10 Ways to Use a Photo Booth at Your Fundraising Event
Are you planning a golf tournament, a 5k, or a gala charity event? If so, there’s no doubt that you want to raise as much funds as possible; after all, raising funds is the entire point of hosting a charity event! Just because you’re hosting a fundraising event, however, that doesn’t automatically mean that you’re going to raise funds. People need to be inspired to give, and if it seems like your event is subpar and not much thought has been put into it, chances are it isn’t going to be as successful as you’re hoping. Sure, you might get some attendees to chip in a few bucks, but you likely aren’t going to reach your goal – and you certainly aren’t going to exceed it.
How can you drum-up interest in your charity event? By including elements that will capture the attention of the audience, engage participation, and that will allow for an interactive experience. While there are several ways that you can achieve this goal, a photo booth is one of the most effective tools that you can use. Why? Well, because photo booths are really all the rage these days. No longer are they those dark, cubby, dungeon-like booths that are tucked in the dark corner of a movie theater or an arcade; today’s photo booths have been given a complete upgrade. There are several different options that are available, such as 360 selfie photo booths, mirror photo booths, and even photo booths that allow for instant social media sharing. Modern photo booths are more comfortable, more interactive, and much more appealing.
Photo booths are a great tool for fundraising events because participants can share their images on their social channels, which will help to spread the word about your event and encourage those who are nearby to stop by, join in on the fun, and donate to the cause. That said, if you’re planning on including a photo booth in your fundraising event, here are some tips that will help to ensure success.
Add a custom background. A background is a must for a photo booth, and if you really want to make your photo booth stand out and attract attention for your fundraiser, you should definitely include a custom background. You can have a background made up that features the logo of your organization, hashtags that relate to the event, a color scheme that ties into your organization or cause, etc. You don’t have to make it look like the backdrop at a Hollywood event (you know the type, where you see nothing but the sponsor’s names), well, unless you want to. Instead, you can offer a variety of different attention-grabbing images that tie into your theme, such as a beach scene or a winter setting, or you could include something that’s fun and flash, such as a glittery backdrop or even a light tunnel.
Use custom photo strips. One of the best things about photo booths is that the pictures make for great favors. Plus, you can include your logo right on the front of the photos so that attendees will remember the event and share the organization and/or cause. You can arrange to have images printed with the logo of your company set in one of the corners, along the bottom or top of the images, or as a frame.
Wrap your booth. If you really want to make your photo booth stand out, wrap it! You can arrange to have a custom wrap made that features the logo of your organization or your event, and have it placed onto the booth. This will both attract attention and spread the word about your event.
Include video messaging. Modern photo booths are outfitted with modern technology. Video messaging is one option. This tech collects video clips of booth attendees, who can share all types of inspirational or promotional messages; you might want to consider thinking up a message that you could encourage booth attendees to say, in case they’re stumped. You can then use the video messages that you college as marketing material to spread the word about your event.
Don’t forget the props. You’re definitely going to want to include props in your photo booth, too. Props really help to make the photo booth experience, as they enhance the images, add another dimension, and can even help to break the ice and encourage guests to let loose. There are so many different types of props that you can include, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Of course, include items that feature your logo or a hashtag related to your event.
Offer chalkboards/whiteboards. Include chalkboards or whiteboards with your photo booth. Participants can write down messages and prop them up in their photos. This is another great way to get the word out about your event.
Set up lighting. Poor lighting makes for poor photos. While you can choose a location for your booth that offers great lighting, you can’t guarantee the lighting will stay that way. Therefore, setting up lighting is highly recommended; lamps that put out warm, natural light is highly recommended.
Offer branded gear. To encourage attendees of your charity event to participate in the photo booth, hand out branded gear. T-shirts, tote bags, hats, and lanyards are just a few different options. The gear can serve double duty, as it can be a prop and a favor.
Market your booth. When you’re marketing your charity event, don’t forget to market your photo booth. People love taking photos, so if they know that a photo booth will be available, that just might encourage some people to attend!
Collect information. Don’t forget to gather information of the attendees of your charity event who participate in the photo booth, including their names and contact information. You can use this information to connect after the event, and if the event is being published in the media, you can use the information you collected to have it featured in new clips or newspaper stories (with their permission, of course).
