi router. This router is acting as the conductor of the network: it is giving out IP addresses to computers that don't have one. It does that using a protocol called DHCP: when a computer gets onto a network it uses DHCP to ask "Hey! I need an IP address!" - your router replies "hmm, looks like 192.168.1.55 is free, take that one for 6 hours then ask again". That's DHCP.

<Image src="/assets/blog/network-3.jpg" alt="Bloop bleep they can't see me hiding behind this tree" />

By doing this your router has _created a new private network_. That is happening in millions of places all around the world... tuned-in readers will now ask "hey I thought IP addresses were unique, but doesn't this mean lots of people use the same private addresses like 192.168.1.1"? Yup! That works because these private networks don't expose these addresses outside of their boundaries. In other words IP addresses are unique per network.

# Routers are gateways

Another really important role of your router is as a gateway. You might have seen "Default Gateway" before, which Apple calls simply "Router" on iOS & iPadOS: what that means is if you're that FedEx delivery-person again and you're given a parcel with an address you cannot find, who do you give the parcel to next? The default gateway.

If a computer tries to send some data to an IP address it doesn't know itself, it sends it to the default gateway and says _hey buddy you handle this!_

Every router has a default gateway too: they'll keep passing it along until somebody somewhere knows who can help with that IP address.

<Image src="/assets/blog/network-4.jpg" alt="Yes, me! I know how to reach that IP address! Pick me!" />

Now think about an iPad with celluar data: it has up to three network "interfaces" (well four with Bluetooth)! The cellular data is a network interface, so is wifi, so is wired networking (if you've plugged in an ethernet adapter). So if your iPad wants to send data to some IP address, how does it know which interface (and therefore which network) to use?

Turns out each network interface has a property that helps the operating system make that choice, called a "metric". This acts as a cost, which helps the iPad figure out which is the _cheapest_ way of sending data to an IP address. This is how the iPad can prefer to send data over wifi instead of cellular data, because wifi is cheaper!

Last thing about gateways: you can intentionally remove a network interface's default gateway, to make sure only data specifically for that network gets sent over it. In the land of photo booths this trick gets used for printers: you might have a print server that's connected to your printer (great!) but not the internet (boo). So you want only traffic that's destined for your printer to go over that network. The easiest way to do this? Just remove that network's default gateway! We show you how in [this help article](https://help.booth.events/article/62-connect-to-your-printer-and-the-internet-at-the-same-time).

<Image
  src="/assets/blog/network-5.png"
  alt="An iPad's network interface settings, showing no default gateway ('router')"
/>

## It sucks to type in an IP address

No one, _no one_ wants to type in an IP address to access anything - who could remember all those numbers? So we invented the phonebook of the internet, which is called DNS. All DNS does is turn _mywebsite.com_ into _76.76.21.21_ (and vice-versa).

## Summary

In this article we learned:

- a network is what lets computers talk to each other, and basically everything is a computer
- an IP address is like a street number on a house: a way to figure out where to deliver something
- you can make your own network with private IP addresses: that's what your router is already doing!
- routers are the conductors of the network: they assign IP addresses via DHCP, and by being the default gateway they help everything get delivered
- DNS is what turns website names like mywebsite.com into IP addresses like 24.141.179.26

<Image src="/assets/blog/network-6.jpg" alt="OMG please tell me this is over I have a headache" />

Want to know more? Just ask us, we'll help!

[Booth.Events](https://booth.events) is an iPad photo booth app that guests use to take their photos and videos, and email, text and print them. Here's a video walking through what it looks like to set up and run your event:

<Video src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4MV6tk6CMgo" />

# We are here to help

Check out our [help articles](https://help.booth.events) and [videos](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOuqEmdZz9byYjYdqbnGLDw).

Still have questions? Hit the '?' at the bottom-right and choose "Ask Us".

We're looking forward to seeing what you create with Booth.Events.


Networking for Newbies


[Booth.Events](https://booth.events) is an iPad photo booth app that guests use to take their photos and videos, and email, text and print them. Here's a video walking through what it looks like to set up and run your event:

<Video src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4MV6tk6CMgo" />

If you're part of a **non-profit organization** or **charity** and you want to setup & run your own photo booth, but you don't have a big budget for software - we can help!

