Photo Booths in Johannesburg: Where to Snap, Spin, and Print in 2026

The photo booth comeback Jozi didn’t see coming

Photo booths have quietly worked their way back into Joburg life. What used to be a novelty tucked between arcade games is now part of how we celebrate birthdays, brand launches, weddings, and even casual mall days. In 2026, snapping a quick strip or spinning in a 360-degree video booth feels as normal as grabbing a takeaway coffee.

Across Johannesburg, these booths have become mini memory stations. Some are permanent fixtures in malls; others pop up for a weekend market or glide into private parties fully staffed and styled.

Malls where you can stumble into a snap

If you are after a spontaneous photo moment, shopping malls are still your best bet. Large centres often place booths near cinemas, food courts, or entertainment zones. Regular sightings happen at places like Sandton City, Mall of Africa, and Eastgate Shopping Centre.

These are usually classic booths offering instant strips and digital copies. They are popular with teens, couples, and families killing time between shops. Availability can change, so a quick check at the mall info desk usually saves time.

Dedicated selfie studios for content lovers

Johannesburg’s selfie studios have given the photo booth a glow-up. Instead of squeezing into a curtained booth, you step into styled rooms with lighting, props, and playful backdrops.

One of the names locals recognise is DreamBox Selfie Studio. These studios let you shoot on your own phone, share instantly, and take your time experimenting. They work for walk-ins, small groups, and anyone chasing Instagram-ready content without the pressure of a countdown timer.

Studios like this have grown alongside Joburg’s creator culture. They are as much about hanging out as they are about the photos.

Event venues where booths steal the show

From rooftop sundowners to inner-city warehouses, photo booths have become a staple at Joburg events. Venues such as Katy’s Palace, The Tin Factory, and 1 Fox Street regularly host functions where a booth is part of the experience rather than an afterthought.

Guests expect more than a basic snap. 360-degree video booths, interactive mirror booths, and themed setups now dominate the floor, often drawing longer queues than the bar.

The companies bringing booths to you

Most of the city’s photo booths are mobile. Event hire companies deliver, set up, and run them across Johannesburg and beyond.

Well-known operators include Moose Booths and Selfie Cube. Both are regulars at corporate events, private parties, and weddings. Their offerings range from classic enclosed booths to 360-degree video platforms with props, custom prints, and instant online galleries.

Other familiar names in Jozi include ChilliPix, Propel Media, WonderBooth, and QuikPix. Each brings its own style, from inflatable pods to magic mirrors and branded experiences.

What kind of photo booth experience to expect

In 2026, most booths deliver more than a printed strip. Many use DSLR cameras, studio lighting, and fast printers. Digital sharing is standard, with QR codes and galleries sent straight to your phone.

You can expect playful props, themed backdrops, and custom designs for events. Some booths even offer AI-style backgrounds or slow-motion effects, which explains why social media feeds often light up with booth clips after a big Joburg weekend.

How locals actually find them

Joburgers are practical about tracking down a booth. Mall directories and entertainment listings are the first stop. Instagram searches using local hashtags often reveal pop-ups and studio openings. Event deal sites sometimes run voucher offers for selfie studios or booth sessions.

Markets and festivals are another hotspot. Temporary booths often appear at weekend markets and brand activations, turning a regular outing into a keepsake moment.

Why photo booths still matter

There is something very Joburg about photo booths surviving every trend cycle. In a city that loves a good gathering, they offer instant nostalgia in a digital age. Whether it is a mall snap with friends or a polished 360-degree spin at a wedding, photo booths continue to give Jozi memories you can actually hold or replay.

In 2026, they are not just back. They are part of how the city celebrates itself.

Also read: Inside Joburg’s Wits Digital Dome: A 360-Degree Space Experience

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Featured Image: The Photo Booth