360 Camera Booth vs Traditional Photo Booth: Which One Should You Rent?
Planning an event in Vancouver means paying attention to every detail the venue, the food, the entertainment, and of course, how guests will capture memories. Photo booths have become a must-have at weddings, corporate functions, and parties of all kinds. They bring fun, interaction, and unforgettable keepsakes.
But in 2026, the question many event planners ask is: Should you rent a 360 camera booth or a traditional photo booth?
Both options deliver great results, but they do so in very different ways. Let’s break down the differences so you can choose the perfect fit for your next event.
What Is a Traditional Photo Booth?
A traditional photo booth is the classic favorite, the one you’ve probably used at weddings or malls. Guests step inside (or in front of a backdrop), pose, and get instant photo prints or digital copies.
Over time, traditional photo booths have evolved. Modern setups can include props, filters, green screen backgrounds, and even social media sharing features. Still, they focus primarily on static photos, the timeless “snap and smile” experience that never gets old.
Key features of traditional booths:
- Instant printed photo strips or digital galleries
- Simple, quick, and user-friendly interface
- Classic photo booth look and feel
- Perfect for all ages and event types
For Vancouver events that value tradition and simplicity, this booth type delivers charm and nostalgia.
What Is a 360 Camera Booth?
A 360 camera booth is the newer, trendier version everyone’s been talking about. Instead of taking still photos, this booth captures dynamic video clips. Guests stand on a platform while a camera spins 360 degrees around them, recording in slow motion or real-time.
The result? A cinematic video clip ready to share instantly on social media, complete with effects, soundtracks, and branding.
Key features of 360 booths:
- High-quality HD or 4K rotating videos
- Motion effects, slow-motion shots, and music overlays
- Instant sharing via text, email, QR code, or social media
- Fully customizable brand overlays for events
It’s the booth that turns every guest into the star of their own mini music video, perfect for today’s visually driven, social-media-savvy audiences.
Experience: Energy vs. Simplicity
The traditional photo booth offers a cozy, easygoing experience. Guests love striking poses and laughing at their printed photos, it’s intimate and familiar. For events with mixed age groups, it’s often the safer choice because everyone knows how it works.
The 360 camera booth, on the other hand, brings energy and excitement. The spin, music, and instant playback generate buzz around the event space. Guests line up not just to participate but to watch others in action. It becomes both a photo op and a performance.
If your event thrives on energy, think brand launches, galas, or big parties, the 360 booth steals the spotlight. But if you prefer a lower-key experience where guests can casually hop in and out, the traditional booth is perfect.
Visual Output: Still Photos vs. Dynamic Videos
When comparing the two booths, the biggest difference lies in output.
- Traditional booths capture photos – everlasting stills that can be printed or shared.
- 360 camera booths capture videos – immersive experiences that showcase motion and excitement.
For social media sharing, 360 videos often perform better on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Reels. They have higher engagement potential because they’re unique and eye-catching. However, photo prints from traditional booths have sentimental value, something guests love keeping as tangible souvenirs.
If your goal is to boost online presence and event publicity, go 360. If it’s about providing guests with keepsakes, the traditional booth wins.
Setup and Space Requirements
Traditional photo booths typically require less setup space. You can fit one into almost any venue in Vancouver, from cozy cafes and banquet halls to large conference centers.
A 360 camera booth usually needs more room because guests stand on a platform and the camera moves around them. You’ll also want open space for lighting and crowd movement.
General space comparison:
- Traditional booth: 6×6 to 8×8 feet
- 360 booth: 10×10 to 12×12 feet minimum
If your venue is tight on space, traditional may be more practical. However, if you’ve got the room and want to make a statement, the 360 setup becomes part of your event décor and entertainment.
Technology and Customization
Modern photo booths of both types are incredibly tech-driven, but the 360 camera booth takes it one step further. You can add branded overlays, slow-motion effects, confetti cannons, or LED lighting to match your theme.
Traditional booths also have customization options, branded templates, digital filters, backdrops, and print designs, but are more focused on photo quality and instant printing.
360 Booth customizations often include:
- Music sync for each video
- Motion graphic overlays
- Corporate branding or event logos
- Adjustable spin speed and camera angle
Traditional Booth customizations include:
- Branded photo strips or digital frames
- Green screen or themed backdrops
- Custom filter overlays
Both booths allow for branding and creativity, but the 360 booth gives you that “wow factor” modern audiences crave.
Cost: What You Get for Your Budget
When it comes to pricing, the 360 camera booth generally costs more to rent than a traditional photo booth, mainly due to the advanced equipment, setup time, and post-processing software.
However, both options can fit into your event budget depending on what you value most:
- Traditional booth rental in Vancouver: More affordable, typically ideal for weddings, birthday parties, and casual corporate events.
- 360 camera booth rental in Vancouver: Premium choice for large-scale corporate events, brand activations, and influencer-heavy gatherings.
Keep in mind that cost isn’t just about the booth itself, it’s about the experience it delivers and the impact it makes.
Popular Event Types for Each Booth
Best events for traditional photo booths:
- Weddings and anniversaries
- Family parties and reunions
- School events and fundraisers
- Office parties and casual celebrations
Best events for 360 camera booths:
- Corporate and brand activations
- Luxury weddings and galas
- Red carpet events
- Product launches, expos, or trade shows
- Influencer or social media-driven gatherings
Matching your event type to the right booth often determines how memorable your setup will be for attendees.
Which One Should You Rent?
If you’re still wondering which booth is best, here’s a quick way to think about it:
| Feature | 360 Camera Booth | Traditional Photo Booth |
|---|---|---|
| Output | Dynamic video clips | Still photos & prints |
| Ideal For | Modern, high-energy events | Classic celebrations |
| Shareability | High (social media focus) | Moderate |
| Setup Space | Larger | Smaller |
| Budget | Premium | Moderate |
| Guest Experience | Interactive, cinematic | Simple, nostalgic |
Choose the 360 camera booth if your event is all about energy, creativity, and online buzz. Choose the traditional photo booth if you want a timeless, easy-to-use experience with printed keepsakes.
And if you really can’t decide, some hosts rent both! It’s a dynamic combo that gives guests variety and ensures every type of memory is captured.
Why Choose Off the Reel in Vancouver
At Off the Reel, we specialize in creating unforgettable experiences through both 360 camera booths and traditional photo booths. Our professional team manages every detail, from setup to real-time sharing, so all you have to do is enjoy your event.
Whether you want cinematic 360 videos or classic photo strips, we tailor each booth to fit your theme, venue, and brand. Plus, our booths are fully equipped with the latest tech, sleek setups, and customizable options that wow guests every single time.
If your next event is in Vancouver, let Off the Reel help you capture it from every angle, literally. Contact us today to find out which booth is perfect for your celebration.