Please get in contact with us by hitting the '?' at the bottom-right, then hit 'Ask'. Give us a very brief summary of what your organization does, or a link to its website if you have one. We'll get back to you quickly.

We also have a post showing you how to use the app for free & what features you'd be missing when using the app for free: [How to set up a professional photo booth for free](https://booth.events/blog/free-app)

# We are here to help

Check out our [help articles](https://help.booth.events) and [videos](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOuqEmdZz9byYjYdqbnGLDw).

Still have questions? Hit the '?' at the bottom-right and choose "Ask Us".

We're looking forward to seeing what you create with Booth.Events.


Are you a non-profit or charity?


Photo booths have become a staple, from birthday parties for kids to corporate events and extravagant weddings. With advances in technology there are now many different types of photo booths available to suit every event and budget. Let's explore just _some_ of the different types and their unique features.

## 1. Analog Photo Booth (the OG)

![An old style film photo booth](/assets/blog/booth-types-1.jpg)

The original photo booth was invented in 1925 by Anatol Josepho. He called his invention 'The Photomaton' and installed it on Broadway in New York City. He would charge 25 cents for a strip of 8 black and white photos, which took 8 minutes to develop. The Photomaton quickly became popular, and Anatol sold his invention for a mouth-watering $1,000,000, equivalent to $17,095,428.57 in 2023.

The photo booth was then brought to Europe and exploded in popularity along with the technical advances in film photography, and then began to decline with the advent of the Polaroid instant photo.

A modern analog photo booth uses film cameras and chemical development processes to produce physical prints (sciency stuff). They do have one heck of a nostalgic charm and are a popular choice for retro-themed events and weddings with a rustic vibe. Analog photo booths are relatively rare these days compared to their digital counterparts and as a result could be more expensive to rent.

**Pros:**

- Nostalgic and classic look and feel
- Creates physical prints for guests to take home as a keepsake
- Unique experience compared to digital photo booths

**Cons:**

- Limited availability and may be more expensive to rent
- Slow turnaround time as film needs to be developed and printed
- Limited (if any) customization options compared to digital photo booths

## 2. Digital Booth using iPad Camera

![A woman standing next to a modern iPad photo booth](/assets/blog/helio-v3.jpg)

Digital photo booths are the modern version of the original photo booth. Modern apps will use the front-facing camera of an iPad and a printer to produce high-quality images. They offer various customization options, such as adding graphics, text, or backgrounds to the images. They are perfect for weddings, corporate events, and trade shows. Guests can take photos and videos, and receive digital copies via email, social media, or view the entire events media in an online gallery. iPad photo booths are easy to set up and can be operated by guests without the need for an attendant.

**Pros:**

- Lightweight
- Easy to set up and operate
- Cost-effective compared to traditional photo booths
- Allows for digital sharing via email and social media
- can use high frame rate capture formats for slow-mo and boomerang

**Cons:**

- Lower image quality compared to DSLR-connected photo booths
- Not ideal for events with a vintage or retro theme.
- Cannot use strobe flashes (never going to get studio quality)

## 3. iPad Photo Booth with Connected DSLR (Best)

![A woman standing next to a photo booth with a DSLR and strobe flash](/assets/blog/ata-eco-booth.jpg)

Some digital photo booths apps can integrate with a connected DSLR camera. This is the best of both worlds, combining the ease of use of an iPad with the pro-quality images of a DSLR camera. The iPad serves as a touchscreen interface and live view for guests, while the DSLR camera captures crispy high-resolution photos. Pair this with a pro lighting rig and your photos will be unbeatable keepsakes. This type of photo booth produces professional-grade physical AND digital prints, and is perfect for any event at any budget.

