Why does a photo booth rental cost so much?

There have been a few times when prospective clients have not chosen to book with my company because they had found another company for less money. I completely understand that due to budgets, I might be out of their price range. Overall, my prices are quite competitive but at the same time non-negotiable. This applies to the majority of photo booth owners in the Chicagoland area. So, for many to understand why photobooth companies are so steadfast on their pricing, I want to share a list of my current expenses.

Please know that the following list does not reflect the purchase of the photo booths and all that it includes: Canon T5i and Canon T6i cameras, high resolution color printers, iPads for social media use, additional lighting, plain and sequined backdrops , green screen, and (3) dolly. 

 
There is an equation that I follow to calculate what I need to charge per event. Here is a breakdown of that equation:

(Cost of equipment + Expenses per event + Expenses for the year)/events per year= rental rate 

I bring about $6,000 worth of equipment with me to each event. This includes the photo booth, printer, camera, backdrop, backdrop stands, props, and hotspot fees. 

Expenses for the year:

* Payroll

* Media for printer: photo paper and ink ribbon.

* Gas for car

* Photo Strip template

* Advertisement

* Website host & Domain

* Storage for machines and equipment

* 17 hats: Service that we use to send and create Questionnaires, Service Agreements, and Invoices
  
* Hotspot fees

* Insurance

* E-mail address

* PicPic Social: Service that uploads the photos taken from the event to our website.

* Speedify

* Media

* Props

* Scrapbooks

* Supplies for Scrapbook

I add up all the numbers and divide that number by events I have a year and that equals my rental charge. 

I understand that regardless of my expenses that prospective clients are on a very tight budget. So, my final words are that having a photo booth at any celebration always provides a source of entertainment for you and your guests.