Capture Candid Joy: Fun Alternatives to a Photobooth for your Italian Wedding

Are you looking for something that can add a touch lighthearted fun to your celebration? A photobooth is the right answer! It’s something that you can arrange all by yourselves, and you can decide how much effort to put in it. We saw every kind of photobooth at our weddings, so here’s some ideas that you can use for your own!

1. Polaroid Cameras:

These instant film cameras offer a unique charm and a touch of nostalgia. It’s something that you can do very easily, and it’s also quit a cheap option! Also, your guests will have a lot of fun, shaking the photos with anticipation as the image develops before their eyes!

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Camera: We recommend the Fuji Instax Mini -for less than 100 €!- for its compact size and high-quality photos.
• Film: Get enough film cartridges for your estimated number of guests. Remember, some “accidental” snaps may occur!
• Guest Book or Album: Provide a beautiful guest book or a decorative album where guests can stick their photos and write messages. This becomes a cherished keepsake filled with genuine emotions.
• Batteries & Fun Props: Have a few extra batteries on hand. You can also add a basket of playful props like hats, boas, or mustaches to encourage silly and memorable photos.

2. Unleash the Power of Portable Photo Printers:

Technology meets instant gratification with portable photo printers! Guests can take photos using their smartphones and then instantly print them out using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity.

Here’s what to consider:

• Portable Printer: Popular brands include Polaroid, Fujifilm, Xiaomi and Kodak, each offering slightly different features. Research for one that suits your budget and printing preferences. Here’s a good example for 60 euros, or here’s a more expensive option!
• Instructions: Create a simple, eye-catching sign explaining how to use the printer. Encourage guests to participate and share their photos!
• Dedicated Guest: If you have a tech-savvy friend or family member, consider assigning them the task of managing the printer and assisting any guests who need help.

3. Considering a Photobooth Rental:

If you prefer a more structured photo booth experience, consider renting a photo booth machine. These self-contained units often come with fun backdrops, a variety of props, and instant printing capabilities. Here are a few reputable Italian companies offering photo booth rentals:

• Prontophot (Switzerland): While based in Switzerland, some of your Swiss guests might be willing to transport a Prontophot machine for your wedding.
• Over the Box (Milan and Florence): If you’re located in Milan or Florence, Over the Box offers a convenient option for renting a high-quality photo booth.
• Sharingbox (Milan): Another great choice for Milan-based weddings, Sharingbox provides photo booth rentals to capture the merriment of your celebration.

4. Create a Themed Backdrop:

Transform a dedicated space into a whimsical photo haven! Decorate a backdrop with beautiful drapery, vibrant flowers, balloons, or fairy lights depending on your wedding theme. You can even add fun signage or custom hashtags to encourage guests to share their snaps on social media.

5. Channel Your Inner Artist with a Live Illustrator:

Hire a talented caricaturist to create lighthearted sketches of your guests. These personalized drawings become a unique memento of the day, adding a touch of artistic flair to your celebration.

For live guest’s portraits at your wedding, you can contact

• Paperbird,
• Mirti Illustrations,
• Enza Valente,
• Cristina Nori,
• Mery Saporito.

6. Capture the Crowd with a Giant Jenga Game:

This isn’t your standard photo booth, but it definitely creates fun and unexpected moments! Set up a giant Jenga game and encourage guests to take photos as they carefully remove blocks. The suspense and potential for hilarious tumbles make for fantastic candid photography opportunities.

Bonus Tip: Utilize Social Media Integration or dedicated Apps

Integrate social media into your photo-taking fun! Create a custom wedding hashtag and encourage guests to share their snaps with that tag. You can even set up a space with a charging station and a designated area for guests to take selfies or group photos.

Another economic and nice options is using some deidcated Apps for sharing the wedding photos: you can print some nice QR codes on the tables and you’ll be able to see all of your guests’ photos directly on the App. You can check services as Wedding Photos Swap or Kululu!

The Choice is Yours!

When deciding on the best way to capture candid moments at your Italian wedding, consider the overall theme and vibe you’re aiming for. Whether you choose the simplicity of Polaroid cameras, the technological ease of portable printers, the interactive fun of a themed backdrop, or the artistic flair of a caricaturist, there’s a perfect option waiting to add a touch of magic to your special day.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

• Budget: Set a realistic budget for your chosen photo-taking alternative.
• Location: Choose a designated space for your chosen option, ensuring good lighting and easy accessibility for guests.
• Supervision: Consider assigning someone to keep an eye on the cameras or printer to ensure they’re running smoothly and address any guest inquiries.

With a little planning and creativity, you can create a space for your guests to capture their own piece of your Italian wedding story!