**Pros:**

- High-quality images comparable to professional-grade studio photography
- Touchscreen interface allows for easy operation by guests
- Customization options including personalized overlays and backdrops
- Physical and digital copies

**Cons:**

- Prices can range drastically based on the features of each app
- Additional equipment means additional setup time
- May require an attendant for complicated rigs

## 4. 360 Booth

![A 360 spinner booth](/assets/blog/ata-360.jpg)

The 360 photo booth is the latest trend in photo booth technology and is rapidly growing in popularity. This 'booth' allows guests to capture a 360-degree video of themselves; a unique video that a guest would not be able to create otherwise, and will love sharing with their friends and colleagues. These booths typically use an iPhone or iPad, because they lightweight and easier to spin.

**Pros:**

- Unique experience for guests
- Everyone is included in group shots.
- Extremely easy to set up

**Cons:**

- Requires additional space and safety concerns for the spinning arm.
- More delicate than other setups
- Cannot take traditional photos and videos

## 5. Roamer 'Booth'

![A woman holding a roamer-style photo booth](/assets/blog/ata-roamer.jpg)

Roamer 'booths' are handheld cameras or tablets with a lighting rig built in, allowing you to move around the event and take photos of guests in different locations. These booths are ideal for larger events where guests may be spread out across multiple areas. Roamer photo booths typically use an iPad and are operated by a photographer or assistant.

**Pros:**

- Can move around the event and capture photos in different locations
- Ideal for larger events
- Offers flexibility in capturing photos

**Cons:**

- May require additional staffing to operate the booth effectively
- Limited customization options compared to traditional photo booths

## 6. Mirror Booth

![A woman standing next to a mirror photo booth](/assets/blog/ata-mirror.jpg)

Mirror photo booths use a two-way mirror allowing guests to see their reflection while posing for photos. These booths typically use a giant touchscreen and digital camera and can offer a range of features such as animations and personalized overlays. Mirror photo booths are a popular choice for weddings, as they hide all of the tech and wires behind a classy facade that guests can see themselves in.

**Pros:**

- Unique and interactive experience for guests
- Customizable with personalized overlays and animations
- Offers a range of different features and options

**Cons:**

- More expensive compared to iPad photo booths
- May require additional setup time and space
- Very heavy
- Difficult to transport due to size & fragility - easy to break
- Image that guests see in the mirror could be different from the actual photograph if not properly calibrated
- Guests use the booth as a mirror rather than as a photo booth
- Windex

##

There are different types of photo booths available to suit every event and budget. Whether you're looking for a classic and nostalgic analog photo booth, an easy-to-use iPad photo booth, a high-quality DSLR-connected booth, an immersive 360 booth, a mobile roamer, or a unique mirror photo booth, there's an option out there for you.

Consider the pros and cons of each type of booth and choose the one that best suits your event and your guests' needs. For more detailed specifications of each type of photo booth, check out [ATA Photobooths](https://www.ataphotobooths.com/). They are a vendor of photo booths and are an excellent place to start. They have just about every type of photo booth available, and a very knowledgable team to guide you through the process. Good luck and happy boothing!


Which photo booth is right for you?


Photo booths are a fantastic way to earn more revenue at every event, increase your brand exposure, and make your guests happy. So what’s the best way of setting up a photo booth and your photo booth app?

![A strobe flash light](https://wifibooth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/chalo-garcia-ExviotFfEBI-unsplash.jpg)

## Lighting is Everything

It doesn’t matter if you have the best software and the best camera, you can still end up with terrible photos if your lighting isn’t great.

To start, decide if you will have:

- Constant lighting, like an LED light panel, or,
- Strobe / flash lighting, like a flash as shown in the photo above

If you bought a photo booth setup from a company like [Photo Booth International](https://photoboothint.com/), [LA Photo Party](https://laphotoparty.com/), or [Atlanta Photo Booth](https://atlantaphotobooth.com/), then it likely came with the lighting included. Use what you have!

**Constant lighting** is the easiest because the light is always on. This means you don’t have to synchronize the lights to the camera. **You need to use constant lighting if you’re using the iPad camera to take the photos.** You also need to use constant lighting when your connected camera is showing the live-view and is unable to expose the live-view differently than the photos. In general a Canon xxxD (like the 750D) has this issue but a Canon xxD (like the 80D) does not. This means that if you want live-view then the Canon 80D could use strobe/flash but the 750D cannot.

