What Equipment Do You Need to Start a Photo Booth Business?

Starting a photo booth business is one of the most exciting and profitable side hustles or full-time ventures you can launch—especially if you love working events, making people laugh, and capturing memories. But one of the first questions new entrepreneurs ask is: What equipment do you need to start a photo booth business?

In this guide, we’ll break down all the essential equipment, optional add-ons, and helpful tools you might need based on your budget and business goals.

Disclaimer: The following suggestions are based on PBSCO owner feedback, common industry standards, and product recommendations from Photobooth Supply Co. Costs and requirements may vary depending on your region and event type.

Essential Equipment to Start a Photo Booth Business

1. Photo Booth Unit (Hardware)

This is your primary investment. There are a few different booth types to choose from:

• iPad-based Booths: Lightweight, portable, and simple to use. Ideal for beginners.

  • Example: Salsa Booth

• DSLR Booths: Offer higher image quality and more advanced features. Great for luxury or high-volume events.

  • Example: Guac & Chips Booth
    

• 360 Booths: Create immersive video experiences. Higher earning potential, often used for corporate activations.

  • Example: Tortilla 360

Pro Tip: Choose your booth based on your ideal client. Are you aiming for weddings, parties, or corporate gigs?

2. Camera or iPad

Depending on the booth type, you’ll need either:

• A recent iPad with good front-facing camera (e.g., iPad Pro or Air models)

• (Sometimes) A DSLR or Mirrorless camera with lens and flash. However, some models, such as the Guac & Chips come with this already included. 

3. Lighting

Good lighting is non-negotiable. Built-in ring lights work great for iPad booths, while DSLR setups benefit from external flashes or soft box lighting. When in doubt, more lighting is rarely a bad thing! Look into wand lights for additional lighting for dark set ups.

4. Software

You’ll need software to run the booth, take photos/videos, and deliver digital files to guests.

Recommended: Fiesta by PBSCO

• Offers branding tools, digital galleries, and lead capture

• Monthly or annual subscription models

5. Backdrop

A collapsible fabric or tension backdrop creates a professional setting for guests. Some popular options include:

• Sequin or shimmer walls

• Custom printed backdrops

• Green screens (for digital effects)

Optional But Recommended Equipment

6. Props

Props are great icebreakers and add fun to any session. Options include:

• Hats, glasses, signs, masks

• Digital props (through software like Fiesta)

7. Printer

Offering printed photos can increase your pricing and guest satisfaction. You’ll need:

• A dye-sublimation printer (like DNP RX1HS)

• Print media (paper + ink ribbon)

• Power source and table space at events

Disclaimer: Not every market demands prints. Start digital-only if you're keeping startup costs low.

8. Carrying Cases

Protect your gear with custom-fit travel cases or padded bags. Especially important if you plan to transport often. 

Note: All Photobooth Supply Co booths come with a carrying case included, but not all manufacturers do. 

9. Wi-Fi Hotspot

A portable hotspot ensures you can upload galleries, emails, or send files even if venues don’t provide internet.

Bonus Tools to Simplify Your Operations

• CRM or Booking System: Manage leads, contracts, and invoices. (Highly recommended)

• Tablet Stand or Secondary Sharing Station: Let guests view galleries or share images.

• Payment Processor: Use Square, Stripe, or PayPal for easy transactions.

• Marketing Materials: Business cards, signs, social handles, or QR codes

  • Photobooth Supply Co includes marketing materials with every booth purchase.

Final Thoughts: What Equipment Do You Need to Start a Photo Booth Business?

Whether you’re building a lean DIY setup or going all-in with a premium PBSCO booth, the right equipment is key to creating an incredible guest experience and building a profitable business. Start with the essentials, then scale your gear as you grow.

Want to see the best photo booth options side-by-side? Check out the PBSCO photo booth comparison chart.

Ready to take the first step? Download your free photo booth business starter guide and learn how to turn your gear into a growing business.