Polaroid of my brother, Blake & Kelly’s wedding

I’ve recently gained inspiration from an amazing book, American Photobooth. It highlights the history of the photo booth and has an incredible collection of images that have been created in these booths throughout the last century. The book is a great reminder of the power of the singular, unique keepsake.

A spread from American Photobooth

I wanted to recreate a similar take-away for guests at wedding receptions that I’m photographing. I also love the idea of these images living in only the physical form. I felt it was best to have a fixed environment (camera doesn’t move) as well as having the subjects sit. Within these constraints, like with a classic photo booth, subjects can get creative with how they use the space. People are encouraged to get in close which inevitably creates fun and spontaneous imagery. In January, Caleb & I created our first booth at Blake & Kelly’s wedding reception using a Polaroid back on a Mamiya RZ 67.

Branden created and printed a card with Kelly & Blake’s custom logo. Then, he hand-cut four slits on each card which allowed the polaroid to be slipped in easily. After the polaroid was taken, the subjects were handed the image and were able to take home a fantastic keepsake from the wedding.

We shot over 200 Polaroids for guests at Kelly & Blake’s wedding. I love the idea that Kelly & Blake will be viewing images from their wedding over the next few years as they visit friends and family’s homes.