![Three women smiling in a photo booth](https://wifibooth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/IMG_5186.jpg)

**Strobe / flash lighting** (as seen in the photo above) produces a more studio-like effect, with strong contrast and the ability to “freeze” motion. This is great for when your guests decide to jump or move quickly. To use strobe lighting you need to sync the flash with the camera that you’re using, just like you would do when you take photos with the flash. Your photo booth software needs to support connecting to your camera for this to be possible.

## Where you position the light is important

If you’re using constant lighting then you probably need most or all of the light directly facing the guests. You should try placing a second light at 45 degrees to increase contrast. This means that the light is hitting the guests from the side. This will bring out the details because it will create minor shadows on the face. **Play with it! A small change in the position of your lighting can have a big effect on the way your guests see the photos.**

![Lighting diagram](https://wifibooth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/lighting-1-300x296.png)

A setup with one light that’s 45 degrees from the camera

The same goes for strobe/flash lighting: consider having the main light about 30 to 45 degrees away from the camera, hitting the guests on an angle. In the photo above that’s what was used – about 40 degrees to the left (from the camera’s perspective).

## Which iPad should you buy?

Yes, that super old iPad that your kids have beat up might still work, but it isn’t going to give the professional appearance you want for your business. The best reason to buy a newer iPad is that the quality of the front-facing camera has improved greatly over time. Also, the introduction of the TrueDepth camera has allowed booth software to do awesome things with computational photography. For that reason we highly recommend the **iPad Pro line with FaceID**, because these are the only iPads that have the TrueDepth camera. At the time of writing the two size options are 11″ and 12.9″, and both are great!

## Camera orientation: landscape or portrait?

If you’re going to crop the photos to square then you don’t care – skip this section. Otherwise, you need to decide if the camera is going to be portrait orientation (up/down), or landscape (left/right). **There’s no right answer, it depends on the event**. If you’re going to have large groups taking photos, meaning each group is likely to have more than 5 people, then you should use landscape (left/right) to make sure everyone fits in the photo. Otherwise use portrait (up/down), so that you can get the full body of the guests in the photo. People care about their shoes, especially at weddings!

![A table setting at a wedding](https://wifibooth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/chuttersnap-aEnH4hJ_Mrs-unsplash.jpg)

## Green Screen

Green screen means that the photo booth software will change the background behind the guests. The older method of green screen is chromakey, which requires a green-colored backdrop behind the guests. The newer method uses **computational photography to replace the background without any colored backdrop at all**. It’s far easier to use because you don’t have to buy or carry around green-colored backdrops. The photo booth app for iPad [Booth.Events](https://booth.events/) supports this newer method with its SceneSelect feature. SceneSelect even allows guests to pick a photo for the background when they take their pictures.

## Booth placement

Where should you put the booth? If you’re using strobe/flash lighting, then some guests might be annoyed if where they are sitting for most of the event is constantly bombarded by flashes. In this case consider moving the booth further away from where guests are seated. Otherwise, you don’t want the booth to be too far away: **out of sight is out of mind**. Your booth will only be successful if people actually find it and use it! Putting the photo booth in its own room (away from the guests) is a bad idea: it won’t get used. Try and put the booth somewhere where the guests already need to be, ie. on the way to the room/area where dessert is served.

Ideally you should have a space at least 2 meters (6 feet) wide and 3 meters (9 feet) deep for your photo booth. This gives guests the space to walk around the booth. You also need to think about kids running around and drunk guests rushing to the booth. More space means your guests are less likely to bump into your equipment and knock something over. If you have props on a table you need to make sure you have a space that’s big enough. Make sure the guests can easily grab the props between shots. A table just on the side of the booth is one way to do this.

![Blurry string of lights](https://wifibooth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/andrew-knechel-gG6yehL64fo-unsplash.jpg)

## Buy some props

Real booth props are an easy and cheap way to ratchet up your guests’ excitement in the booth! Digital props are cool, but a lot of guests will get a kick out of a good old moustache on a stick. You can buy these props in many places including cheap options from Amazon, Etsy, and Ebay. The trick is to order a few sets from different sellers, and find one that you think is good quality for the cost. You’ll be re-ordering them from time to time, because props don’t last forever: they get stolen and broken. It helps to have a reliable seller you can re-order from quickly!

