I had a photo booth at my sister’s budget-friendly birthday party and it was so popular that I’m sharing how I pulled it off. There’s just something about people wanting to act silly in front of the camera at parties that makes this a fun and inexpensive activity! Plus, it’s such a nice way to capture and share the memories.

The concept is not just for birthday parties, you can have a photo booth at any social gathering or even large-scale events like weddings. The most important part is knowing the theme of the event. From there, all you have to do is let your creative juices flow.

1. Secure Your Backdrop

Choosing something that reflects the style of your party is the main objective. I hung silver ribbon I already had on the wall to keep it simple. There are so many ideas if you want to go all out that don’t have to cost you a penny. You can set up the backdrop by using solid bed sheets, printed curtains, or even just making a garland. Make sure to iron sheets and curtains so the wrinkles aren’t distracting. If you’re artsy, you can also buy butcher paper and draw a design that goes with your theme. Hanging your backdrop is not as difficult as it sounds. I used duct tape because it’s the strongest tape I had. There are all kinds of fancy stands out there, but duct tape is the most inexpensive option.

2. Engage Your Subject

Providing props for your guests to loosen up is a must. Gather items you already have around your home to save money. Hats, glasses, or even frames work well. If you’re guests need more coaching, shout out ideas. Tell them to blow kiss to the camera, make silly faces, or anything that will get you the money shot. Having a fan to get the tousled supermodel hair is also fun — girls, especially like the idea!

3. Frame Your Subject

You don’t need a fancy camera to take a successful photo. I used my point-and-shoot and the photos turned out great. The secret is framing your subject so your not cutting of heads. Photos also look best when they’re close ups. I was too busy playing hostess to take most of our photos so I turned on the camera timer and set it on a stand. If you don’t have one, appoint a photographer. Mac user? Your computer or laptop has a photo booth app. All you have to do is turn on your computer when friends arrive. This will save you one step.

4. Download, Retouch, and Email

After the party, I sat down to download the photos on my laptop. I did some enhancing — hey, no one has to know I was sporting a major zit (of all days!). Not a genius with computers? No problem. This is just extra. Once on your computer you can email them.

I decided to add a watermark on iPhoto to the photos that read “Wendy’s 15 Birthday Fiesta.” The little details made it more personal and it made for a cheap party favor! Once I was done, my sister emailed the photos and thanked each guest for showing up (it was pouring!) and her gifts.

Have any more inexpensive party favor ideas? Share them with us along with fun and frugal party games or activities.