The Rise of Vintage Film Photo Booths
As with most things in today's culture, vintage is in. Vintage film photo booths, first invented by Anatol Josepho in 1925, have seen a massive resurgence. The warm, grainy, film-inspired aesthetic has become highly sought after, fueled by social media trends and celebrity nostalgia.
The challenge? Authentic film photo booths are rare, with only about 250 publicly usable vintage booths estimated to exist worldwide. In Portland, iconic spots like the former Ace Hotel once housed true analog booths. Today, while many booths maintain their 1950s-1980s vintage shells, the 'guts' are often high-quality digital systems—offering the perfect blend of classic style and modern reliability.
Looking for an authentic vintage vibe?
Top 5 Vintage-Inspired Photo Booths in Portland
1. KEX Hotel Lobby (Pacific Standard Bar)
Voted one of the best new bars, Pacific Standard houses a 1950s vintage Model 11 cabinet. Originally located at Dig A Pony, this booth is a piece of history. The Model 11 is arguably the most iconic booth ever, even appearing in The Beatles' A Hard Day's Night.
2. Holocene
A staple of Portland's music and arts scene, Holocene features a photo booth modeled after the classic Model 11. Nestled in their upper bar and lounge, it's the perfect way to capture memories from an immersive concert or dance party.
“Vintage style combined with modern technology is the new norm. You get the aesthetic you love with the reliability you need.”– Portland Events Team
3. Laurelhurst Theater
A community icon since 1923, this historic theater in NE Portland features a booth modeled after the Model 11, matching the building's storied character.
4. Oaks Park
One of the oldest operating amusement parks in America, Oaks Park houses its photo booth in the roller rink. It's a classic fun-filled destination that pairs perfectly with a photo strip.
5. Moxy Hotel
For a modern twist, the Moxy Hotel booth is wrapped in mirrored steel, standing as a shiny monolith disco ball in their vibrant lobby.
Ready to Create Your Own Vintage Memories?
Whether it's a wedding, corporate event, or a simple celebration, our premium photo booths bring that classic Portland charm to your venue with all the modern professional features you expect.
