History of the Photo Booth

The patent for the first automated photography machine was filed in 1889 by Mathew Stiffens; however, it was not reliable enough to be left unattended and not much came of it.

What we know as the modern day photo booth with an entrance curtain and backdrop was invented in 1925 by Siberian immigrant Anatol Josepho.

The popularity of photo booths skyrocketed during World War II as soldiers and loved ones took numerous photographs to exchange with each other.

In the 1950s, photo booths were found most often at the corner drugstore. Users entered the photo booth, dropped a coin in a slot, and four consecutive photos were automatically taken of the subject sitting on a stool. The photo booth then dispensed the prints in a strip.

Early photo booths used chemicals to develop the photos, not unlike the way all photographic images were created before digital cameras. Early photo booths were hard-bodied and often made of wood. They were enormously heavy (around 700 lbs.) and their operation was slow. But they provided an enormous amount of entertainment value for very little cost.

The advent of instant photography by Polaroid in the 1960's and 1970's greatly detracted from the popularity of photo booths and they began to fade from public consciousness.

Fast forward to the 21st century. With the enormous advancements in digital photography and printing, photo booths are making a huge comeback. Unlike older traditional photo booths, new digital photo booths are lightweight and easily transportable making them affordable and readily available for private events.

It is hard to explain the psychology behind the mass appeal of photo booths or how they can bring out the wild and wacky side of almost anyone. One has to witness firsthand the joy and laughter that photo booths bring to truly appreciate it.

These days you see photobooths everywhere! It's a staple of any great party and heck... even Apple has it as a function on their computers and communication devices!

At Butter Photobooth we're not here to make history, but we do focus on the fun of the photobooth, great service, and high quality photos! We are Vancouver's choice for weddings and corporate events! Consider our business a salute to Mr. Stiffens for inventing the photo booth!