The Beauty of Imperfection
Let me tell you a little story about a sideshow girl with a dream. Not a big dream, just a simple idea that has touched the hearts of many. Nearly 10 years ago, I built a photobooth as part of Mab’s Mobile Midway. It was a janky affair, built with a tablet, a tripod, a photo backdrop, lots of drapery, and some LED string lights, all held together with clamps and bungee cords. There have been technology improvements over the years, better lighting, better camera, better booth setup, etc, but one thing never changed; I insisted on a set up that uses timed sequential shots, like the photo booths of old.
Last weekend, I brought my Peek-a-torium photobooth to the Fairy Scary Ball, in Baltimore, MD. We set up a lovely backdrop, arranged the props, and invited fae of all ages to come in! It was an incredible experience, full of laughter, joy, and so many memories! We had SO many people cycle through, and some folks came back multiple times!
As I was working the booth, I kept thinking to myself “Why is this so popular?” After all, everyone has a camera in their pocket these days. What makes this so special?
That’s when I realized, we’re not just taking pictures—we’re capturing moments. Our photobooth isn’t just a tool; it’s an experience. It gives us more than images; it encapsulates our feelings, characters, and stories.
The magic of the booth lies in its candidness. It is straightforward, truthful, and delightfully imperfect. We LOVE your wonky smile! The unexpected burst of laughter, the shared glance, the sudden but inevitable betrayal when you turn on your partner and lick their face—it’s these fleeting, unposed moments that read best when you find that photo many years from now.
Back in the day, people were more intentional with their photos. Film was precious and took forever to develop. You never knew for sure how the picture would come out, but every shot had to count. While we’re freer now to click endlessly, photobooths still echo that old-fashioned charm of making every frame matter.
And unlike posed portraits that focus on “how lovely” someone looks—a worthwhile pursuit in its own right—my photobooth offers something more dynamic; it naturally creates a narrative. The story unfolds in just a few seconds: a goofy face, a whispered joke, a playful gesture, and then SUDDENLY A GOAT.
Photobooths remind us that photography isn’t just about the perfect picture; it’s about connection, joy, and capturing the truth of a moment.
Further musings
What is the cut off of ages where folks remember public space photobooths? What was the first generation that never experienced physical film and photo prints? How much is generational nostalgia and how much is novelty?
I remember the metal booths with the screw seat and changing curtain backdrops. Often printing photo strips of black and white blurs. You don’t have to seek out an old subway station or a bygone boardwalk to find that special magic – Mab’s Mobile Midway brings it right to you.
In the years since I built my photobooth, I’ve had the chance to be a guest at fancy corporate events and weddings with slick, professional booths. While they were technically impressive, something about them felt sterile. Forced merriment. Lackluster.
That’s not my style.
I’m an entertainer, first and foremost. My photobooth isn’t just about snapping pictures—it’s about creating an unforgettable experience for everyone. Before the camera even clicks, I make it my mission to connect. I chat with guests, help them loosen up, and get them laughing. I find out who they are and what will help them shine.
Sure, you could sit still and take four identical photos. (It happens sometimes!) Or… you could let loose and see where the journey takes you!
When people say, “I’m not very photogenic,” I tell them:
“You are stunning in every way. You’ve got it going on, and trust me—you’re perfect just as you are.”
When they say, “I have no idea what to do,” I say:
“You can do anything! You can stand still and lean closer to the camera after each shot. Make a different face in every frame. Put on a silly hat, spin around, flap your arms—heck, I’ll even jump in the shot with you! Oh, look—a goat!” (Goats are optional but highly recommended.)
And when someone says, “My hand is blurry in this one,” I respond:
“That’s the magic! Look at that fan motion—it’s a rainbow of movement! The imperfections are what make this photo perfect.”
Perfection is the enemy of joy. Trying too hard to get the “perfect” shot can rob us of the really fantastic moments. The truth is, the best photos are the ones that capture authenticity—quirks, energy, and everything in between.
That’s why my photobooth isn’t just a machine; it’s a celebration of you.