How I Built a Custom DIY Photo Booth for Weddings and Events

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I’m photographer John Nakatsu of K+J Studios based out of Seattle, and in this post I will share a step-by-step account of how I made a photo booth for weddings and events.

Some of the materials included a Canon T3i DSLR, white ABS sheeting, Microsoft Surface Pro 1, USB fans, USB 3.0 powered hub, a DNP DS40 printer, and various other stuff.

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First, cutting the plywood to size. The box is essentially a custom road case. I used 3/8″ sanded plywood for the sides. The edges are held together with aluminum extrusions.

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We used aluminum throughout to help strengthen the photo booth without adding too much weight. Some 2x4s and a 2×6 attached to some aluminum for stability. This will be the bottom.

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I originally planned on having it mounted on a speaker stand. Here we are drilling the holes for the speaker mount. It works, but is kind of a pain to lift everything up onto the stand so I just sit it on a table instead now. I can still mount it if I ever need to! The stand is meant for large speakers and can accommodate up to 150lbs.

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This is some aluminum U-channel that will be used to hold the Surface.
This is some aluminum U-channel that will be used to hold the Surface.
Holes cut out for the Surface and camera.
Holes cut out for the Surface and camera.
More holes for the fans and cords.
More holes for the fans and cords.
Cross bar for support.
Cross bar for support.

Test fitting the camera, printer, and tablet. The software is DSLR Remote Pro by Breeze Systems.

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Covering the plywood with ABS sheeting.

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Creating the door slot.

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Adding an air intake fan with a filter to keep dust out, and putting everything together inside. Lots of zip ties and velcro.

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I also got a folding cart to make moving everything a bit easier. The printer is removed for transport since it weighs over 30lbs. The other tubs have my props, a hand steamer for the backdrop, the backdrop, the printer, and some other various things. The backdrop and light stands are in the bag in the front. The Pelicans have my photo and video gear.

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The finished product.

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About the author: John Nakatsu is a professional photographer and one of the two men behind K+J Studios in Seattle, Washington, which offers a blend of photojournalism, relaxed portraits and a fashion shoot for weddings. More information about their photo booth service can be found here.

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