The favorite equipment of a real-life, photography-focused photo booth owner.

Are you dreaming of launching your own photo booth business but don’t know where to start? You're in the right place because I was there too!

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through my must-have equipment and supplies to kickstart your premium photo booth venture. My recommended products are just that: my personal favorites and what has worked best for Best Day Ever Booth. I’ll share what I love about each product, what’s not my favorite about it (because #keepitreal), and - when applicable - what I didn’t end up using!

I designed this guide for aspiring photo booth owners who would like to use a professional-grade camera (vs an iPad or tablet based photo booth), but there are helpful recommendations for anyone getting started.

Choosing the best photo booth equipment can be a daunting task - it was for me! - so I hope that my guide helps make the process a little less stressful for you!

Recommended Photo Booth Camera: Canon EOS M50 Mark II

The heart of any photo booth is the camera, and the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is what I use and love. It’s an excellent choice for a premium photo booth that offers profile-pic-worthy, high-resolution photos.

This mirrorless camera offers a perfect blend of quality, versatility, and ease of use.

Why I love it: Image Quality & Compact Size

When I decided that I wanted to start my own photo booth, I made capturing high-quality, gorgeous photos a tenet of my business. Having been a family photographer for 10+ years, I understand how significant photographs are to people, and I needed a photo booth camera that would produce stunning images straight-out-of-camera. I’ve been so happy with the Canon EOS M50 Mark II photo quality and so have my guests!

The compact size (3.47” high) made it a perfect fit for my photo booth shell (RBA Photobooth’s Vision). I first tried to use an older Canon Rebel T3i I had, but it was too tall on the camera platform of my Vision shell, and it was not as fast as I wanted.

Pros of a Canon EOS M50 Mark II for a photo booth:

• 24.1 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor for high-quality images

• Dual Pixel CMOS AF for fast and accurate autofocus *Note: I do not shoot sessions in autofocus because my software, DSLRBooth, does not love it. I will first put the camera in a smart setting to quickly grab focus using autofocus, then switch the camera back to Manual.

• Compact and lightweight design, perfect for portable photo booths *Note: The Canon EOS M50’s smaller profile (3.47” high) makes it a perfect fit for my photo booth shell even with my Godox X2T-C hot shoe trigger mounted on top.

Cons of a Canon EOS M50 Mark II for a photo booth:

• Viewfinder screen must be opened up in order to even use the camera.

• Lens has to be extended out in order to even use the camera.

• Battery time: I find that if I have the camera on for 2.5+ hours, I need to switch to a new battery mid-way through an event! I always have a backup, fully-charged battery ready, and I put the low battery into a charger immediately at the event.

• Canon discontinued this camera! I feel lucky I was able to find one at a reasonable price.

The camera I didn’t use for my photo booth:

Having been a family photographer for many years (i.e. I already had a stash of DSLR cameras!), I was hoping to start my photo booth business with a camera I already owned. The most compact option I had was a Canon Rebel T3i.

With my Godox X2T-C hot shoe trigger mounted on top, the Canon Rebel T3i was too tall; I couldn’t use the built-in manual tilt platform of my Vision shell. Since I love family events, this was a dealbreaker for me.

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II delivers professional-grade results in a user-friendly package, ensuring your clients receive stunning photos every time.

Additional Essential Supplies for your photo booth camera:

• ALWAYS have at least one charged backup battery: Backup battery for my camera -

• Hot Shoe Cover Cap to protect the pins where the hot shoe trigger connects: linked here

• Cable that connects my Surface Pro 7+ to my Canon EOS M50 Mark II: linked here

• High-capacity, high-quality SD Card: linked here

Recommended Photo Booth Printer: DNP DS620A

Instant printing was a whole new world to me; as a family photographer, I simply delivered images via an online gallery! I wanted a reliable, high-quality printer to match Best Day Ever Booth’s stunning digital images. While the digital images would live on guests’ phones or on social media, the prints are what they take home and put up on their fridge or a memory board!

The DNP DS620A is a top choice among photo booth professionals, and I am so happy that I chose it.

Why I love it: Size and Printing Options

I actually purchased a DNP RX1HS first, but I received a defective one (it died after 10 prints!) so was able to return it. I decided to switch to the DNP DS620: it’s been worth the slightly higher price to me because the size is ssoo much better! It’s easier to carry and lighter than the RX1HS.

I love that the DNP DS620 can print full 4x6, cut 2x6 print strips (my clients’ favorite print size!), and it can print glossy or matte.

Pros of a DNP DS620 Printer:

• Fast printing speeds (4x6" prints in just 8.3 seconds)

• High-capacity media rolls (up to 400 4x6" prints per roll)

• Multiple print sizes (2x6", 4x6", 6x8")

• Dye-sublimation technology for vibrant, long-lasting prints

• Compact design for easy transportation

• Energy-efficient operation

The included print media and bag ensure you're ready to go right out of the box, with everything you need to start printing professional-quality photos.

The printer I did not use for my photo booth:

I did not go with the DNP RX1HS printer for my photo booth. It was a blessing in disguise that I was sent a defective one, because I was able to see how heavy and bulky it is in person!

Additional Essential Supplies for your photo booth printer:

• Print Media - I always have at least one full paper roll and one full dye-roll for backup: linked here

• Cable to connect Surface Pro 7+ to printer: linked here

• Optional (I didn’t start with this, but I invested in one soon after!) RBA Printer Cover: linked here

Recommended Photo Booth Flash Lighting: Godox MS300V LED

I was a natural light family photographer, so figuring out photo booth lighting was a new world for me! However, I knew that proper lighting is essential for capturing flattering, high-quality images.

