Photo booth props are a fun way to add personality and charm to any event. They make photos more engaging, help guests relax, and bring your party theme to life. Here are the top 7 props that can transform your photo booth experience:
- Oversized Sunglasses: Bright, bold, and playful, they fit any occasion, from weddings to tropical parties.
- Vintage Photo Frames: Add elegance and a nostalgic vibe, perfect for weddings or rustic gatherings.
- Themed Hats and Wigs: From fedoras to neon wigs, these props let guests embrace new personas and have fun.
- Emoji Masks and Face Props: Bring digital expressions to life, great for kids, teens, and social media-friendly events.
- Inflatable Props: Think giant flamingos or guitars – perfect for adding whimsy and energy to group shots.
- Custom Hashtag and Speech Bubble Signs: Personalised messages and hashtags that make photos shareable and unique.
- Life-Size Cutouts and 3D Props: Eye-catching pieces that double as décor and interactive photo props.
These props aren’t just for fun – they help guests connect, relax, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or corporate event, the right props can elevate the atmosphere and ensure your event stands out.
DIY: Photobooth and Props for Parties
1. Oversized Sunglasses
Oversized sunglasses bring a fun and playful energy to any themed party. These iconic props instantly elevate photos, turning them into share-worthy moments that guests love posting on social media. Their universal charm ensures that people of all ages feel comfortable striking a pose with these bold frames.
"Big and bright shades are always a hit." – Stay Golden Photo Booth
Perfect for Themed Events
One of the best things about oversized sunglasses is how easily they can be customised to suit your event’s theme. For birthdays or casual parties, you can opt for funky designs featuring hearts, stars, or neon colours to inject energy into every shot.
For weddings, romantic styles like heart-shaped frames or elegant gold-rimmed options add a touch of sophistication. Meanwhile, summer parties or holiday celebrations – like Australia Day – are perfectly complemented by tropical-themed frames or oversized aviators, creating a relaxed and festive vibe.
Adding Fun and Breaking the Ice
"Props like oversized sunglasses, feather boas, or funny hats add instant energy to group shots." – InstaSnap Photobooth
Oversized sunglasses are more than just a photo prop – they’re conversation starters. They break the ice, encouraging even the shyest guests to join in the fun. The instant transformation they provide leads to genuine smiles and spontaneous poses, making every photo a hit. Choosing durable materials ensures these props can handle the excitement and enthusiastic handling throughout the event.
Ideal for Any Event
These sunglasses fit seamlessly into a wide variety of events. At corporate gatherings, they act as a light-hearted icebreaker during team photos or networking sessions. Their broad appeal makes them a hit at family events, too, ensuring guests of all generations can join in the fun.
For themed parties, oversized sunglasses are an essential prop. Whether it’s a retro ’70s disco, a glamorous Hollywood soirée, or a tropical luau, they tie the theme together beautifully. Not only do they enhance the visual appeal of photos, but they also help create a cohesive atmosphere that brings your party to life. This simple yet versatile accessory opens the door to endless creative possibilities.
2. Vintage Photo Frames
Vintage photo frames bring a touch of timeless elegance to any photo booth setup, offering a charming counterbalance to the playful vibe of oversized sunglasses.
These classic props transform snapshots into keepsakes by framing guests in a portrait-like setting. With their ornate details and antique finishes, vintage frames add sophistication to every photograph, creating a look that feels both nostalgic and refined.
Unlike the sleek, modern designs of today, vintage frames stand out with their unique character and appeal. Whether it’s a baroque-style gold frame or a rustic wooden design, these props evoke a sense of nostalgia that resonates with people of all ages. Their classic charm also makes them highly adaptable for a variety of themed events.
Customisability for Themed Events
Vintage photo frames can seamlessly fit into almost any party theme while maintaining their timeless allure. For a Great Gatsby or 1920s-themed party, ornate gold frames with intricate detailing perfectly capture the glitz and glamour of the era.
Rustic weddings benefit from distressed wooden frames that enhance the countryside aesthetic. On the other hand, Victorian-themed celebrations shine with elaborate frames featuring detailed scrollwork and rich finishes, transporting guests to a bygone era.
