# Help Center Home

<h2 align="center">Simple Booth Support</h2>

<p align="center">Find quick answers, helpful guides, and practical tips to set up, customize, and troubleshoot your photo booth.</p>

<p align="center"><button type="button" class="button primary" data-action="search" data-icon="magnifying-glass">Search all documentation...</button></p>

***

## Two Products, One Platform

Simple Booth makes two types of photo booths for in person and remote events.&#x20;

<table data-card-size="large" data-column-title-hidden data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><h4><strong>HALO App</strong></h4></td><td>Advanced iPad app for on-site events with powerful customization and marketing tools.</td><td><mark style="background-color:$info;">iPad Only - on-site booth</mark></td></tr><tr><td><h4><strong>Virtual Booth</strong></h4></td><td>Browser-based booth participants open from their own phone, tablet, or computer — no download required.</td><td><mark style="background-color:$info;">Any device - remote friendly</mark></td></tr></tbody></table>

<p align="center"><a href="https://www.simplebooth.com/plans" class="button primary">Features &#x26; Pricing</a></p>

***

{% columns %}
{% column %}

### Running the HALO App

**Prepare, launch, troubleshoot.**&#x20;

Step-by-step guides for getting your booth ready and keeping it running smoothly — from the first time iPad setup through post-event photo recovery.
{% endcolumn %}

{% column %}

* [**Preparing for Events**](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event) Download the app and secure your iPad
* [**Customization Guides**](https://docs.simplebooth.com/customization-guide) Customize the pictures and booth experience
* [**Quick Troubleshooting Help**](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/quick-troubleshooting-guide) Guidance on resolving common problems
* [**Offline Queue**](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/offline-upload-queue) uploads are stored in the app when your iPad is offline
  {% endcolumn %}
  {% endcolumns %}

***

{% columns %}
{% column %}

### Running Virtual Booth

**Set up, share, go live.**

Step-by-step guides for building your browser-based booth and getting it in front of participants — from creating your first preset through sharing access and wrapping up your event.
{% endcolumn %}

{% column %}

* [**Splash Page Customizations**](https://docs.simplebooth.com/virtual-booth-setup/branding-and-customizations/splash-page-customizations) Customize the page participants land on when they first open your booth.
* [**Picture Customizations**](https://docs.simplebooth.com/virtual-booth-setup/branding-and-customizations/picture-customizations) Add logos, graphics, and AI effects to give your photos a polished, on-brand look.
* [**Sharing Access with Participants**](https://docs.simplebooth.com/virtual-booth-setup/basic-setup/sharing-access-with-participants) Share your QR code or link and open the booth
  {% endcolumn %}
  {% endcolumns %}

***

### Shared Settings

These settings live in your account and apply to both HALO and Virtual Booth.

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><h4>AI Effects</h4><p>AI-powered photo effects and post-capture transformations.</p></td><td><a href="/spaces/93pOUl18YfTUEvwZ1pWw">/spaces/93pOUl18YfTUEvwZ1pWw</a></td></tr><tr><td><h4>Gallery</h4><p>Photos from your event are collected in a customizable online gallery.</p></td><td><a href="/spaces/gkBJjut3zmQfG3bS9iDb">/spaces/gkBJjut3zmQfG3bS9iDb</a></td></tr><tr><td><h4>Data &#x26; Analytics</h4><p>View participant counts, uploads, and other information for your events.</p></td><td><a href="/spaces/h7r3HaEn7hCAufF9Bg7E/pages/o30aeTsWvScjS7eofdJR">/spaces/h7r3HaEn7hCAufF9Bg7E/pages/o30aeTsWvScjS7eofdJR</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

