Case Study: Elevating Brand Activations with Rent My Booth at Travel + Leisure's World's Best Summit
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

Case Study: Elevating Brand Activations with Rent My Booth at Travel + Leisure's World's Best Summit

At the 2025 World’s Best Summit, Rent My Booth helped Travel + Leisure Magazine transform a custom airplane set into a standout conference activation. With a full-service, high-touch photo experience that combined professional photography, guest coaching, custom branding, and instant sharing, the activation created buzz both online and on-site. From editors and influencers to the internal event team, everyone left with something they were proud to post—and a deeper connection to the brand.

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How a One-Day Pride Activation at Framebridge Became a Case Study in Connection
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

How a One-Day Pride Activation at Framebridge Became a Case Study in Connection

When Framebridge wanted to bring more people into their Greenwich Village store during NYC Pride, they invited Rent My Booth to create an in-store experience that felt joyful, personal, and community-driven. What unfolded was a one-day activation that turned casual foot traffic into heartfelt conversations, framed memories, and genuine brand engagement. From longtime locals to first-time visitors, the photo booth sparked connection—not just content—and gave both guests and staff a reason to celebrate.

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One of NYC’s Top 5 Photo Booths? Here’s What That Really Means.

One of NYC’s Top 5 Photo Booths? Here’s What That Really Means.

Today, Rent My Booth is listed as one of the Top 5 Photo Booths in NYC on The Bash. That recognition means a lot to me. Not because I have the most gear or the flashiest setup. It means people feel the difference when they hire someone who genuinely cares.

This is a photo booth that makes guests light up. That looks good in the room. That produces photos people actually keep. And I’m proud to say I run it myself.

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Katy Perry’s Breakup Reminds Us: Great Photo Booth Photos Outlast Almost Everything

Katy Perry’s Breakup Reminds Us: Great Photo Booth Photos Outlast Almost Everything

Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom may be over, but one thing that hasn’t faded? That iconic photo booth–style shoot where Katy reminded us how powerful it is to take up space—solo, styled, and fully herself. In this post, NYC-based photo booth creator Ben Hawes reflects on why great photos outlast breakups, and how stepping into the frame (with or without a partner) is always worth it.

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This FDNY Pride Celebration Proved How Powerful a Photo Booth Can Be. Especially at Work Events.

This FDNY Pride Celebration Proved How Powerful a Photo Booth Can Be. Especially at Work Events.

When I walked into FireFlag EMS’s Pride celebration, I knew it was going to be a good night. But I didn’t expect to get emotional during Dancing Queen or feel such a deep sense of connection in a room full of firefighters and paramedics I’d never met.

This was more than a party. It was a moment of visibility, joy, and community. And right in the middle of it all was my photo booth — a place where people laughed, posed, and celebrated exactly who they are.

From a surprise performance by the Stonewall Chorale to seeing my logo next to the Pride flag and the FDNY emblem, this event reminded me why I do what I do.

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REPORT: Why a Photo Booth Might Be the Perfect High-Impact, Affordable Solution for Your Next Team Event or Offsite
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

REPORT: Why a Photo Booth Might Be the Perfect High-Impact, Affordable Solution for Your Next Team Event or Offsite

If you're planning a team event, you're probably hoping for more than just a nice venue and an open bar. You want people to connect—to loosen up, laugh together, and make memories that actually stick. That’s exactly what a photo booth can help do.

It gives your employees something to do together, not just something to look at. And those photos? They’re more than keepsakes. They’re real moments you can share on Slack, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, or the company newsletter. It’s high impact without the big production.

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What’s Actually Included When You Book A Photo  Booth?
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

What’s Actually Included When You Book A Photo Booth?

If I had a dollar for every time someone asked,
“What do we actually get when we book you?”
…I could buy myself a sequin jacket in every color. But let’s talk about it, because the answer is important.

This isn’t just “rent a box and hope it works” territory. This is a full-on experience—hosted by me, run by me, and designed to make your event feel like the kind of party people talk about on Monday.

Here’s exactly what’s included when you hire me and Rent My Booth for your NYC event:

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NYC Pride Photo Booth Rentals from a Queer Business Owner in the East Village
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

NYC Pride Photo Booth Rentals from a Queer Business Owner in the East Village

Whether you’re throwing a corporate Pride event, a drag show at a bar, a fundraiser, or a backyard party, I bring the kind of setup that actually feels like part of the experience. I don’t drop off a booth and walk away. I stay the whole time, hype the crowd, adjust the lighting, and make sure people walk away with photos they’re excited about.

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How Much Does a Photo Booth Cost in NYC?
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

How Much Does a Photo Booth Cost in NYC?