## Get a printer

In today’s digital world you might not think printing is necessary, but **prints from your booth are your best way of being remembered. Prints are the most important brand exposure you’ll get from the event**. These prints will get put on refrigerator doors, pinned on boards, stuck on walls, etc. That’s your logo and your brand in someone’s home, with a strong associated positive memory (ie. “that was a fun wedding!”). This directly translates to more callbacks and more revenue! It’s important to spend the money and get a great printer for your photo booth.

Make sure your photo booth software supports printing because not all of them do. [Booth.Events](https://booth.events/) can print to any AirPrint printer or server, and also to DNP WPS products.

If your booth setup came with a printer then you are set. Otherwise, there are basically two options:

- Cheap & small printers, like the Canon Selphy series
- Dye-sublimation (aka dye sub) printers, like those made by [DNP](http://dnpphoto.com), [HiTi](https://www.hiti.com),  
  and [Mitsubishi](https://mitsubishielectric-printing.com)

## Get a dye sub printer

Unless your budget cannot stretch, **getting a dye sub printer is definitely the option to choose**. The primary reasons to get a dye sub printer are:

- **Speed**, because dye sub printers are much faster than regular printers
- **Paper capacity**, because you don’t have time to constantly be refilling empty paper trays
- **Professional quality prints** that don’t smudge or smear if guests have sweaty hands when they pick them up

An excellent printer to consider is the new [DNP QW410](http://dnpphoto.com/Portals/0/Resources/DNP_QW410_Product_Sheet.pdf), which is affordable, small, lighter than most dye sub printers, supports strip photo printing & cutting, and can optionally be battery powered. You’ll need to buy the optional wireless dongle so that your iPad can print to it.

You need to choose whether your booth prints single large photos (ie. 4×6″), or traditional “strip” photos (a series of 3 photos in a photo strip). If you’re opting for the strip photos then you need to make sure your printer supports cutting the paper for the strips. You don’t want to leave this as an exercise for your guests: scissors and alcohol are not a good combination.

![Foggy danceclub](https://wifibooth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/sarthak-navjivan-iTZOPe7BpTM-unsplash.jpg)

For reviews on dye sublimation printers, check out [this article on prizedreviews](https://prizedreviews.com/best-sublimation-printer/).

## Think about how your guests will get digital copies of their photos

There are a lot of ways for your guests to get their photos. **You need to make sure that your business & brand are benefitting from the additional exposure**. Obvious options include making sure your photo booth software is configured to send E-mail and SMS (texts). You’ll be collecting e-mail addresses which you can use to market to later on (assuming that you collected the required consent from your guests to contact them). You should also consider using cloud storage options such as Dropbox, because this will be great for the guests who want to see all of the photos (not just their own).

We suggest getting a photo booth app that will upload and host your photos on their own server, and then configuring the emails sent from the app to include the link to the online gallery. That way guests can get the link to the entire album, which means they do not have to enter their email address more than once. It also lets them see the whole set of photos which is often more exciting than just seeing a single photo.

If you configure any social network sharing, then make sure your guests are informed and consent to their photos being posted. Remember, these photos are publicly accessible. If there’s going to be alcohol involved then consider turning off any integration that posts the photos publicly. You can always review them later and post them manually. This prevents embarrassing photos from getting posted which could be a huge headache for you later.

![Sparklers at a wedding](https://wifibooth.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/andreas-ronningen-S2YssLw97l4-unsplash.jpg)

If you’re looking for more information on how to setup the perfect photo booth, or if you want to compare different photo booth software to figure out which is the best for you, then check out our [blog](https://boothevents-next-git-feature-blog-solodigitalis.vercel.app/blog) for more information.


