02 October 25 - Photo Booth vs Open-Air Photo Booth: Which Suits Your Event Best?

Photo booths have become one of the most popular entertainment add-ons for weddings, parties, and corporate events across the Midlands. They’re fun, interactive, and create lasting memories for your guests. But when you’re booking one, you’ll often face a key decision: traditional enclosed photo booth or open-air photo booth?

Both have their advantages — and the right choice depends on your event style, venue, and guest experience. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which is best for your occasion.


🎪 Traditional Enclosed Photo Booth

What it is:
The classic booth style — an enclosed pod or kiosk where guests step inside, pull a curtain, and take photos in private.

Pros:

  • Privacy = confidence – Guests can relax and be silly without feeling watched.

  • Instant nostalgia – The enclosed booth has a classic photo-strip feel.

  • Compact footprint – Great for smaller venues with limited space.

  • Simple experience – Guests sit or stand inside and follow easy instructions.

Best for:
Weddings, birthdays, or smaller indoor venues where intimacy and privacy matter.


📸 Open-Air Photo Booth

What it is:
A modern setup where the camera and backdrop are in the open, allowing larger groups to gather for photos.

Pros:

  • More people, more fun – Perfect for big group shots that a closed booth can’t handle.

  • Custom backdrops – Choose from sequins, flower walls, branded signage, or even your venue’s scenery.

  • Better lighting – Professional lighting setups mean sharper, high-quality images.

  • Inclusive – Guests with mobility needs can join in more easily.

Best for:
Corporate events, large weddings, outdoor parties, or any celebration where you want big group energy and a statement setup.


🤔 Key Factors to Consider

  1. Venue Space – Smaller venues may work better with an enclosed booth, while open-air booths need more room.

  2. Guest List Size – More guests = open-air often makes sense.

  3. Event Style – A traditional booth adds nostalgia; an open-air booth feels modern and flexible.

  4. Photo Output – Both can print instantly, but open-air booths often allow digital sharing and bigger prints.

  5. Budget – Costs vary, but open-air booths with custom backdrops can be slightly higher due to setup.


✅ Why Not Both?

Some events combine the two: a classic booth for photo strips and an open-air booth for group shots. This works especially well at large weddings or corporate functions where variety is key.


🎉 Making Your Choice

Both photo booth styles can elevate your event — it really comes down to the atmosphere you want to create.

At Midlands Entertainment UK, we provide enclosed and open-air photo booths, with full setup, props, and instant prints included. Whether you’re after classic nostalgia or a modern party centrepiece, we’ll make sure your guests leave with a smile (and a photo in hand!).

📲 Ready to choose your booth?
👉 Visit www.midlandsentertainmentuk.co.uk or call 07472 324071 today to check availability.

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