The Ultimate Guide to Photo Booth Rentals in Chicago, IL

Chicago knows how to party – from weddings and corporate galas to birthday bashes and neighborhood festivals, Windy City celebrations are legendary. But what takes any event from good to unforgettable? A photo booth in Chicago, IL!

As a longtime event planner in the city, I’ve seen firsthand how a great photo booth can transform the vibe of a party. Guests love them, they create instant memories, and they keep the energy high all night. But not all photo booths are created equal.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about renting a photo booth in Chicago – the different types available, what to look for in a rental company, and insider tips to make sure your guests have a blast.

Why Rent a Photo Booth in Chicago?

Let’s be real – everyone loves a good photo booth. But beyond just being fun, here’s why they’re a must-have for Chicago events:

✅ Instant Entertainment – No awkward lulls in your party when guests can jump in for silly pics.

✅ Custom Branding – Perfect for corporate events, weddings, and marketing activations.

✅ Social Media Gold – Guests share their pics online, extending your event’s reach.

✅ Keepsake Memories – Printed strips or digital copies make great party favors.

Types of Photo Booths Available in Chicago

Not all photo booths are the same. Depending on your event vibe, you’ll want to choose the right style:

1. Classic Enclosed Photo Booth

• The OG of photo booths – private, curtained space for 2-4 people

• Best for: Weddings, proms, corporate events

• Why Chicago loves it: Great for winter events when people want a cozy spot

2. Open-Air Mirror Booth

• A sleek, modern touchscreen mirror that takes photos

• Best for: Upscale galas, product launches, fashion events

• Chicago bonus: Looks amazing in downtown loft venues

3. GIF & Boomerang Booth

• Captures short, looping videos instead of still photos

• Best for: Young crowds, social media-heavy events

• Perfect for: Music festivals like Lollapalooza after-parties

4. 360° Video Booth

• Records slow-motion spinning videos (super trendy right now!)

• Best for: Bar/bat mitzvahs, quinceañeras, high-energy parties

• Chicago hot spot: Great at West Loop warehouse parties

What to Look for in a Chicago Photo Booth Rental

Not all rental companies deliver the same experience. Here’s what separates the best from the rest:

✔ High-Quality Prints – No blurry, faded strips! Look for dye-sublimation printers.

✔ Customizable Templates – Match your wedding colors or company branding.

✔ Instant Digital Sharing – Texts/emails pics to guests right away.

✔ Attendant Included – Someone to keep it running smoothly all night.

✔ Chicago-Based – Avoid no-shows due to traffic or weather delays.

Chicago Photo Booth Rental Company

For Budget-Friendly Fun

• Fiesta Party Rentals – Great value, always reliable

5 Unique Ways Chicagoans Use Photo Booths

1. Winter Wedding Send-Offs – Guests take pics with "Braving Chicago Winter" props

2. Cubs/Sox Game Watch Parties – Team-themed backdrops & props

3. Corporate Holiday Parties – Custom hashtags for company social media

4. Engagement Proposals – Surprise "Will You Marry Me?" photo strip

5. Sweet 16 Parties – Glitter backdrops in the teen’s favorite colors

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a wedding at The Drake, a product launch in Fulton Market, or just a killer birthday bash in Wrigleyville, a photo booth will take your event to the next level. The key is choosing the right style and a reliable Chicago-based company that understands our unique event scene.

Ready to bring the fun? Local favorites like Fiesta Party Rentals make it easy to add this crowd-pleasing element to any Chicago celebration. Just don’t be surprised when your photo booth becomes the most popular spot at the party!

Want help picking the perfect booth for your event? Most Chicago rental companies offer free consultations – just ask about their Chicago-specific experience. After all, a photo booth that works in Miami might not have the right vibe for a winter wedding at the Chicago Athletic Association!