Props are the secret ingredient of a great photobooth strip. The right photobooth props help shy guests loosen up, add personality to every frame and give your pictures a theme.
Why Props Matter
Most people feel awkward when a camera is pointing at them and they have nothing to do with their hands. A prop solves both problems at once. It gives a reason to move, a reason to laugh and a talking point for the strip. Props also make photos instantly recognisable as coming from your event, because the theme appears in every picture.
Classic Photobooth Props
- Oversized glasses and sunglasses
- Paper moustaches and lips on sticks
- Hats, crowns and tiaras
- Feather boas and bow ties
- Speech bubbles with funny phrases
- Frames and empty picture borders to hold up
These never go out of style, they are cheap and they photograph clearly because they have bold shapes.
Props For Weddings
Choose elegant and playful items: “Mr” and “Mrs” signs, pearls, top hats, veils, champagne glass cut-outs, fans and speech bubbles with phrases such as “Cheers to the happy couple.” Keep colours within the wedding palette so the strip looks coordinated. Our wedding photobooth ideas explain how to place and style the booth.
Props For Birthdays And Kids’ Parties
Use age numbers, party hats, balloons, superhero masks, animal ears and big “Happy Birthday” signs. For children, choose lightweight props on sturdy sticks, avoid small parts that could be swallowed and supervise use. A short countdown with a longer delay gives younger guests time to find their favourite item.
Props For Corporate And Themed Events
Print speech bubbles with brand slogans, event hashtags, job titles and in-jokes. A branded sign makes every strip a small advertisement, and guests are more likely to share it. For themed parties, match the era or style: retro sunglasses for the seventies, neon accessories for the eighties and sports gear for a game night. See also our photobooth ideas for events.
DIY Props On A Budget
You can make excellent props with cardstock, markers, scissors and wooden skewers or paint stirrers. Cut out shapes, colour them boldly and tape them to the stick. Printing templates on thick paper saves time, and laminating or wrapping props in clear tape makes them last for the whole party. Stack them in a basket or hang them on a pegboard so guests can pick them easily. Pair them with a simple backdrop from our backdrop ideas and a DIY photobooth setup for a complete low-cost booth.
How Many Props Do You Need?
Aim for a variety rather than a huge pile. Around twenty to thirty props is plenty for a moderate gathering, with a mix of items worn on the head, held on sticks and signs with words. Replace broken props during the event and keep a spare box nearby.
Tips For Using Props In Photos
- Hold props near your face but not covering it.
- Choose bold colours that contrast with the backdrop.
- Swap props between frames to make each photo different.
- Use words on signs that are large and readable.
- Remember the camera mirrors the image, so avoid text that must be read correctly unless the booth flips it.
For pose inspiration to pair with your props, see best photobooth poses.
Try it now: use the free online photobooth to practise, pick a filter and download your strip. No sign-up, and your photos never leave your browser.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best photobooth props?
Glasses, hats, moustaches, speech bubbles and handwritten signs are the most popular because they are bold, light and easy to use.
How do I make photobooth props at home?
Print or draw shapes on cardstock, cut them out and tape them to wooden sticks. Laminate or cover with clear tape to make them last.
Do I need props for an online photobooth?
No, but household items such as hats, scarves and signs work well and make the strips more fun.
