Picture These Memories

By Chelle Cordero

May 11, 2023 4 min read

Your wedding is a time for starting a new life and making new memories; why not throw a twist into the otherwise ordinary traditions and keepsakes? Consider making your wedding guest book more than just a simple listing of your guests. Make the best memories of the day last forever. Even if you hire a professional photographer or have a friend take photos, invite your guests to define themselves with "selfies," words of advice and loving thoughts in a photo guest book.

Ah ... sounds like a great idea! What will you need, and how can you do this? Purchase a supply of inexpensive and easy-to-use instant cameras, plus film; a rough estimate is to allow one camera per 40 guests and allow at least three photos per guest to allow for redos and/or personal keepsakes. Depending on the camera's power source, don't forget batteries, charging cords or USB connections. Many guests will take small group shots, and others will want their own visage alone. Set up a table, preferably near the rear of your reception area so it will not interfere with announcements, the first dance or music.

Supply several felt markers and a scrapbook or guest book for people to sign their pics and enter comments into the guestbook; depending on the printed photos (some have self-stick backings), you might also need self-stick tape. Choose low-light cameras, or flash options, if your setting will be dimly lit (such as an evening outdoor event).

As an alternative to allowing your guests to put their photos into the guestbook, you can also place a basket or "mailbox" on the table for them to drop their signed photos into and arrange the photos yourself AFTER the honeymoon. If you want to add some whimsy to the project, you can also supply a few props (masks, feather boas, hats, etc.) and let your guests take pictures photobooth-style.

Polaroid instant cameras were called a "pop culture phenomenon" in the 1970s. Instant film, the technical term used by American company Polaroid, has been in use for more than 70 years. There has been a resurgence in instant photos with modifications that have made it more accessible and easier to use. The independent photography review company Eksposure recommends the following instant cameras: Fujifilm Instax Mini 11, Polaroid Originals OneStep+, Polaroid Now and Polaroid Snap. Consumer Reports likes the Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 and the Canon Ivy Cliq.

Fujifilm's Instax Mini 11 features an automatic exposure function to ensure good lighting and a selfie option. The Kodak Printomatic prints photos immediately on Kodak Zink Photo Paper, offers a sticky back to mount in scrapbooks, and can save each photo to a mini-SD cartridge. Several cameras are available to fit different budgets, and some add-ons may be included or need to be purchased separately. Online stores such as Amazon, B&H Photo Video and Etsy, as well as storefront retailers like Walmart, Best Buy and Target, are all suppliers of instant cameras to use for your wedding or other event (this article is not a complete listing of sources, nor is it an endorsement of products or retailers).

Pick cameras that are sturdy and simple to use by multiple people. Place a sign on the table with simple directions about how to use the camera and what to do with the finished pictures. You might also want to thank your guests in advance for helping to make your day even more memorable.

It's recommended that you have at least one person who will supervise the table and cameras during your wedding; you and your new spouse should not have to attend to this! This person will have to help guests who don't know how to use the camera, keep the film loaded and keep the cameras charged. Make sure that whoever oversees this, whether a friend or employee of the venue, is familiar with the equipment and can handle most, if not all, surprises that may come up.

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