How Much Does It Really Cost to Start a Photo Booth Business in 2025?

So, you're thinking about jumping into the photo booth business—great move! With events like weddings, corporate parties, and brand activations in high demand, photo booths have become a popular and profitable service. But how much does it actually cost to start one?

Let’s break down the real costs so you can budget smart and launch confidently.

1. The Photo Booth Equipment: $2,000–$12,000+

This is your biggest upfront investment and where quality truly matters.

👉 iPad-Based Booths ($2,000–$5,000)

• iPad (iPad Pro recommended): $1,000–$1,500

• Ring light or LED shell: $300–$1,000

• Stand/enclosure: $500–$1,000

• Photo booth app subscription (like LumaBooth, Snappic, etc.): $20–$100/month

Best for: Beginners or part-time operators. Portable, easy-to-use, and affordable.

👉 DSLR-Based Booths ($5,000–$12,000+)

• DSLR camera (Canon EOS Rebel or better): $800–$2,000

• Flash & lighting system: $300–$1,000

• Touchscreen monitor/tablet: $300–$700

• Photo booth enclosure or shell: $1,000–$3,000

• Photo booth software (e.g. Darkroom Booth): $295–$500 one-time

• Laptop: $800–$1,500

Best for: Premium events and higher pricing power. Better photo quality, but more setup and learning curve.

2. Printer & Media (Optional): $700–$2,000

If you want to offer instant prints:

• Dye-sub printer (DNP, Mitsubishi, etc.): $600–$1,200

• Media kit (ink + paper for 400–600 prints): $100–$200 per kit

Some businesses skip printing altogether and go digital-only. That cuts costs and appeals to eco-conscious events.

3. Branding & Marketing: $500–$3,000

You’ll need:

• Logo & branding assets: $100–$800 (DIY or pro)

• Website: $200–$1,000 (template or custom build)

• Domain & hosting: ~$100/year

• Business cards, brochures, promo materials: $100–$500

• Paid ads or launch campaign: Optional but recommended

Pro tip: A professional brand can instantly elevate your perceived value and allow you to charge premium rates.

4. Props & Backdrops: $200–$1,000

Props add personality. You’ll need:

• Fun signs, glasses, hats, etc.: $100–$300

• One or two quality backdrops: $100–$300 each

• Optional: Green screen, flower wall, or inflatable enclosure

Custom or high-end setups can be a great upsell for clients later on.

5. Business Essentials: $300–$1,000+

Don’t skip the paperwork:

• Business registration & license (varies by province/state): $100–$500

• Liability insurance: $200–$500 annually

• Contracts and service agreements: DIY or legal templates ($50–$300)

Being legally protected is critical when working events.

6. Transportation & Storage: $0–$2,000

Do you have a vehicle that can fit your booth? If not, you may need to rent or purchase a van or cargo trailer. Also budget for cases, bins, or rolling bags to keep things organized and protected.

✅ Total Startup Cost Estimate

Type of SetupEstimated CostBudget (iPad booth, DIY branding)$2,500–$4,000Mid-Range (iPad or DSLR, pro branding, prints)$5,000–$8,000Premium (DSLR, full setup, marketing, prints)$8,000–$12,000+

💡 Final Thoughts

Starting a photo booth business is more accessible than ever. Whether you go budget-friendly or full luxury, the key is understanding your market and offering a memorable experience. Many entrepreneurs see a return on investment within 6–12 months, especially if they focus on weddings, corporate events, and weekend gigs.

If you're ready to dive in, take your time to source the right equipment, build a strong brand, and start small if needed. Every successful booth business started with just one booking.

Need help choosing the right booth or branding your new business? Boother Collective offers retro-inspired photo booths designed for modern pros. Reach out today and let’s build your vision!