Photo booth props have become a key element in transforming a simple photo booth session into a lively and creative experience. These playful accessories, ranging from quirky hats and oversized glasses to themed signs and moustaches on sticks, allow guests to express themselves and have a blast in front of the camera. They add a layer of personality and excitement, encouraging spontaneity and laughter, making the overall instant photo booth experience more engaging.
For event planners looking to maximise the impact of their photo booth without stretching the budget, DIY photo booth props offer a cost-effective solution. By creating custom, theme-specific props, planners can save on rental costs while adding a personal touch to the event, ensuring that the booth reflects the unique vibe of the occasion. Setting up a photo booth for an event with just a few arts and crafts supplies like foam board, acrylic paint, craft glue, brushes, as well as patience, you can create a lot of options to expand your prop selection.
If you’re interested in trying your hand at making these integral photo booth components, read on as we go over some of the must-have props you can start making today!
1. Oversized funky shades
Oversized shades or sunglasses are a staple of any photo booth prop, and thankfully, they’re pretty straightforward to make. Start by drawing a large, exaggerated sunglasses shape onto coloured cardstock or foam sheets. Make sure the frames are oversized for a fun, funky look. Cut out the shape, including the spaces for the ‘lenses’, along with clear plastic or cellophane for the lens spaces. Glue the latter in place behind the frames. Next, decorate the frames with glitter, stickers, or paint to make them stand out and then finally, attach a craft stick to one side of the shades for easy holding, or use an elastic band for a hands-free option.
2. Moustache on a stick
This universally loved prop is one of the easiest to make and often requires just three materials, namely 10-inch lollipop sticks or something similar, scissors, a glue gun, and heavy-weight cardstock in your favourite colours. Draw and cut out the classic moustache shape from the cardstock, secure it to the end of the stick with hot glue, and there you have it! For an extra twist, consider making extras of these in various moustache styles, like the comical Chaplin or the more sophisticated handlebar moustache. Mix and match sizes and colours to create an amusing variety of props that your guests are sure to love!
3. Custom photo frames
Custom frames not only serve as great props but are also a perfect way to spread the word about your event’s hashtag if you’re using one. The first step is to mark out your frame’s overall shape as well as the hole inside it on a foam board. A good idea would be to use a Polaroid picture as inspiration and go from there. Cut out the frame and the inner hole, and then straighten out the edges if needed. Next, you may want to paint the board in a different colour and then apply vinyl decals or write your hashtag or message once it dries. Add the final touch by glueing fairy lights, ribbons, paper flowers, and other decorations that fit your event’s theme.
4. Gleaming crowns
Make your guests feel like kings or queens by providing them with crowns that let them live out their royalty fantasies in the camera. To make a simple crown, draw and cut a crown shape from the gold or silver cardstock or glitter foam sheet while making sure the size can wrap around the head comfortably and be adjusted as needed. Decorate the crown with stick-on gems, glitter, or even small beads to give it a regal, eye-catching appearance. Then, create two small holes on either side of the crown and thread elastic string or ribbon through them. Tie the string to secure it – this will allow the crown to stay on when worn. For added durability, consider glueing a second piece of cardstock or foam on the inside of the crown.
5. Toy weapons
These include everything from pirate swords to pistols and everything else that fits in your event’s theme. When it comes to these props, foam board is your best friend, specifically insulation foam board. Simply trace the design on the board and then cut it out using a fine-toothed saw or keyhole saw to make things easier, smooth out the final piece with sandpaper, and paint over the final design.
6. Fairy wands
Add a touch of magic to your pictures with some sparkling wands and make your poses look more enchanting. Crafting these props is as simple as getting some wooden dowels and attaching ribbons and glitter to their ends. Alternatively, if you have a specific wand in mind, like those from your favourite characters, you will need a bit more supplies and some references to perfectly capture their image.
Conclusion
Creating your own DIY photo booth props is a fun and budget-friendly way to add a personal touch to any event. From oversized funky shades to superhero masks and whimsical speech bubbles, these props bring creativity and laughter to the photo booth experience. Plus, DIY props give you the freedom to experiment with different materials and designs, making the process just as enjoyable as the event itself. So, grab some craft supplies and go DIY – your guests will love it!
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