### Popular Articles

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Free Trial</strong></td><td><a href="https://docs.simplebooth.com/billing/free-trial">https://docs.simplebooth.com/billing/free-trial</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Canceling your Subscription</strong></td><td><a href="/spaces/LkvZ188XzmWnTwSBKu9h/pages/XGdLmDDvQB1hTpPvaWCc">/spaces/LkvZ188XzmWnTwSBKu9h/pages/XGdLmDDvQB1hTpPvaWCc</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>HALO App Picture Design</strong></td><td><a href="/spaces/IOXh58rA9e8k30VLuWRu/pages/ebRit1yYSnlbShxVlhPb">/spaces/IOXh58rA9e8k30VLuWRu/pages/ebRit1yYSnlbShxVlhPb</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Virtual Booth Picture Design</strong></td><td><a href="/spaces/u3m7Zf8sqSSpQkFNQhjx">/spaces/u3m7Zf8sqSSpQkFNQhjx</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Equipment</strong></td><td><a href="/spaces/fSAAUT0iZ0MUayhFCvnB">/spaces/fSAAUT0iZ0MUayhFCvnB</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Downloading Event Photos</strong></td><td><a href="/spaces/wi7HZFHzZzKFm4Dd4Pxe/pages/ROtIgyJ7AN3DkOh37tss">/spaces/wi7HZFHzZzKFm4Dd4Pxe/pages/ROtIgyJ7AN3DkOh37tss</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

Need support for the Classic app? [Learn more here](https://help.simplebooth.com/en/collections/5626648-classic-ipad-app)


# Onboarding Hub

### Welcome to Simple Booth!&#x20;

This guide walks you through everything it takes to get your photo booth ready, from creating your account to running your event. Work through the five steps in order, or jump to whichever one you need.

{% hint style="info" %}
This guide covers **HALO**, our photo booth app for iPad. If you're using Virtual Booth, our browser-based booth that guests open from their own phones, see the [Virtual Booth guide](https://docs.simplebooth.com/virtual-booth-setup).
{% endhint %}

***

### The Five Steps

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### [**Set up your account**](/onboarding-guide/set-up-your-account)

Create your account and activate your software.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### [**Get your iPad ready**](/onboarding-guide/get-your-ipad-ready)

Choose a compatible iPad and prepare it for guests
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### [**Set up your hardware**](/onboarding-guide/set-up-your-hardware)

Assemble your kit, or set up your own iPad stand and lighting.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### [**Build your booth experience**](/onboarding-guide/build-your-booth-experience)

Create a preset, pair a gallery, and design your photos.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### [**Run your event**](/onboarding-guide/run-your-event)

Do your final checks, launch the booth, and wrap up.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

### More Help

* Browse our [docs](https://docs.simplebooth.com/) for step-by-step guides and answers to common questions.
* Running into trouble at your event? The [Quick Troubleshooting Guide](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/quick-troubleshooting-guide) covers the most common fixes.
* Still need a hand? [Reach out](mailto:support@simplebooth.com) to our team and we'll help you sort it out.


# Set Up Your Account

Your Simple Booth account is where you manage billing, configure your booth settings, and store your photos. This step covers creating that account and making sure your software is active.

***

### Create your Account

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Choose a plan

Compare features on the [plans](https://www.simplebooth.com/plans) page. Then choose the plan that fits your events.

After you verify your account, a [free trial](https://docs.simplebooth.com/billing/software/free-trial) starts automatically, so you can use the trial to explore each software plan's features in addition to the comparison chart on the plans page.&#x20;
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Create your account

Create and verify an account with your (or your team's) email address at <https://app.simplebooth.com/signup>

Your trial is active the moment you verify your account, so you can start building right away.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Start your subscription

The trial limits you to 15 photos per day, so before your first event you'll need to subscribe to a plan. When you're ready, start your subscription on your [billing page](https://www.simplebooth.com/billing/subscription).
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

### Already purchased your software?

If you bought your software through our sales team or as part of a HALO hardware order, you don't need to pay again. Your license isn't activated automatically, so once your account is created, reply to your payment confirmation email and our team will activate it for you.

{% hint style="info" %}
Not sure whether your subscription is active? Sign in and open your [billing page](https://www.simplebooth.com/billing/subscription). If you're asked to choose and pay for a plan, your subscription isn't active yet.
{% endhint %}


# Get Your iPad Ready

HALO runs on an iPad, so a compatible, well-prepared iPad is the heart of your booth. This step covers choosing the right one and getting it ready for guests.

