People love it because they can see themselves properly before the shot. No squinting at a tiny screen. And because there are no walls, a whole group can pile in front of it.
How a magic mirror photo booth works
Behind the glass there's usually a screen and a hidden camera. Guests tap the mirror to start, strike a pose when the countdown runs out, and the photo pops up on the mirror a moment later.
Many mirrors then let you sign or doodle on the photo with your finger before it prints. Some add emoji stickers or little messages too. It sounds like a gimmick. In practice, it's the bit people queue for.
Features vary from one mirror to the next, so we'll tell you exactly what yours does when we send the quote.
Why it suits smart venues
An enclosed booth is, let's be honest, a box. Some hotels and country houses aren't keen on a box in the corner of the ballroom. A mirror is different. It usually sits in a gold, silver or white frame and looks like it belongs in the room, which is why it's a popular pick for black tie dinners, weddings and awards nights.
Pair it with a sequin wall or a flower wall and it becomes a proper feature. Backdrop choices depend on the partner, so mention it if you've got something in mind.
Space, power and setup
Plan for roughly 3 metres wide by 3 metres deep once there's a backdrop and room for people to stand. The mirror itself is tall, often getting on for 2 metres, so a low ceiling or a tight alcove might not work.
It needs one standard socket nearby. Setup is usually about an hour, a bit longer with a big backdrop, and the team will want to be finished before guests arrive. A long walk from the van, or stairs with no lift, is worth mentioning when you enquire.
Prints, props and sharing
Most mirrors print instantly, and many can share photos digitally as well, through a QR code or a link sent to the guest's phone. You'll normally get the whole gallery after the event too.
Props are usually included. If you're going for an elegant look, ask for a few hats, glasses and signs rather than inflatable guitars. Though to be fair, the inflatable guitars always get used.
Getting the most out of it on the night
Put the mirror somewhere people walk past, not hidden behind a pillar. Near the bar or on the way to the dance floor is ideal. Guests spot others having a go and drift over.
Open it once dinner's done. If there are speeches, ask the host or DJ to give the mirror a quick mention, because plenty of guests won't realise it's for them until someone says so. If it's for a wedding, our wedding photo booth page has more on guest books and templates.
Is magic mirror hire right for you
It's a great all rounder for bigger guest lists, and it suits mixed ages because the voice prompts walk people through everything. Grandparents manage it fine. So do slightly tipsy best men.
Magic mirror hire usually costs more than a standard booth, as the kit is bigger and pricier to run. If budget's tight, an open air photo booth gives a similar group feel for less. You can compare typical costs on our price guide, then ask for a quote.
