You might be surprised to know that I, as a documentary wedding photographer, love photo booths. It might sound incongruous to what I do, but when a wedding has a photo booth, it actually works hugely in my favour for two reasons. Firstly, it means that it fulfils the wishes of any guests who want to play up to the camera - so that they are far less likely to do so where I'm present, and so I get much more truthful documentary wedding images. Secondly, the photo booth operator is often very happy to keep the booth curtain open, so that I can watch and photograph the silliness occurring inside from a reportage angle.
So yes, I love working at weddings where I know a photo booth is going to be a part of the evening reception entertainment. I've seen all sorts of booths - from the entirely home made affairs which are little more than a table and a box of props - to amazingly themed and sophisticated affairs. One, my particular favourite, was even decorated in the style of Sherlock Holmes' residence, 221B Baker Street. Imagine!
So let's take a look at this photobooth image, and why I like it so much. Of course, I love the interaction between the group of chaps who have squashed themselves into the booth - I love the expressions, the props they're using, and I particularly love the crown falling off the head of the chap in front and the motion blur of his hand as he rushes to seat it back on his head in time for the photograph. I also like the fact that I've been able to capture the photobooth operator looking on, for he is undoubtedly a key part of the story. But mostly, I love the joy in the image. That's what weddings are all about, after all - a joyful, memorable event for everyone involved.
So if you're currently planning your wedding in Dorset or Somerset and want to bring an added shot of joy to your celebrations, it's worth thinking about a photo booth - and I have lots of recommendations if you need some inspiration!
