Portrait Studios at Wedding Receptions Are the Interactive and Personalized Trend Guests Love—Here's How to Create Your Own
In the age of curated wedding content and keepsake-worthy moments, some couples are taking a more refined approach to reception photos. However, it's not just about swapping disposable cameras for a photo booth. Instead, they're creating a one-of-a-kind portrait studio, a dedicated space where guests can have professional pictures taken in front of a backdrop. 'A wedding reception portrait studio is a bespoke experience that adds an editorial, high-fashion element to your celebration,' says Jamésa Alexander, a wedding planner. 'It's a designated space—typically activated during cocktail hour or the reception—where guests can enjoy a complimentary photo session in front of a professionally designed backdrop.'Jamésa Alexander is a wedding planner and the owner of Jayne Heir Events, a full-service event planning company.
Rebecca Jordan is a Tampa-based family, lifestyle, and wedding photographer.
Angela Carter is an event planner and the founder of Carter Group Creative.Unlike a standard booth with props and a countdown screen, this setup offers your guests a red-carpet moment they'll actually want to frame. Wedding photographer Rebecca Jordan agrees: 'It's a chance for your guests to take a really nice portrait together or with the couple. It gives a sophisticated experience, having a professional photographer there.' And beyond the glam? It's a genuinely thoughtful gesture. While traditional wedding favors often get left behind at the end of the night, a portrait is something guests will take home, frame, and cherish for years to come.
Whether you opt for a sleek and minimalist look or create a scene that reflects your wedding aesthetic, this trend is a modern way to enhance your reception (and give guests something a bit more long-lasting than a bag of Jordan almonds). Here, the experts break down how to incorporate this trend into your big day.
Related: 10 Hallmarks of a Modern Wedding, From the Flowers and Food to the Photography
Reception portrait studios may feel like a fresh idea, but they're actually a modern revival of an old-school wedding tradition. 'They used to be really popular back in the day, and they're trending again because they offer a truly elevated experience,' Jordan says. Unlike candid dance floor shots or rushed table photos—where guests are often caught mid-bite or half-turned at a round table—a portrait studio gives everyone the opportunity to feel seen, styled, and special. 'It's a way to show your guests that you care about them,' Jordan adds. 'You're not just hoping they get a nice photo—you're inviting them to have one taken.'
Part of the appeal is that it's both thoughtful and functional. 'Professional photos are a sophisticated twist that's both personal and polished,' says Angela Carter, an event planner. 'They also tick both the entertainment and guest-favor boxes.' Alexander agrees that the trend is rooted in the desire for next-level, immersive experiences. 'Today's couples—and their guests—crave more than casual snapshots,' she says 'They want something that feels intentional.' Drawing inspiration from red-carpet moments and editorial shoots, these styled spaces feel both luxurious and fun.
A wedding portrait studio can be one of the most memorable features of your reception—but only if you treat it like an experience, not an afterthought. Here's where couples tend to go wrong (and how to fix it).
One of the biggest missteps is saving the portrait studio for too late in the night. When guests are deep into dinner, drinks, and dancing, a quiet corner with a camera can get overlooked. Jordan recommends opening the studio earlier in the day, such as during cocktail hour or even before the ceremony.
If guests don't know about the studio—or don't realize it's a 'come get your cover moment' situation—they might miss it entirely. Alexander suggests noting it on your wedding website, putting up signage at the venue, or even giving it a quick mention during your welcome speech. And if you want to nudge guests toward that red-carpet energy, let them know ahead of time they'll be photographed.
This isn't your cousin manning a ring light and iPad. A portrait studio requires someone behind the camera who knows what they're doing—ideally, a dedicated second shooter. 'Your main photographer is going to be with you most of the night,' says Jordan, who notes that without someone running the studio, the setup might go unused or end up filled with blurry iPhone snaps.
Yes, photo booths are fun—but this is a portrait studio. There's a difference. Over-the-top props or inflatable flamingos can make the space feel cheap or out of sync with your wedding aesthetic. Jordan suggests styling the area with furniture or décor that aligns with the rest of your design (think: a velvet armchair or curated floral arrangement instead of feather boas). The area should feel like an intentional extension of your event, not a clunky add-on, Alexander adds.
If your studio is tucked in some random hallway or away from the action, guests won't bother trekking over. Instead, situate it near the bar or lounge, says Alexander, so people naturally wander through it. Carter adds that proximity to the main event space keeps energy up and encourages participation—without pulling guests away from the party.
After capturing the photos, don't forget to give them to your guests. Whether you opt for digital files, a post-wedding gallery, or even framed prints on-site, providing the finished product makes all the difference. 'It's a memorable gift they'll treasure,' says Alexander.
Related: Taking Engagement Photos Soon? These Expert-Approved Fashion Tips Will Help You Avoid Photo Regret
The cost of a wedding portrait studio can vary widely depending on your guest count, location, and how elaborate the setup is, but remember that this isn't your average photo booth add-on. According to Alexander, couples investing in a fully customized, high-end experience with premium lighting, set design, and a dedicated photographer can expect to spend anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. 'The more intricate the production, the higher the price tag,' she says.
For a more minimalist approach, know that you'll likely still be looking at a starting price in the low thousands. Smaller weddings or simpler setups might come in closer to $500 to $2,000, especially if you're only running the studio during cocktail hour or using fewer design elements. But as Jordan explains: 'Even for a scaled-down version, you'll need to budget for a second shooter, professional lighting, and editing. $1,000 is a solid baseline to plan for.'
From choosing the perfect backdrop to timing it just right, there's an art to pulling off a reception portrait studio that actually delivers. Here, the experts explain what couples tend to overlook—and the small upgrades that can make a major difference.
Want your portrait studio to feel like more than just a simple photo opportunity? Start with the backdrop. Jordan recommends opting for a hand-painted canvas in your wedding colors—or even creating your own for a more personal touch. For added dimension, she suggests incorporating florals, like an arch or elegant arrangements in vases, to elevate the space. 'The flowers and the chairs really make it an experience for the guests,' she says.
As mentioned, a striking chair or vintage settee doesn't just look great—it adds variety and comfort. 'Special pieces of furniture bring dimension to the photos,' Jordan says. 'They're also perfect for elderly guests or anyone who'd prefer to sit for their portrait.'
You don't want guests to miss the setup altogether. 'Have it somewhere very clear, where people can see the lighting and the backdrop and feel drawn to it,' says Jordan. Visibility encourages participation and helps guests recognize it as a core part of the wedding experience.
That said, avoid putting it smack in the middle of the action. 'You want people to notice it, but still feel comfortable,' adds Jordan. As hallway guests walk through on the way to cocktail hour is ideal—close enough to be inviting, but not so central that it feels awkward or disruptive.
Timing matters. That's why Jordan suggests opening the portrait studio earlier in the evening—before people feel too sweaty or tired. 'This is supposed to be a special moment, where guests can have a beautiful portrait taken while they're still feeling polished and put together,' she says.
If you want to go all out, think beyond the camera. 'Enhancing the experience with a nearby bar or passed drinks keeps guests happy and engaged,' says Carter. And for a truly showstopping moment? Add personal touches. 'A standout portrait studio reflects your story,' says Alexander.
At the end of the day, a portrait studio isn't just another wedding trend—it's a gift to your guests. As Jordan puts it, 'It's a present for them... it lets them know we value that they're here to celebrate with us.' When done right—with thoughtful timing, intentional design, and maybe even a few florals—it becomes a moment they'll remember long after the cake is cut.
Up Next: Is the Blurry Wedding Photo Trend Here to Stay?
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