For garden parties or vintage tea gatherings, floral-adorned frames or those in soft pastel hues complement the setting beautifully. Their versatility means you can easily match these frames to your event’s colour scheme, choosing tones and finishes that tie everything together effortlessly.
Adding Fun and Interaction
These frames aren’t just stylish; they’re also incredibly interactive. Guests love the creative possibilities they offer, using them to strike everything from formal poses to playful and quirky shots. The frame itself acts as a natural boundary, helping guests compose their photos more effectively, resulting in polished and artistic images.
Vintage frames are especially great for group photos, serving as a focal point that encourages people to gather closer and interact more naturally. This often leads to genuine expressions and lively group dynamics, making for unforgettable pictures.
There’s also something special about the tactile experience of holding a beautifully crafted frame. Guests often take time to admire the intricate details, which can spark conversations – especially in events where attendees might not know each other well.
Perfect for a Range of Events
Vintage photo frames work beautifully for weddings, milestone birthdays, and even corporate events. They strike a balance between elegance and fun, making them ideal for creating memorable photo moments. Their classic style feels polished yet inviting, which is perfect for company celebrations, award nights, or client appreciation events where you want to encourage participation while maintaining a professional touch.
3. Themed Hats and Wigs
Themed hats and wigs bring instant charm to photo booth sessions, letting guests step into completely new personas with just one accessory. These props don’t just enhance the event’s vibe – they ensure every photo captures a unique story and a lot of personality.
A simple hat or wig can work wonders. A fedora might turn a shy guest into a confident private eye, while a neon pink wig could reveal someone’s inner rock star. This playful transformation often encourages even the most reserved guests to jump into the fun, creating lively and memorable photo booth moments.
Once a guest puts on a hat or wig, it often becomes part of their on-camera identity. These accessories inspire creative poses, expressions, and interactions, resulting in dynamic photos full of genuine energy and spontaneity.
Customisation for Themed Events
Themed hats and wigs are incredibly versatile, making them a great match for almost any party theme.
- Hollywood glamour nights come alive with feathered headpieces, vintage berets, and wigs styled in classic Hollywood waves, transporting guests back to the golden age of cinema.
- Decades-themed parties thrive with era-specific options. Think mod caps and bouffant wigs for the swinging sixties, afro wigs and shiny headbands for disco nights, or neon wigs and bold headbands for 1980s celebrations.
- Masquerade balls pair perfectly with top hats, fascinators, and elegant updos, adding a touch of sophistication to the evening.
- Seasonal events also benefit from themed headwear – Santa hats and elf caps for Christmas parties, or witch hats and spooky wigs for Halloween celebrations.
These accessories don’t just look great – they often spark laughter and lively interactions among guests.
Adding Fun and Breaking the Ice
Themed hats and wigs are natural icebreakers. There’s something inherently fun about donning a silly hat or an outrageous wig that makes people drop their guard and start chatting. Guests often swap accessories, create group shots with matching themes, or challenge each other to strike poses that fit their new characters. This shared playfulness builds connections and results in candid, joyful photos.
Trying on different hats and wigs is also an interactive activity that keeps guests entertained throughout the event. Unlike props that might be used once and set aside, headwear invites repeated visits to the photo booth as people experiment with new looks and combinations.
Perfect for Any Event
Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or birthday party, themed hats and wigs are a hit across the board.
- Weddings benefit from elegant options like vintage veils, flower crowns, or classic hats that add whimsy while complementing the romantic atmosphere. Bridal parties especially enjoy playing with styles that range from classy to cheeky.
- Corporate events can include professional yet fun choices like branded caps, sleek fedoras, or subtle headpieces that encourage participation without feeling over the top. These props are great for breaking the ice at networking events or team-building activities.
- Birthday parties – whether for kids or adults – embrace the full spectrum of options. Children adore superhero masks, princess tiaras, and colourful wigs, while adults might enjoy vintage cocktail hats or accessories that reflect the guest of honour’s personality.
The key to success lies in offering a variety of clean, comfortable, and easy-to-wear options. High-quality accessories that look great under different lighting ensure every guest feels confident in their transformed look, making the photo booth experience unforgettable.
