When I was photographing weddings, almost every bride wanted a “Photo Booth”. We would set up a corner of the room during the dancing with a special light and have the DJ ask the guests to come over for photo booth style pictures. I always felt, at that point, the work was done and it was time to let loose and be a little silly. It was also a perfect opportunity for the bride to be sure to get pictures of everyone at the wedding. I came to really value these pictures for that reason. As hard as I worked to photograph the families and guests, if I was not sure I had everyone photographed by this point, and I could use the stage to catch some one I may have missed. People always grabbed their friends and grouped together naturally. Also, people would play with the camera – especially if the bride arranged for some props – and personalities would come out… or take over. It was always fun. A very different animal than the formal family portraits but, in my opinion, just as important.
So when my folks decided to have a party for their 50th Anniversary, I knew my contribution had to be a photo booth. They invited their oldest and newest friends together, people that were an important part of their lives and, for the most part, people that they did not have any pictures of. Since it was a smaller party, I had the idea to grab the guests as they walked into the room – so there was no escaping my camera. I got them the moment they entered, saw my folks and were animated and happy to be present. We had some props to throw around. It was quick and painless. The folks enjoyed it and have thanked me for the pictures ever since.
Usually, I used one of my speedlights with a modifier for the set-up. Here, I was playing with my new toy – a flash ring. It’s a circle attached around my lense encasing the speedlight inside. I especially like the halo effect it has around my subjects. It’s a little bit rock-n-roll.