12 ways to maximize your photo booth profitability in 2023


Adding a photo booth to your event can be a great way to create a fun and engaging experience for your attendees. People are always looking for an update to their professional headshot! Here are some reasons why you should consider renting a photo booth for your next corporate event:

1\. **Enhance brand awareness**: A photo booth can be customized with your company's branding and logo providing a unique opportunity to increase brand awareness and recognition. By incorporating your company's colors and logo into the photo booth backdrop and printouts, attendees will remember your brand long after the event is over.

2\. **Create a fun and interactive experience**: Photo booths are a great way to engage your attendees and create a memorable experience. Not only do they offer a fun and interactive activity, but the printed photo strips also serve as a keepsake for attendees to remember the event by.

![Headshot of a young adult man](/assets/blog/corporate3.jpg)

3\. **Boost social media presence**: Social media plays a significant role in event marketing. Photo booths offer a perfect opportunity to create shareable content on social media platforms. Attendees can share their photos on social media and tag your company which can help increase your online presence and reach a wider audience.

4\. **Provide data collection opportunities**: Photo booths can also serve as a tool for data collection. By requiring attendees to enter their email address or social media handle before taking a photo you can collect valuable data for future marketing efforts.

5\. **Encourage networking**: A photo booth can be a great icebreaker for attendees especially those who may not know many people at the event. As people gather around the booth to take photos they can strike up conversations and get to know each other. This can help create a more welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at your event.

![two women laughing at each other](/assets/blog/corporate1.jpg)

6\. **Provide entertainment**: Corporate events can sometimes feel a bit dry and boring but a photo booth can provide a less serious and lighthearted activity for attendees to enjoy. People love taking silly photos with their colleagues or trying out different props and backdrops which can help lighten the mood and make a stuffy event more enjoyable overall.

7\. **Customization options**: Photo booths can be customized in a variety of ways to fit your event's theme or aesthetic. You can choose from different backdrops, props, and even print designs to make the booth feel more personalized and on-brand. This attention to detail can help elevate the overall experience for attendees and make your event feel more polished.

![three women in a bathtub](/assets/blog/corporate4.jpg)

8\. **Provide a unique marketing opportunity**: In addition to increasing brand awareness, a photo booth can also provide a unique marketing opportunity. For example, you could use the booth to promote a new product or service by incorporating relevant props or messaging into the photo prints. You could also use the booth as a way to collect feedback or conduct surveys by asking attendees to answer questions before or after taking their photo.

![group of people laughing over their laptops in a cafe](/assets/blog/corporate5.jpg)

Incorporating a photo booth into your corporate event can provide many benefits, from increasing brand awareness to creating a fun and engaging experience for attendees. If you're interested in renting a photo booth for your next corporate event be sure to do your research and find a reputable vendor that offers high-quality equipment and excellent customer service.


How a Photo Booth Can Elevate Your Corporate Event Experience


Proper lighting is essential to high-quality photos. Optimal lighting can make all the difference, enhancing facial features and creating a flattering atmosphere for your guests. On the other hand bad lighting is a recipe for disaster. Not enough light and your photos will turn out blurry and your USB camera won't focus fast enough. Too much light and your guests will look like 2D cut-outs. So here are some tips on how to properly light a photo booth.

## Types of Lights

There are various types of lighting equipment available that can be used for photo booths. Here are some of the most popular ones:

**Constant lights:** These are lights that emit a continuous source of light such as LED panels or tungsten bulbs. They are ideal for photo booths because they are affordable, easy to use, and don't require any additional equipment. White LEDs can make your photos (and guests) look pale and sad, so **_get a light panel that includes yellow or orange LEDs so you can adjust the color temperature._** In the office we have a Neewer LED panel that works well for us.

![4 LED panels shining in different directions](/assets/blog/lights2.jpg)

**Ring lights:** The preferred constant lighting solution of the social media influencer, these are circular arrays of LEDs that fit around a camera lens and provide even illumination from every angle on the subject's face. They are great for close-up shots and portraits.