***

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Choose a compatible iPad

**The HALO app requires an iPad running iPadOS 26.1 or later.**

{% hint style="info" %}
**For use with Simple Booth HALO:** Not every iPad works with our HALO equipment. Check for [compatible iPads](https://docs.simplebooth.com/hardware-and-gear/compatible-ipads/ipad-recommendations) before you buy.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Sign into an Apple account

Sign in to the iPad with an Apple Account. This lets you download HALO from the App Store and keep it updated.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Tip:** If your photo booth is being used by a team, create a dedicated Apple Account they can access. Share its password with the team.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Prepare the iPad for guests

Before your first event, prepare the iPad so guests can use the booth without interruption. Our guide to [preparing your iPad](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/preparing-for-events/prepare-your-ipad) walks you through all necessary setup steps.&#x20;

{% hint style="warning" %}
Set up and test Guided Access before event day. It's the setting that keeps guests from accidentally, or intentionally, leaving your booth mid-event.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}


# Set Up Your Hardware

Set up a stable iPad and effective lighting for great photos. This guide covers lighting options and Simple Booth HALO setup.

***

### Using Simple Booth HALO

Use the [online setup guide](https://www.simplebooth.com/start) to assemble your HALO Event Kit or Install Kit.&#x20;

***

### DIY Stand & Lighting

You can run the HALO app without Simple Booth hardware. For the best photos, we recommend a sturdy stand or tripod, and even, flattering light aimed toward your guests.

Our [photo booth lighting guide](https://www.simplebooth.com/blog/photo-booth-lighting-guide/) covers alternative lighting setups and equipment.


# Install Kit (Card Layout)

Card-formatted alternative to the Install Kit setup page, for team review. Matches the Event Kit card page, with each part and step shown as a card so the images sit side by side.

## What's in your box

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>HALO body</strong></td><td></td><td><a href="/files/OBNxayewkD8WPXuJJKEV">/files/OBNxayewkD8WPXuJJKEV</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Wall mount</strong></td><td><em>Cover: four.png</em></td><td><a href="/files/VP5gnTiuLTPFuCyEM2Ui">/files/VP5gnTiuLTPFuCyEM2Ui</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>6.5' power cord</strong></td><td><em>Cover: two.png</em></td><td><a href="/files/xqh8X9hCe70oD33RXnBD">/files/xqh8X9hCe70oD33RXnBD</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

You'll also need fasteners. Because we don't know your wall type, fasteners aren't included. Pick them up at most hardware stores using the guide below, and always follow the instructions that come with your fasteners.

| Surface | Into wood studs                                                                            | Into metal studs / anchors           |
| ------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------ |
| Drywall | #10 wood screws, 1¼" or longer                                                             | #10 toggle bolts, 1¼", rated 50+ lbs |
| Plaster | #10 wood screws, 2" or longer                                                              | #10 toggle bolts, 2", rated 50+ lbs  |
| Masonry | Any 3/16" x 1¼" masonry anchor, rated for hundreds of lbs. A hammer drill makes it easier. |                                      |

{% hint style="info" %}
Mounting to something else? Research your surface type and choose fasteners rated for 50+ lbs. When mounting to drywall or plaster, always find and use a stud, with anchors for the other half of the mount.
{% endhint %}

## Mount your HALO

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>1. Mark the location</strong></td><td>Use the wall mount plate to mark your fastener positions. We recommend about 5 feet (1.5 m) high.</td><td><a href="/files/cvMTQbaFL6XL8pBe2vKF">/files/cvMTQbaFL6XL8pBe2vKF</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>2. Secure the wall mount</strong></td><td>Hang the mount following your fasteners' instructions. Make sure it's fully tightened and secure.</td><td><a href="/files/8VE0Pf3fbu2KdNzdLN5u">/files/8VE0Pf3fbu2KdNzdLN5u</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>3. Insert the power cord</strong></td><td>The cord goes into the back of the HALO, so plug it in before mounting.</td><td><a href="/files/Sqwl6h3WcfgGM44ozaeD">/files/Sqwl6h3WcfgGM44ozaeD</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>4. Mount the HALO</strong></td><td>Guide the silver pin on the back of the HALO into the wall mount's receptacle until it's fully inserted. When seated correctly, the pin shouldn't be visible. Lock it in place using the wall mount's securing screw.</td><td><a href="/files/O1YaiZJyGxBErC20XDV8">/files/O1YaiZJyGxBErC20XDV8</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>5. Insert the iPad</strong></td><td>Pull the faceplate off using the side tabs near the top, then secure the iPad with the interior swivel tabs.</td><td><a href="/files/9hKLhP70rfxxvOhCpaPH">/files/9hKLhP70rfxxvOhCpaPH</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>6. Plug in the iPad and replace the faceplate</strong></td><td>Hold the bottom of the iPad near the base of the HALO body to avoid straining the cable, then press the faceplate back onto the magnets.</td><td><a href="/files/5Mjmz7PLBco2WrpzIgBL">/files/5Mjmz7PLBco2WrpzIgBL</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>7. Power on</strong></td><td>Plug the power cord into the wall and flip the bottom-back switch to power on.</td><td><a href="/files/iknuG2SlVQaOFPmvux6C">/files/iknuG2SlVQaOFPmvux6C</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>8. Adjust lighting and exposure</strong></td><td>Set HALO's brightness with the side knob. Fine-tune exposure and other camera settings in the app's Mission Control. Adjust brightness and camera settings together for the best result.</td><td><a href="/files/ehFJb78OS5YRwoXnwiyZ">/files/ehFJb78OS5YRwoXnwiyZ</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# Event Kit