I went with the Godox MS300V LED light: it is an excellent choice for photo booth setups and works perfectly for my events. This strobe connects to my camera wirelessly via the Godox X2T-C Trigger, which connects to my camera’s hot shoe mount.

What I love it: Price & LED Bulb

The Godox MS300V is a great entry price and compact size for a photo booth flash. I love the LED bulb (I actually bought a non-LED flash first…it got SO HOT!!) , and it provides such flattering light.

Pros of a Godox MS300V photo booth flash:

• Powerful 300W output for ample illumination

• LED technology for cool operation and energy efficiency

• Adjustable color temperature (3000K-6000K) for versatile lighting options

• Stepless dimming from 1% to 100%

• Built-in wireless receiver for easy control

• Compact and lightweight design for easy setup and transportation

The Godox MS300V LED light provides consistent, high-quality lighting that will make your guests look their best in every shot.

The flash I did not use for my photo booth:

The Godox MS300. I accidentally bought this non-LED flash first…big mistake…huge!

Additional Essential Supplies for your photo booth flash:

• Godox X2TC Wireless Trigger: linked here

• Bowens Mount 7” Reflector with an umbrella hole (the Godox MS300V comes with a diffuser, but there’s no umbrella hole!): linked here

• Neewer 33" Reflective Flash Translucent White Umbrella: linked here

Recommended Photo Booth Tablet: Surface Pro 7+

There are so many different photo booth options out there, but I knew that I wanted to 1.) choose my own camera, and 2.) have a removable screen that I could work on outside of the photo booth shell.

After a lottttt of research, I knew that definitely wanted an RBA T11 photo booth shell, and their shells are made for 12.3” Surface Pros! I use a MacBookPro as my work computer (I am typing this blog article on one riiight now haha), but my Surface Pro 7+ has been a great tablet for my photo booth.

A powerful and versatile tablet is essential for running your photo booth software and interacting with customers. The Surface Pro 7+ tablet is an excellent choice for this purpose.

What I love about it: Touchscreen & Display

The Surface Pro 7+ has a responsive touch screen, which is essential when operating the photo booth for my guests. I also have my software set to display each image after it’s taken - and guests love being able to see how amazing they looked!

Pros of a Surface Pro 7+ for a photo booth:

• Powerful Intel Core processors for smooth operation

• High-resolution touchscreen display for easy interaction

• Windows operating system for compatibility with a wide range of photo booth software

• Versatile 2-in-1 design (tablet and laptop modes)

• Long battery life for extended use during events

• Lightweight and portable for easy transportation

The Surface Pro's combination of power and portability makes it an ideal choice for managing your photo booth operations.

Recommended Photo Booth Shell: RBA Photobooth's Vision Photo Booth Shell

As I’ve mentioned in this article, it was very important to me when starting my photo booth that I choose my own camera and have a removable computer as my touchscreen. I didn’t want a photo booth with everything built-in!

After one kind-of-sketchy-seeming company (I won’t name names)…I was THRILLED to find RBA Photobooths. I am not endorsed or affiliated with them at all, I have just loved their service and what I’ve received from them!

I will say…I bought the kit with the included rolling carrying case, and I can’t imagine NOT having the case. It comes packaged perfectly with foam inserts, shuts securely and can even be locked.

What I love about it: the Look and Functionality

The Best Day Ever Booth vibe is simple and clean, so I loved the T11 Vision’s all-white exterior. If I want to get fancy (and have time during setup!), I do turn on the included LED lighting, but I think it looks beautiful as is. I even added some of my own branding to it!

The T11 Vision is the perfect photo booth shell for someone who wants to be able to use their own camera and remove the computer!

Pros of a T11 Vision Photo Booth Shell:

• Sleek, modern design that looks great at any event

• Durable construction for long-lasting use

• Easy assembly and disassembly for quick setup and tear-down

• Compact when folded for easy transportation and storage

• Integrated lighting and camera mounts for a professional look

• AMAZING customer service

The Vision Photo Booth Shell from RBA Photobooth elevates your setup, giving it a polished, professional appearance that will impress clients and guests alike. You are able to use your camera, remove the computer, and mount your own flash!

Additional Essential Supplies:

To complete your photo booth kit, consider adding these items:

1. Backdrop and Stand: A variety of backdrop options and a sturdy stand will allow you to customize your booth for different events.

   • I bought this backdrop and stand: 8x8 Aluminum Tension Fabric Stand. This backdrop stand is perfect for my photobooth because I love being able to fit large groups into the shot! It’s also not too heavy and assembles quickly. It looks quite sleek when set up!

2. Props and Accessories: Fun props like hats, glasses, and signs will encourage creativity and engagement from your guests.

3. Business Cards and Marketing Materials: Promote your business and capture leads at every event.

Starting Your Photo Booth Business: Next Steps

Now that you're familiar with the essential equipment and supplies, here are some steps to launch your photo booth business:

1. Develop a business plan and set pricing strategies.

2. Register your business and obtain necessary licenses and insurance.

3. Create a website and social media presence to showcase your services.

4. Network with event planners, wedding venues, and corporate event organizers.

5. Practice setting up and operating your equipment to ensure smooth events.

Remember, success in the photo booth business comes from a combination of quality equipment, excellent customer service, and a sharp eye for capturing memorable moments. With the gear we've discussed in this article, you'll be well on your way to building a thriving premium photo booth business.

Are you ready to start your photo booth adventure? With this comprehensive list of must-have equipment and supplies, you're equipped to provide a top-notch photo booth experience for your clients. Happy snapping!s

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