4. Emoji Masks and Face Props
Emoji masks and face props take the fun of themed attire to the next level, bringing the digital world into real-life celebrations. These props, inspired by the symbols we use every day in texts and social media, are instantly recognisable and incredibly easy to use. They naturally encourage laughter, spontaneous reactions, and memorable photos. Guests immediately connect with their meaning, making the photo booth experience both simple and exciting. Plus, they’re great conversation starters, setting a light-hearted tone for the entire event.
Engagement and Fun Factor for Guests
Emoji masks and face props create an instant bond between guests and the photo booth. Their familiarity sparks natural reactions, which look fantastic in photos. People are drawn to their playful nature, often experimenting with different expressions to tell mini photo stories.
Groups love using emoji props for themed shots – whether it’s matching love-struck faces or a mix of goofy and excited expressions. They’re especially popular with kids and teens, who see these props as an extension of their digital language. Younger guests often spend extra time at the booth, trying out new combinations and creating their own photo narratives.
What’s more, emoji props are great icebreakers. A silly emoji face or a coordinated group shot can turn strangers into friends, making the event feel more connected and fun.
Customisability for Themed Events
One of the best things about emoji masks and face props is how easily they fit into different party themes. Choosing the right emoji styles ensures they match the mood and aesthetic of the event perfectly.
For modern or tech-inspired parties, a full range of emojis – like the fire emoji or popular hand gestures – adds a contemporary vibe. These props pair well with other digital-themed decorations, creating a unified look.
At casual birthday parties or social gatherings, fun and cheeky emojis like laughing faces, party hats, and sunglasses bring out the festive spirit. They’re ideal for encouraging playful interactions among guests.
Even corporate events can benefit from emoji props. Think thumbs-up for success, lightbulbs for creativity, or handshake emojis for teamwork. These choices keep things professional while maintaining a sense of fun.
Emoji props can also be customised in size, from small handheld versions to larger masks that cover the face. This flexibility allows for creative photo compositions, whether it’s a solo shot or a group photo filled with oversized emoji expressions.
Suitability for Various Event Types
Emoji masks and face props are incredibly versatile, working just as well at formal events as they do at casual get-togethers.
At weddings, heart-eyes emojis, kissing faces, and love-struck expressions add a playful touch to the romance of the day. Birthday parties – for both kids and adults – embrace these props with enthusiasm, with children loving bright, happy emojis and adults opting for a mix of fun and cheeky expressions. Even corporate events find these props useful for drawing out typically reserved attendees. The familiar symbols are less intimidating than elaborate costumes but still deliver engaging photo moments.
Another major plus? Emoji props are durable and easy to maintain. Unlike fragile accessories that might not last through a long event, these props hold up to enthusiastic use, ensuring the fun lasts all night.
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5. Inflatable Props
Inflatable props add a touch of whimsy and surprise to any photo booth setup. They’re eye-catching, fun to interact with, and encourage creative poses. Whether it’s a giant flamingo, an inflatable guitar, or a colourful beach ball, these props turn simple snapshots into unforgettable memories. Plus, their playful nature makes them perfect for breaking the ice and drawing even the shyest guests into the action. Let’s dive into how inflatable props bring energy and engagement to any event.
Engagement and Fun Factor for Guests
There’s something about inflatable props that instantly brings out the fun. Picking up an inflatable microphone or lounging on a giant swan sparks laughter and spontaneity. Kids treat them like toys, while adults can’t resist the playful energy they bring to photos. Group shots become more dynamic too – imagine a group of friends pretending to surf on inflatable boards or a bridal party posing with oversized inflatable letters that spell out the couple’s initials. These props don’t just make for great photos – they create moments that people will talk about long after the event.
Perfect for Themed Events
Inflatable props are a dream for themed parties because they’re so versatile. Planning a beach or summer-themed event? Inflatable palm trees, surfboards, and flamingos instantly set the mood. For weddings, personalised inflatable letters or hearts can add a romantic touch. Many props can even be customised with names, dates, or messages, making them extra special. No matter the theme, inflatable props bring an extra layer of fun and personality to the celebration.