Your HALO Event Kit travels in a custom case with a portable stand. This guide walks you through what's in the case and how to assemble your HALO so it's ready to capture. When your event wraps, see Repacking your case at the end.

## What's in your case

The travel case is custom-cut to hold each part snugly. Here's what you'll find, top to bottom.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### HALO body

At the top of the case. Set it somewhere safe.

<figure><img src="/files/yG5aNimeXfpH7sDnKyqI" alt="" width="167"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Stand legs

Just below the body.

<figure><img src="/files/wJJOyrghrMX5hq2CT8lN" alt="" width="341"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Stand riser

At the bottom of the case.

<figure><img src="/files/tefCDS0RNhXuvTJvfrzj" alt="" width="36"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### HALO pin and stand pin

The HALO pin (small knob side) and stand pin (big knob side), plus the charger. The clamp and charger are in the side compartments.

<figure><img src="/files/tsNTNsT3qYB6KR2uS4tn" alt="" width="263"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Assemble your HALO

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Release the legs

Pull up on the ring marked in green on the base.

<figure><img src="/files/SUrgX3lAziWAc7p2njuQ" alt="" width="269"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Rotate the legs into position

Tilt or pull each leg out. Each one stops automatically when it reaches the right spot.

<figure><img src="/files/N21pFsaIxDhTjUTcepHs" alt="" width="272"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Lock the legs

Release the lock so its grooves sit flush with the base.

<figure><img src="/files/ihUkAHhYKB8M3OTgEmAa" alt="" width="294"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Add the riser

Place the riser in the base and secure it with the bottom knob.

<figure><img src="/files/5tLgNNZCuCKOdQ1EQCr0" alt="" width="164"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Raise the stand

Extend it and tighten the knobs. We recommend about 5 feet (1.5 m) off the ground.

<figure><img src="/files/tWdZzIx7Z53SBPbsSZ6F" alt="" width="186"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Attach the clamp

The larger side (with the bigger handle) attaches to the top of the stand. Position the smaller side so the round receptacle is horizontal, not vertical.

<figure><img src="/files/L0u5edsa7q24v4dCfCA0" alt="" width="187"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Attach the HALO

Insert the back pin into the round receptacle until the HALO is flush with the clamp. When it's seated correctly, the silver pin shouldn't be visible. Tighten the small handle, and loosen it slightly anytime to adjust the angle.

<figure><img src="/files/heBi9e80Hrx93HxnkLRo" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Insert the iPad

Pull the faceplate off using the side tabs near the top, then secure the iPad with the interior swivel tabs.

<figure><img src="/files/q3mLdNbE87eCNfJrwxCc" alt="" width="283"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Plug in the iPad and replace the faceplate

Hold the bottom of the iPad near the base of the HALO body to avoid straining the cable, then press the faceplate back onto the magnets.

<figure><img src="/files/2Qw0e0x4511AfF2sTrbB" alt="" width="222"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Power on

Insert the power cord into the bottom-back of the HALO body and flip the switch beside it. The light turns on and the iPad starts charging.

<figure><img src="/files/s8kxb0CByCWtG9yiOWZe" alt="" width="247"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Adjust lighting and exposure

Set HALO's brightness with the side knob. Fine-tune exposure and other camera settings in the app's Mission Control. Adjust brightness and camera settings together for the best result.

<figure><img src="/files/QRzSqBO6LyPFf9XeZGJx" alt="" width="347"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

## Repacking your case

{% hint style="info" %}
**Keep the iPad in the faceplate.** Leaving the iPad secured in the faceplate is a safe, protected way to transport it.
{% endhint %}

The foam is cut to hold everything securely in transit, so pack in this order.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Remove the top foam inserts

They cradle the HALO.

