Vintage Photo Booths Reimagined in the Bay Area

In a surprising twist, vintage photo booths are experiencing a resurgence, blending nostalgic charm with the modern selfie craze. Kayla Kane, a 26-year-old content creator, highlights the appeal of these booths, noting that their unique lighting and photo quality often enhance appearances. For many young people, particularly teenagers and those in their twenties, these booths offer an authentic, unfiltered experience that contrasts sharply with the endless selfies popularized by social media influencers. Photoworks, an analog photography shop in San Francisco, has become a hotspot for this trend. Owner David Handler reports a significant influx of Gen Z customers since he installed a photo booth in May. The shop's atmosphere resembles a lively club, with young patrons flocking to capture their moments. Handler's enthusiasm reflects the growing demand for this nostalgic experience, as the booth has transformed his business into a bustling hub. Doug Ellington, co-founder of Photo-Matica, which operates over 200 booths nationwide, attributes the renewed interest to viral TikTok videos that have made photo booths trendy again. He expressed surprise at the popularity, noting the long lines forming at booths, a dream scenario for any business owner. As the trend continues to gain momentum, Kane is eager to share her experiences with her followers, further fueling the excitement surrounding this retro revival. The blend of old-school fun and contemporary social media engagement is redefining how young people capture their memories.