Great for Any Occasion
The beauty of inflatable props is that they suit just about any event. At children’s birthday parties, they’re often the star attraction – kids love playing with them as much as posing for photos. Adult parties and casual gatherings also thrive on the Instagram-worthy moments these props create, whether indoors or outdoors. Even at corporate events, inflatable props break the ice and encourage mingling, helping to create a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. For more formal occasions like engagement parties or anniversaries, carefully chosen inflatables can add a playful yet elegant touch to the celebration.
6. Custom Hashtag and Speech Bubble Signs
Custom hashtag and speech bubble signs bring a personal flair to events while encouraging social media buzz. These props turn simple photos into shareable memories, amplifying your event’s visibility beyond the venue. From playful speech bubbles to branded hashtags, these signs help weave a visual story that guests are eager to post online.
Tailored for Themed Events
The beauty of custom signs lies in their flexibility. For weddings, couples might opt for hashtags like "#SmithsGetHitched" or speech bubbles with messages like "Finally!" or "Best Day Ever!" Birthday parties can include age-specific phrases such as "Fabulous at Forty" or quirky lines that match the party’s theme. Corporate events often feature company slogans or event-specific phrases, striking a balance between professionalism and fun.
These signs can be designed to match any colour palette or style. Elegant calligraphy fits formal weddings, while bold, vibrant fonts are perfect for children’s parties. Speech bubbles can include inside jokes, memorable quotes, or even prompts like "Share your favourite memory", encouraging guests to interact and get creative.
Boosting Guest Engagement and Fun
Beyond personalisation, these props add energy to guest interactions. Custom hashtag signs encourage attendees to use them in their social media posts, creating a collaborative digital memory album. Speech bubble props inspire playful poses and expressions, leading to more lively and authentic photos.
Interactive elements like these make group shots more engaging. Guests love holding different speech bubbles to craft mini-stories or conversations in their photos. The result? Dynamic and entertaining visuals that capture the spirit of the occasion.
Perfect for Any Event
Custom signs work well for all types of events, regardless of their vibe or level of formality. Weddings benefit from romantic hashtags and elegant speech bubbles that encourage guests to document the day while keeping things classy. Birthday parties can highlight milestones, hobbies, or the unique personality of the guest of honour, making every photo feel special.
For corporate events, these props strike the right balance between fun and professionalism. Branded hashtags make it easy to track event engagement on social platforms, while speech bubbles with industry humour or motivational phrases lighten the mood. The trick is finding the right tone – playful enough to encourage participation but still fitting for the occasion.
7. Life-Size Cutouts and 3D Props
Life-size cutouts and 3D props can take your event’s theme to the next level, turning ordinary spaces into captivating visual experiences. These larger-than-life pieces grab attention instantly and set the tone for unforgettable photo opportunities. Beyond their visual appeal, they act as conversation starters, encouraging guests to engage with the event in a fun and interactive way. From celebrity figures to themed characters, these props add depth and create a dramatic flair that’s hard to miss. Plus, they can be customised to fit just about any event theme, making them a versatile addition to your décor.
Customisation for Every Occasion
The beauty of life-size cutouts lies in their adaptability – they can be tailored to suit any theme or occasion. Whether it’s a cutout of the guest of honour, a beloved character, or a branded mascot, these props can perfectly align with your event’s aesthetic. Meanwhile, 3D props take things a step further by adding texture and dimension. Think oversized champagne bottles, giant flowers, or intricate architectural elements that guests can pose with or around.
For weddings, you might opt for romantic silhouettes or elegant 3D floral displays that match the décor. The key is to ensure these props enhance the setting without overpowering it.
For milestone birthdays, custom cutouts of the celebrant at various ages can create a nostalgic vibe, while 3D numbers reflecting their age make for eye-catching backdrops. You can even incorporate themes like movie characters, sports icons, or hobbies to reflect the guest of honour’s personality.
Corporate events can benefit from branded props such as 3D logos, mascots, or industry-related designs. These elements can subtly incorporate company colours or messaging while keeping the atmosphere light and engaging.
Boosting Guest Interaction and Fun
Props like these naturally draw people in, encouraging them to interact and get creative with their photos. Life-size cutouts invite guests to pose alongside familiar faces or characters, sparking laughter and playful moments. Their size and presence make them perfect for group shots, offering something that smaller props just can’t replicate.