<figure><img src="/files/zq3hoSSMEpvlqSLkK8Nn" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Collapse and insert the stand

There's a pocket cut out for the knobs.

<figure><img src="/files/ivBLInS81zoFPDPEueLq" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Collapse and insert the legs

You may need to flip or rotate them to fit.

<figure><img src="/files/ZyTBgWAv3mct1QE6Q3yY" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Replace the top foam, then set the HALO on top

There's a hole cut out for the silver pin on the back.

<figure><img src="/files/g1kN9rXq86ZjVM5mjAlQ" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}


# Install Kit

Your HALO Install Kit mounts to a wall for a permanent spot. This guide covers what's in the box, choosing fasteners, and mounting your HALO.

## What's in your box

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### HALO body

**Image placeholder:** `IK-1.svg` — HALO body (same file as EK-1)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Wall mount

**Image placeholder:** `IK-2.svg` — wall mount plate
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### 6.5' power cord

**Image placeholder:** `IK-3.svg` — 6.5 foot power cord
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

You'll also need fasteners. Because we don't know your wall type, fasteners aren't included. Pick them up at most hardware stores using the guide below, and always follow the instructions that come with your fasteners.

| Surface | Into wood studs                                                                            | Into metal studs / anchors           |
| ------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------ |
| Drywall | #10 wood screws, 1¼" or longer                                                             | #10 toggle bolts, 1¼", rated 50+ lbs |
| Plaster | #10 wood screws, 2" or longer                                                              | #10 toggle bolts, 2", rated 50+ lbs  |
| Masonry | Any 3/16" x 1¼" masonry anchor, rated for hundreds of lbs. A hammer drill makes it easier. |                                      |

{% hint style="info" %}
Mounting to something else? Research your surface type and choose fasteners rated for 50+ lbs. When mounting to drywall or plaster, always find and use a stud, with anchors for the other half of the mount.
{% endhint %}

## Mount your HALO

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Mark the location

Use the wall mount plate to mark your fastener positions. We recommend about 5 feet (1.5 m) high.

**Image placeholder:** `IK-4.svg`
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Secure the wall mount

Hang the mount following your fasteners' instructions. Make sure it's fully tightened and secure.

**Image placeholder:** `IK-5.svg`
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Insert the power cord

The cord goes into the back of the HALO, so plug it in before mounting.

**Image placeholder:** `IK-6.svg`
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Mount the HALO

Guide the silver pin on the back of the HALO into the wall mount's receptacle until it's fully inserted. When seated correctly, the pin shouldn't be visible. Lock it in place using the wall mount's securing screw.

**Image placeholder:** `IK-7.svg`
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Insert the iPad

Pull the faceplate off using the side tabs near the top, then secure the iPad with the interior swivel tabs.

**Image placeholder:** `IK-8.svg` (shared with EK-12)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Plug in the iPad and replace the faceplate

Hold the bottom of the iPad near the base of the HALO body to avoid straining the cable, then press the faceplate back onto the magnets.

**Image placeholder:** `IK-9.svg` (shared with EK-13)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Power on

Plug the power cord into the wall and flip the bottom-back switch to power on.

**Image placeholder:** `IK-10.svg`
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Adjust lighting and exposure

Set HALO's brightness with the side knob. Fine-tune exposure and other camera settings in the app's Mission Control. Adjust brightness and camera settings together for the best result.

**Image placeholder:** `IK-11.svg` (shared with EK-15)
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}


# Event Kit (Card Layout)

Card-formatted alternative to the Event Kit setup page, for team review. Same two sections as the stepper version, with each part and step shown as a card so the images sit side by side.

## What's in your case

The travel case is custom-cut to hold each part snugly. Here's what you'll find, top to bottom.