![a girl with her face close to a ring of LEDs](/assets/blog/lights5.jpg)

**Strobe flashes:** These lights emit a powerful burst of light like the one on your camera and are typically used in professional photography studios. They produce professional studio quality photos. To use a strobe flash your iPad must be connected to a USB camera, because the strobe flash syncs with the USB camera. Strobe flashes more expensive than constant lights and require more setup time, but **_if done well, will produce a sharper more professional image_**.

![A man setting up his strobe flashes](/assets/blog/lights4.jpg)

**Umbrella lights:** These strobe flashes are attached to an umbrella-shaped diffuser which helps to spread light and create a softer illumination. They are versatile for unique lighting requirements and can "bounce" light off of walls and objects. They are ideal for large venues and outdoor events because they can cover a wide area with light. However, umbrella lights can sometimes create harsher shadows than softboxes because the light is less directional. Best for covering large areas and outdoor events

![a light with a reflective umbrella](/assets/blog/lights1.jpg)

**Softboxes:** Similar to umbrella lights, but they diffuse light using a material to cover the opening of the umbrella, creating softer shadows on the subject. Softboxes are commonly used in studio photography because they provide a soft, even light that can be adjusted to the photographer's preference. They are easier to use than umbrellas because they don't require as much finesse to control the direction and intensity of the light. However, they are more expensive and difficult to set up than umbrella lights. It ultimately comes down to the photographer's preferences and the specific lighting needs of the project.

![two soft box lights around a black backdrop in a school gym](/assets/blog/lights3.jpg)

## Things to consider

1\. **Bring more than you think you'll need:** It is always better to be overprepared. Bring extra lighting equipment, including power bars, extension cords, and batteries, to ensure that you're ready for anything. Running out of power or not having the lights you need can ruin an otherwise successful event.

2\. **Position your lights strategically:** The position of your lights can make a significant difference in the final result of your photos. Consider the distance between the lights and the subject, as well as the angle at which they're pointed. There is no right or wrong answer here but a safe bet is to position your lights at a 45-degree angle to the subject to create contrast and shadows on the subject's face. And remember, the further away the light source is, the softer it will be.

3\. **Establish the dominant light source:** You should always do your best to be the one controlling the dominant light source. This means that your lighting should be the brightest and most consistent in the space. Establishing the dominant light source ensures that your photos will be well-lit and consistent, regardless of the changing ambient lighting conditions in the venue.  
 Tip: Scope out the venue before a few days before the event at the same time of day that the event is going to be. Figure out what and where the ambient and dominant light is. This will help you to determine a strategy for ideal lighting conditions.

4\. **Pay attention to color temperature:** Different types of lights have different color temperatures, which can affect the overall mood and tone of your photos. For example, tungsten bulbs emit warm, orange-toned light, while LED panels can be adjusted to emit cooler or warmer light. Be aware of the color temperature of your lighting equipment and adjust it as necessary to achieve the desired effect.

5\. **Use bouncing and diffusion techniques:** Bouncing light against a white wall or using a diffuser can help to soften the light and reduce harsh shadows on the subject's face. Soft light is generally more flattering and creates a more natural-looking photo. Experiment with different bouncing and diffusion techniques to find the ones that work best for your photo booth setup.

6\. **Keep a cool head:** Preparing for an event can be stressful, but it's important to stay calm to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Remember that your clients are counting on you to provide a fun and memorable experience, so take a deep breath and trust in your skills, equipment, and preparation. If you feel overwhelmed or anxious, take a break for a few minutes. Remember that mistakes can happen, and it's okay to ask for help if you need it. By staying relaxed you'll be able to handle any unexpected situations that may arise, and react with a clear head.

## Quick tips

- There are a lot of variables, so make one small change, take a photo, and check the results
- Experiment with different lighting techniques and equipment to find what works best for your setup
- Don't be afraid to ask for feedback from clients and mentors to improve your knowledge and skills
- Practice makes perfect, so keep practicing to hone your skills
- Keep in mind how incredible it is that you are creating memories for your clients

By keeping all of this in mind you'll be able to create well-lit and high-quality photos that your clients will cherish. Don't be afraid to experiment with different lighting techniques and equipment to find the ones that work best for your setup. With practice and experience you'll be able to create stunning photos that capture the real feeling of any event.


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