Unlike handheld props that might only be used once, these statement pieces offer endless posing possibilities. Guests are likely to return to the photo booth multiple times, experimenting with different angles and group configurations. This keeps the energy high and ensures everyone leaves with plenty of memorable photos.
Kids, in particular, are drawn to life-size characters and 3D props, making them a must-have for family-friendly events. Adults, too, often find themselves joining in the fun, which helps break the ice and encourages even the shyest guests to participate.
Perfect for Any Event
The versatility of these props makes them suitable for a wide range of events.
For weddings, they can add a touch of elegance without distracting from the romantic atmosphere. Sophisticated 3D props like oversized floral arrangements, vintage furniture, or even architectural elements make for stunning backdrops, especially in outdoor settings.
Birthdays offer the chance to get bold and playful. From superhero cutouts for kids to chic 3D installations for adults, the possibilities are endless. Just make sure the props match the venue size and the vibe of the celebration.
Corporate events benefit from a balance of professionalism and fun. Branded 3D props, such as oversized product replicas or industry-themed designs, can reinforce the company’s identity while still being approachable and engaging. These props not only enhance the décor but also create moments that guests will talk about long after the event.
Conclusion
Photo booth props have a knack for transforming simple moments into unforgettable memories. The seven categories we’ve discussed – from oversized sunglasses to life-size cutouts – each add their own flair and fun to themed events. These props not only enhance the overall vibe but also make the experience more enjoyable for your guests. Whether it’s an intimate wedding, a milestone birthday, or a corporate gathering, the right mix of props can take your event to the next level.
Props do more than just look good – they spark conversations, encourage guest interaction, and bring your theme to life with personalised touches. Customised props, in particular, can tie your event’s theme together seamlessly, both at the venue and on social media.
For those hosting events in Melbourne, One Click Events provides a complete photo booth experience. Their packages include thoughtfully selected props, premium equipment, and professional setup. With options ranging from open-air booths to glamorous luxury setups, they cater to a variety of venues and themes. Plus, their additional services – like flower walls, light-up letters, and custom printing – make it easy to create a cohesive, Instagram-worthy event that your guests will rave about long after the party ends.
When you invest in high-quality props, you’re investing in more than just decorations. You’re creating an experience that your guests will cherish, complete with personalised photos that serve as lasting keepsakes. It’s a simple way to ensure your event leaves a lasting impression – and a buzz that lives on well beyond the day itself.
FAQs
How do I choose photo booth props that match my event theme?
To make your photo booth props match your event theme, think about using colours, patterns, and symbols that capture the mood you’re going for. For instance, props shaped like palm trees or sunglasses are a fun choice for a tropical theme, while sleek metallic accents add a touch of sophistication to a glamorous wedding.
Adding a personal touch with customised props – like ones featuring your logo, names, or the event date – can elevate the experience even more. Combine these props with a well-coordinated backdrop or matching decorations to create a photo booth setup that’s both stylish and unforgettable.
How can I use photo booth props to make guests feel more engaged and interactive at an event?
To get guests excited about using photo booth props, position the booth in a spot that’s easy to find – somewhere visible and bustling with activity. Make sure to stock it with a mix of fun, themed props that suit your event, whether it’s a wedding, a birthday bash, or a corporate gathering. Think oversized glasses, quirky hats, or even personalised signs to bring out everyone’s playful side.
You can take it a step further by including interactive features like themed backdrops, fun challenges, or options for instant social media sharing. Clear instructions and small rewards, like a prize for the most creative photo, can also nudge people to join in. The goal is to create a welcoming vibe where everyone feels at ease and ready to have a laugh!
What should I consider when choosing photo booth props for different events like weddings or corporate functions?
When choosing photo booth props, it’s key to align them with the event’s vibe and purpose. For weddings, go for romantic, elegant, or playful props – think floral crowns, vintage accessories, or signs with heartfelt messages that fit the joyous mood. For corporate events, stick to professional or branded props, like custom signage, sleek hats, or items featuring the company logo, to keep things polished and on-brand.
The size of the event also plays a role. For larger gatherings, sturdy and versatile props work best since they can handle more use and accommodate a crowd. For smaller, more personal events, you can focus on detailed, customised props that add a personal touch. Matching the props to the theme and audience ensures a fun, memorable experience for everyone.