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>HALO body</strong></td><td>At the top of the case. Set it somewhere safe.</td><td><a href="/files/CuLRScd1bYlFYrwG5uYl">/files/CuLRScd1bYlFYrwG5uYl</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Stand legs</strong></td><td>Just below the body.</td><td><a href="/files/d34XG3065F4rvH1WEsop">/files/d34XG3065F4rvH1WEsop</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Stand riser</strong></td><td>At the bottom of the case.</td><td><a href="/files/mlwRyEcqfhxvVfBEhckf">/files/mlwRyEcqfhxvVfBEhckf</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>HALO pin and stand pin</strong></td><td>The HALO pin (small knob side) and stand pin (big knob side), plus the charger.<br>The clamp and charger are in the side compartments.</td><td><a href="/files/9lo8ssQNG1zUxUcYdfTU">/files/9lo8ssQNG1zUxUcYdfTU</a></td></tr></tbody></table>

***

## Assemble your HALO

<table data-card-size="large" data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="image">Cover image</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>1. Release the legs</strong></td><td>Pull up on the ring marked in green on the base.</td><td><a href="/files/ooUDSkVBNhk0emkpaNLL">/files/ooUDSkVBNhk0emkpaNLL</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>2. Rotate the legs into position</strong></td><td>Tilt or pull each leg out. Each one stops automatically when it reaches the right spot.</td><td><a href="/files/xeatWlgcvKQNkEuODwMG">/files/xeatWlgcvKQNkEuODwMG</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>3. Lock the legs</strong></td><td>Release the lock so its grooves sit flush with the base.</td><td><a href="/files/ctLLHc0YqLSjJIXVI3a9">/files/ctLLHc0YqLSjJIXVI3a9</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>4. Add the riser</strong></td><td>Place the riser in the base and secure it with the bottom knob.</td><td><a href="/files/DMiNd6hKGINjnjiOhs0b">/files/DMiNd6hKGINjnjiOhs0b</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>5. Raise the stand</strong></td><td>Extend it and tighten the knobs. We recommend about 5 feet (1.5 m) off the ground.</td><td><a href="/files/pM0LeyuFHcKgqRe7nLt1">/files/pM0LeyuFHcKgqRe7nLt1</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>6. Attach the clamp</strong></td><td>The larger side (with the bigger handle) attaches to the top of the stand. Position the smaller side so the round receptacle is horizontal, not vertical.</td><td><a href="/files/WjhGmAR9P2QH9RBOiFRD">/files/WjhGmAR9P2QH9RBOiFRD</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>7. Attach the HALO</strong></td><td>Insert the back pin into the round receptacle until the HALO is flush with the clamp. When it's seated correctly, the silver pin shouldn't be visible. Tighten the small handle, and loosen it slightly anytime to adjust the angle.</td><td><a href="/files/SUmYfpPE8NLp3oR6GgKu">/files/SUmYfpPE8NLp3oR6GgKu</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>8. Insert the iPad</strong></td><td>Pull the faceplate off using the side tabs near the top, then secure the iPad with the interior swivel tabs.</td><td><a href="/files/DosXyId7DrBaEto29dHV">/files/DosXyId7DrBaEto29dHV</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>9. Plug in the iPad and replace the faceplate</strong></td><td>Hold the bottom of the iPad near the base of the HALO body to avoid straining the cable, then press the faceplate back onto the magnets.</td><td><a href="/files/kDrqtFXYcdRmppReNKDG">/files/kDrqtFXYcdRmppReNKDG</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>10. Power on</strong></td><td>Insert the power cord into the bottom-back of the HALO body and flip the switch beside it. The light turns on and the iPad starts charging.</td><td><a href="/files/XEW3tiwEejNnsycM6wMw">/files/XEW3tiwEejNnsycM6wMw</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>11. Adjust lighting and exposure</strong></td><td>Set HALO's brightness with the side knob. Fine-tune exposure and other camera settings in the app's Mission Control. Adjust brightness and camera settings together for the best result.</td><td><a href="/files/fjhHaruJuU5TtlbEVav8">/files/fjhHaruJuU5TtlbEVav8</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


# Build Your Booth Experience

Now for the fun part: designing what your guests see and do! This step covers customizing everything from the photo appearance to how to navigate your settings.

***

### Where to Customize

Event settings can be edited from two different locations:

* In your online [dashboard](https://app.simplebooth.com/) on any computer.
* In the HALO app on your iPad.

Your changes sync between the two, so you can start on your computer and fine-tune or make last-minute changes on the iPad.

***

### Create a Preset and Pair a Gallery

Every photo your booth captures is created using a **preset** and sent to a connected **gallery**. These two pieces work together, but they serve different roles.

