A photo booth guest book swaps the usual page of signatures for photos with messages next to them. It's a lovely keepsake, and far more fun to look back on than a list of names in nice handwriting.
There's more than one way to do it, though. Here are the ideas we like, from the classic album to options that don't need a drop of glue.
The classic photo booth guest book album
The booth prints two copies of each strip. Guests take one home and stick the other into an album, then write a message beside it. Simple, and it works for weddings, anniversaries and big birthdays alike.
Some suppliers offer the album as an extra, and an attendant may help guests with it. If you're doing it yourself, go for an album with thick, plain pages, as patterned or thin paper doesn't take pen well. We'll confirm exactly what's included with your quote.
Make it easy for guests
The book only gets filled in if it's easy. Give it its own small table right by the booth exit, not wedged in beside the prop box.
It also helps to start the book off yourselves. A couple of strips already stuck in with a message from the two of you shows people what to do far better than any sign.
- Fine-tip pens in black and a couple of colours
- Glue dots or photo corners rather than a glue stick
- A small sign with simple instructions
- A lamp or some lights, so people can see what they're writing late on
- Spare pens, because they always go walkabout
Message cards on a hanging display
If you'd rather keep an album neat, give guests a small card to write on, then peg the card and photo together on a string line or a wire grid. It doubles as decor on the night, and everyone can read what others have written.
At the end, the cards go into a keepsake box. You can always put them into an album later, on a free weekend with a cup of tea.
A wishing tree or frame wall
For a rustic or garden theme, hang photos from a small tree or a few branches in a pot, tied on with ribbon. For something smarter, a big empty frame strung with rows of twine, or a fabric pinboard, works well. Both turn the guest book into a feature.
These suit christenings and anniversaries too, where you might want to keep the display up at home afterwards.
Pegs and mini bulldog clips are easier than pins for guests holding a drink in one hand. Leave plenty of empty space at the start, as the display fills up faster than you'd expect once the dancing gets going.
Audio guest books
An audio guest book is an old-style telephone that records voice messages. Guests pick up the receiver, hear your greeting and leave a message after the beep. Hearing grandparents and friends in their own voices years later is something else.
It pairs nicely with a booth, one for faces and one for voices. Have a look at our audio guest book hire page if you like the sound of it.
Digital guest book options
Many booths can send photos straight to phones and put every shot into an online gallery after the event. Some let guests type a message or draw on the screen before their photo saves.
It's handy if you don't fancy the clutter of glue and pens, or if it's a work do where a physical album doesn't make much sense. And you could still order a printed photo book from the gallery afterwards.
Getting the album finished
However careful you are, a few strips end up loose at the bottom of a bag. Bring a large envelope for strays and set aside an evening the week after to tidy the book up while you still remember who's who.
If there are gaps, ask close family to add a message later. Nobody will mind being asked.
Pick the booth with the book in mind
If a guest book is a big part of your plan, say so when you ask. Double prints, an attendant who helps with the album and room for a small table all matter. Our wedding photo booth hire page covers wedding setups, or just get a quote and tell us what you'd like.
