What is a virtual photo booth and how does it work
A plain-English definition of a virtual photo booth with how it works for guests and hosts and when it is worth using.
Short answer: a virtual photo booth is a photo booth that runs on guests' own phones. Guests scan a QR code, take a photo and get it back in a frame designed for the event. The host collects every photo in one place.
The phrase covers a few different products so it helps to pin down what it means and what it does not.
Definition
A virtual photo booth is software that recreates the photo booth experience without a physical booth. Instead of a camera rig in the corner of the room it uses the camera that every guest already carries. The result looks like a booth photo because each picture is placed inside a branded frame with the event's name and colours.
How it works for guests
- They scan a QR code on a sign or open a link from the invitation.
- The guest page opens in their browser and asks to use the camera.
- They take a photo or choose one from their camera roll.
- The photo comes back inside the event's frame ready to save or share.
There is no app to download and no account to create.
How it works for hosts
- Design the frame in an editor by choosing a template or starting from blank.
- Choose a plan that covers your number of guests.
- Print the QR sign or share the link.
- Watch photos arrive on your event page and download them all after the event.
What a virtual photo booth is not
- It is not a video call add-on. Some tools use the same name for taking photos during an online meeting. A virtual photo booth in this sense is for in-person events.
- It is not a shared album. An album collects photos people already took. A virtual booth gives them a reason to take one and frames it for the event.
- It is not a hired booth with a screen. Those still need delivery, a socket and someone to run them.
Key terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Guest page | The web page guests open to take a photo |
| QR sign | A printed sign whose code opens the guest page |
| Frame or card | The design each photo is placed inside |
| Photo limit | The number of photos a plan includes |
Frequently asked questions
Is a virtual photo booth the same as a selfie booth?
They overlap. A selfie booth usually means a physical stand with a screen. A virtual photo booth uses guests' own phones so there is no stand at all.
Does a virtual photo booth work on iPhone and Android?
Yes. It runs in the phone's browser so it works on any recent iPhone or Android phone.
What does a virtual photo booth cost?
Pec is free for up to 5 guests and paid plans start at $9.99 per event with no subscription. Every plan is listed in the pricing section.