1. [Create a preset](https://docs.simplebooth.com/customization-guide/basic-setup/create-a-preset): Presets control the booth-side experience, including photo appearance, editing tools available to participants, and things like data capture (Pro & Select plans only).
2. [Pair a gallery](https://docs.simplebooth.com/customization-guide/basic-setup/pair-a-gallery): your gallery stores your event photos and lets guests save and share their photos on social media. is the online collection where your event photos are saved, and where guests can share to social media.

{% hint style="info" %}
In most circumstances, you will want to set up a brand new preset & gallery for each of your events or activations. [Learn more](https://docs.simplebooth.com/customization-guide/basic-setup/create-a-preset/create-a-new-preset).
{% endhint %}

***

### Customize the Look and Experience

* Use the [layout designer](https://docs.simplebooth.com/customization-guide/layout-designer) to design how your photos will look.
* Use the [experience designer](https://docs.simplebooth.com/customization-guide/experience-designer) to set up what guests see before, during, and after capturing their photo, including start screens, capture settings, effects, and sharing.
* Use the [gallery designer](https://docs.simplebooth.com/gallery-design) to customize the online gallery's privacy, appearance, and the Live Feed slideshow tool.&#x20;


# Run Your Event

You've built your booth, so now let's get it running smoothly on event day. This step covers your final checks, launching the booth, and wrapping up afterward.

***

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Before your event

* Run through the [pre-event checklist](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/preparing-for-events/pre-event-checklist) to confirm your iPad, app, and settings are ready and to avoid unexpected problems.
* At the venue, double-check your [camera settings](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/preparing-for-events/camera-and-screen-settings) so every photo looks its best.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Launch your booth

When you're ready, [launch your booth](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/preparing-for-events/launching-your-booth) to put it into Booth Mode, and enable Guided Access.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### During and after your event

* If your iPad loses internet, photos wait safely in the [offline upload queue](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/offline-upload-queue) and send once you're back online. Check it before you tear down.
* If problems arise, check the [quick troubleshooting guide](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/quick-troubleshooting-guide) for help with common issues.
* When the event's over, the [post-event checklist](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/after-events/post-event-checklist) helps you wrap up and download photos from your account.&#x20;
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}


# Simple Booth HALO®

Industry-leading photo booth hardware

The Simple Booth HALO® is a professional-grade iPad photo booth system engineered for durability and high-quality results. It combines studio lighting with a rugged design, making it an ideal solution for both mobile event pros and permanent installations.

***

#### HALO Kits

Depending on your use case, HALO is available in two primary configurations:

* **Event Kit**: Designed for portability and frequent travel. Includes the HALO ring light, a collapsible stand, an iPad holder, and a heavy-duty wheeled carrying case.
* **Install Kit**: Designed for permanent placements in high-traffic venues. Includes the HALO ring light and a wall-mount component for a secure, space-saving setup.

<a href="https://www.simplebooth.com/products/halo" class="button primary">HALO Products & Pricing</a>

***

#### Hardware Features

HALO is built to provide a professional presence while remaining simple to operate:

* **Studio-Quality Lighting**: The integrated LED ring light provides up to 2,100 lumens of brightness. You can manually adjust the light intensity using the brightness knob on the back of the unit.
* **Tool-less Setup**: The faceplate features a tool-less removal design, allowing your iPad to snap securely into place in seconds.
* **Versatile Orientation**: The head unit can be rotated, allowing you to run your booth in either Portrait or Landscape mode.
* **Premium Build**: Engineered for longevity from solid aluminum with a durable anodized finish, HALO is designed to withstand the wear and tear of constant transport and busy events.


# HALO Setup Guides

Assembling your Event or Install Kit

#### Visual Guide

Find a guide with visual assembly instructions [here](https://www.simplebooth.com/start).

***

#### Video Guide

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/JO7zyNHoVIU?si=-qeayYRNZ77rF4dT>" %}
Event Kit Setup
{% endembed %}


# Powering HALO

HALO is built with a three‑prong US plug (Type B). It must be plugged in in order to use and does not have a built in battery.&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}
If you use HALO permanently outside the US, a compact regional adapter or a certified universal adapter ensures safe and reliable use.
{% endhint %}

***

## Battery Recommendations

If you won't have a normal power source, HALO can run off a power station. We recommend Chargetech.

