There’s an argument to be made that I love looking at photos of myself.  And while there is a certain amount of truth to that theory, the reality is that merely glancing at a photo can immediately transport you back to the time and place whence it was taken.  And if you happen to be in said photo, that simple glimpse – well, with any luck it will put a smile on your face and result in a flooding of serotonin to the brain.

Let’s face it.  None of us is getting any younger, and while I’d like to think that I’ll maintain my facilities as long as the next guy; Jacob will be the first to tell you that between the psych meds and burnt brain-cells, my once borderline eidetic memory has become a bit fuzzy around the edges.

Sure, the old-school photo booth producing a strip of three or four quick shots is still all that and the proverbial bowl of grits; but today’s newer high-tech models produce high-resolution photos, provide flattering lighting, allow superimposed customized “frames” branding the event, occasionally allow the subject to deploy the shutter, and oftentimes take the form of pop-up mini-studios (à la prom) with strobes and fills, before printing-out your picture on 4” x 6” photo paper.  In some cases, the images are even uploaded to a website, where you can peruse (and download) images of your friends, from the event.

And while these will never equal the experience of having a pro like Douglas Friedman shot your portrait, using one of the legendary 20” x 24” Polaroid Film Cameras – because (a) there are only five such cameras remaining in existence, and (b) in addition to being absurdly talented, Friedman is one of the most dashing gents in New York, is better looking than most of his subjects, and is as sweet as the day is long – it’s a bit too spendy for most functions/venues/etc., and requires that the subject(s) stand still(ish), under hot lights, while the camera is prepped.

So, the next time you’re out with your peeps, and spy a photo booth – corral the posse and pile in.  It’s a fun, cheap, and easy way to ensure that you hold-on to the memories of those good times.

Photo Booths

Get into it!