Photo booth rentals in the city can range from $200 to over $2,000, depending on what kind of experience you're after.

Here’s a quick guide:

• $200–$600 → Very basic setups, digital-only, no printing, usually no host, usually 1-2 hours, and smaller parties

• $600–$1,200 → Where most great booths live (including Rent My Booth!)—prints, pro lighting, fun props, and a real human (Me, Ben!) running the show

• $1,200–$1,500 → Even more customization, upgraded visuals, and added polish

• $1,500+ → High-glam, editorial-style booths (think black & white, no props, Kardashian vibes-- focused on the quality of the photo vs the human experience & fun)

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Case Study: Why NYC Companies Are Investing in Photo Booths for Corporate Events in 2025
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

Case Study: Why NYC Companies Are Investing in Photo Booths for Corporate Events in 2025

When NYC companies plan their internal events, there’s a growing expectation that these gatherings do more than entertain—they need to reflect company values, drive employee engagement, and create content that supports internal and external brand goals. For many teams, a professional photo booth has become a surprisingly effective solution.

Rent My Booth, a boutique NYC photo booth rental service run by local business owner Ben Hawes, is helping companies rethink what a modern corporate event can look like—and why a well-designed photo booth is more than just a fun extra.

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Case Study: How Ben Hawes Elevated Force Brands’ 80s Party with a Themed Photo Booth Experience
corporate events, themes, east village Ben Hawes corporate events, themes, east village Ben Hawes

Case Study: How Ben Hawes Elevated Force Brands’ 80s Party with a Themed Photo Booth Experience

Ben immediately started brainstorming the visual elements that would bring the theme to life. He proposed a shimmering tinsel backdrop in shades of pink, silver, and purple, along with an assortment of 80s-inspired props. These included vinyl records, inflatable guitars, oversized sunglasses, and a signature red 80s-style cell phone. More than just creating an aesthetic, Ben worked closely with Force Brands’ event organizer, Rachel, to ensure that the booth’s design aligned with the company’s vision.

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Surprise Party Idea in Brooklyn: James & Julia’s Anniversary
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

Surprise Party Idea in Brooklyn: James & Julia’s Anniversary

When Leia planned a surprise anniversary party for her beloved friends James and Julia, she wanted it to be unforgettable. With a cozy Brooklyn venue, signature cocktails, and plenty of love in the air, the night was made even more special with Rent My Booth’s digital photo booth and behind-the-scenes photography.

Read more to relive this magical evening!

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Wedding Photographer vs Photo Booth: Which one is better?
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

Wedding Photographer vs Photo Booth: Which one is better?

The question often arises of whether to hire a wedding photographer or include a photo booth at your reception—and it’s a valid question! Of course, you want those classic shots of your wedding dress, the first dance, the cake, and more. But there are also benefits to having a photo booth. See!

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2024 NYC Event Trends - Check this list for your next event
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

2024 NYC Event Trends - Check this list for your next event

As a frequent party vendor, I’ve been to so many events in New York City, and I’m here to share some trends— if you’ve been wondering what is popular at events these days this is the article for you. Events are happening all over New York City— corporate events, fundraisers, school proms and graduations, weddings, and more. As the summer approaches, use these trends to boost your NYC event.

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How I Started My New York City Photo Booth Biz
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

How I Started My New York City Photo Booth Biz

I was turning 25 that June, and I threw myself a gala. And I mean, a GALA. I had a Nick Jonas Calvin Klein cake (just picture it), I had awesome golden decorations and sparklers, a signature drink, and I knew one thing was for SURE- ya boy was going to have a Photo Booth!

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2024 Great Wedding Ideas for Creative Photo Booth Backdrops
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

2024 Great Wedding Ideas for Creative Photo Booth Backdrops

If you’re gearing up for your big wedding day, chances are you’re considering adding a photo booth to the festivities – and who wouldn’t? It’s a blast! But before you dive into the details, let’s talk backdrops. Yep, that’s right, the backdrop sets the stage for all those fabulous photo moments!

So, what’s the deal with backdrops? Well, they’re kind of a big deal. Think of them as the mood-setters for your photo booth pics. And guess what? You’ve got options!

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NYC Weddings: Why a Photo Booth is a Must for Unforgettable Memories
Ben Hawes Ben Hawes

NYC Weddings: Why a Photo Booth is a Must for Unforgettable Memories

Ah, the whirlwind of wedding planning! So many details to consider, from the guest list to the decorations, and everything in between. But amidst the chaos, there's a moment of serenity awaiting you on your big day. Picture it: you're surrounded by loved ones, basking in the glow of their affection, and feeling like the most radiant version of yourself. This is when you want to make sure you have a great photo booth to capture the memories.

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