Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is instant photography?

Instant photography uses cameras that instantly print photos as soon as they’re taken, like a Polaroid. Unlike traditional digital photography, where photos need to be printed later, instant photos provide guests with a physical keepsake they can take home right away! At Instant Photo Chicago, we use Fujifilm Instax cameras for vibrant, high-quality photos that guests will love. We also offer vintage Polaroid film photos for those dreamy vibes!

2. How does your instant photo service work at events?

Our instant photographers capture special moments at your event using Fujifilm Instax Mini or Wide cameras. As soon as we take a photo, it’s instantly printed and handed to your guests—no waiting! Whether it's a wedding, corporate event, or birthday party, our instant photo service adds an extra element of fun and nostalgia to your celebration.

3. How much does instant event photography cost?

The cost of our instant event photography services varies depending on the event’s size, duration, and location. We offer several packages to suit different needs, contact us for a custom quote tailored to your event!

4. Can I customize my event’s instant photo prints?

Yes! We offer custom branding to the instant photos using clear stickers. 2 week prep time required.

5. What types of events do you photograph?

We specialize in a wide range of events, including:

• Weddings

• Corporate events

• Birthday parties

• Holiday parties

• Festivals and community events

• Trade shows and exhibitions

No matter what type of event you're hosting, our instant photography service adds a unique touch to any celebration!

6. How far in advance should I book your services?

We recommend booking our instant photography service at least 1-2 months in advance, especially during peak event seasons (spring, summer, and the holidays). However, we’re happy to accommodate last-minute bookings if we have availability.

7. Can guests keep their instant photos?

Absolutely! One of the best parts of our service is that guests get to take home their instant photos as a keepsake. Whether it's a wedding, birthday, or corporate event, your guests will cherish the memories they capture.

8. Do you provide digital copies of the photos?

Yes! Yes. We can scan the instant photos and deliver a digital gallery after the event. After the photos are fully developed (about 5 mins) we scan the instant photo with a high-quality photo scanner and upload them to an online gallery where guests can download their digitized photo immediately.

9. How many photos can we expect to receive during our event?

The number of photos we take depends on the length of your event and the package you choose. On average, you can expect 50-75 photos per hour. Our photographers are always ready to capture the best moments, ensuring everyone gets a photo to remember the event!

10. What cities do you offer event photography services in?

We provide instant event photography services in Chicago and the surrounding areas. If you're planning an event outside of our usual service areas, please get in touch—we may be able to accommodate your location for an additional fee.

11. Can you photograph large events or crowds?

Yes, we’re fully equipped to handle events of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to large corporate events and festivals. Please note that with the mini film size, group shots don’t work for groups of more than 10 people but, our photographers can move through the crowd and make sure everyone has a fun, memorable photo.

12. What makes your instant photo service different from traditional photo booths?

Unlike traditional photo booths, which often use outdated, low-quality technology, our Fujifilm Instax Mini and Wide cameras deliver vibrant, high-quality instant prints that are small and portable. Plus, we provide a personal touch by allowing your guests to interact directly with the photographer, capturing spontaneous, candid moments throughout the event.

13. Are the instant photos waterproof or smudge-proof?

Yes! Our Fujifilm Instax photos are made from high-quality material that is resistant to water and smudging, ensuring your guests’ photos stay looking great for years to come.

14. How do I book your instant photography service for my event?

Booking our instant photography service is easy! Simply visit our booking page here, fill out the form with your event details, and we'll get back to you with a quote and availability. You can also reach out to us via phone or email for more information.

15. Is this a photo booth?

No. Instant Photo Chicago offers roaming instant photography, not a traditional photo booth. Instead of standing in line at a fixed backdrop, our photographers move throughout your event capturing candid moments, group photos, and spontaneous interactions. Guests receive a real instant film photo within minutes, creating a more natural and engaging experience.

16. Do guests have to wait in line?

No. Since our photographers roam throughout the event, guests are photographed wherever the action is happening. There are no long lines, no waiting for a turn, and no interruption to the flow of your celebration or event.

17. What is roaming instant photography?

Roaming instant photography is a mobile photography experience where a professional photographer walks through your event taking photos and handing guests real instant film prints on the spot. It's designed to capture authentic moments while giving guests a keepsake they can take home immediately.

18. What is the difference between Instax Mini, Instax Wide, and Polaroid?

Each film offers a different look and experience.

Instax Mini is compact and wallet-sized, making it perfect for weddings, parties, and guests who want to carry their photos with them.

Instax Wide creates a larger print that's ideal for families, group photos, corporate activations, and branded events where extra space is helpful.

Polaroid produces the largest and most nostalgic prints with rich colors and a timeless vintage look. It's our premium option for luxury weddings, brand activations, and events where the photography experience itself is part of the attraction.

19. Which film is best for weddings?

For most weddings, we recommend Instax Mini because it's easy for guests to carry throughout the reception and fits perfectly into guest books and keepsake albums. Instax Wide is a great option for larger family groups, while Polaroid is ideal for couples looking for a premium, nostalgic experience.

20. Which film is best for corporate events?

Instax Wide is usually the best choice for corporate events because the larger print works well for branded graphics, logos, and sponsor messaging. Instax Mini is excellent for high-volume activations, while Polaroid creates a memorable premium experience for VIP events, product launches, and luxury brands.

21. Can instant photos be branded?

Absolutely. We offer several branding options including custom sleeves, branded photo holders, logo placement, event graphics, and other custom touches that help your photos reflect your company or event identity.

22. Can you add logos or QR codes?

Yes. Logos, event names, sponsor graphics, and QR codes can all be incorporated into custom photo sleeves, branded holders, or other printed materials. QR codes are a great way to direct guests to your website, social media, event information, or marketing campaign.

23. How many guests can one photographer cover?

Coverage depends on the pace of the event, but one photographer typically captures approximately 50 to 75 instant photos per hour while still maintaining a relaxed, personal experience. For larger events, additional photographers can be added to ensure more guests are photographed.

24. Do you work in dark venues?

Yes. We regularly photograph weddings, receptions, restaurants, bars, ballrooms, and evening events with challenging lighting. Professional lighting equipment allows us to create bright, flattering instant photos while preserving the atmosphere of the venue.

25. Do you need a backdrop?

No. Our photographers work throughout your event using the venue itself as the backdrop. This creates photos that feel more natural and tells the story of the event. If you'd like a dedicated photo area, we're happy to work with your existing backdrop or branded installation.

26. Can photos go into a guest book?

Yes. Instant photos are perfect for guest books. Many couples ask guests to leave a photo alongside a handwritten message, creating a keepsake filled with memories from the wedding day.

27. Can we get digital scans?

Yes. We offer high-quality digital scans of your instant photos as an optional add-on. This allows you to enjoy the original film while also sharing the images online or preserving them digitally.

28. How long do Polaroids take to develop?

Polaroid photos begin appearing almost immediately but reach their best quality after about 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, they should be protected from bright light to ensure the best colors and image quality.

29. Do you travel outside Chicago?

Yes. Instant Photo Chicago serves Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, and we're available for events throughout Illinois and beyond. Travel fees may apply depending on the event location.

info@instantphotochicago.com

(312) 767-8408