{% columns %}
{% column %}

<p align="center"><a href="https://chargetech.com/products/premium-54k-dual-ac-battery-pack?variant=44760249237826">Chargetech 954 250W Power Station</a></p>

Provides 6+ hours of battery life with HALO.\
\
*Not allowed in TSA carry-on luggage.*
{% endcolumn %}

{% column %}

<p align="center"><a href="https://chargetech.com/products/premium-27k-ac-battery-pack?variant=44760526389570">Chargetech 927 90W Power Station</a></p>

Provides 3+ hours of battery life with HALO.\
\
*Allowed in TSA carry-on luggage.*
{% endcolumn %}
{% endcolumns %}

***

## Travel Outside the US <a href="#h_c2cbfcb24c" id="h_c2cbfcb24c"></a>

If you live in the US and plan to travel with HALO, a universal adapter is the most convenient option, as it works in multiple countries.

**Popular options include:**

{% columns %}
{% column %}

<p align="center"><a href="https://www.epickatech.com/products/ta-105-universal-travel-adapter">EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter</a></p>

Covers 150+ countries, supports multiple plug types, and includes USB ports.
{% endcolumn %}

{% column %}

<p align="center"><a href="https://www.ceptics.com/products/70w-universal-travel-adapter-2-usb-c-1-gan-3-0-retractable-cable-usb-c-1-usb-c-up-70wc-wh">Ceptics Universal Travel Adapter</a> </p>

Compact, reliable, and compatible with most global plug types.
{% endcolumn %}
{% endcolumns %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Look for a universal travel adapter with built‑in safety features and USB ports for added convenience.
{% endhint %}


# Simple Care Protection Plan

Information about our extended care plan

{% hint style="info" %}
This information applies to Simple Care plans purchased after September 6, 2024. For plans purchased before this date, contact <support@simplebooth.com> for coverage details.
{% endhint %}

***

## Benefits & Coverage <a href="#h_0bb9047c71" id="h_0bb9047c71"></a>

The Simple Care Protection Plan can be added to your HALO kit purchase for $299. It provides two years of coverage, including

{% tabs fullWidth="true" %}
{% tab title="Extended warranty" %}
Covers product defects beyond the [standard warranty](https://buy.simplebooth.com/cdn/shop/t/17/assets/Limited%20Warranty.pdf?v=46033368239152097191620831325), for 2 years.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Damage protection" %}
Up to two repair incidents during the two-year period are covered. Ground shipping within the U.S. for repairs is complimentary.&#x20;

Expedited shipping is available for the additional cost difference. Coverage includes:

* Accidental damage (e.g., drops or falls).
* Normal wear and tear
* Product defects

{% hint style="info" %}
The most frequent repair is ring light damage, typically costing around $325 plus shipping. Under Simple Care, this would count as one incident and the repair cost is fully covered.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Discounted parts" %}
Get a 50% discount on replacement parts and faceplate upgrades during the coverage period.

Common parts include:

* iPad faceplate
* Power cord
* Grip head

{% hint style="info" %}
Upgrading your iPad and faceplate ensures your HALO stays compatible with the latest features and technology.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

#### Not covered:

* iPads. Consider [AppleCare+](https://www.apple.com/applecare/?filter=watch) for additional protection.
* Natural disasters and theft. These are typically handled by business insurance.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Simple Care must be purchased at the time you buy your new HALO.
{% endhint %}

***

### Repair Process <a href="#h_40e7e445fe" id="h_40e7e445fe"></a>

If your HALO hardware requires service, follow these steps to get your unit to our service center. We provide support 7 days a week and typically respond within one business day.

1. **Submit a Request**: Email <support@simplebooth.com> with any questions, or [complete the repair form](https://forms.gle/QcDqYamWPzR1oNFm7) directly with details about the damage and your event timeline.
2. **Review**: We will review your submission and follow up with any clarifying questions.
3. **Invoice & Shipping**: Pay the repair invoice to receive your prepaid shipping label via email.
4. **Ship your HALO**: Securely pack your unit and ship it to our service center using the provided label.
5. **Service**: Average turnaround is 1–2 weeks. This includes a full inspection by our hardware team to ensure everything is functioning perfectly.
6. **Return**: Your repaired HALO will be shipped back to you. We will provide tracking information so you can monitor its arrival.

{% hint style="info" %}
While we monitor requests 7 days a week, please allow for additional response time during holidays or high-volume periods.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

***

## Cost Savings with Simple Care <a href="#h_6a9ab1aea0" id="h_6a9ab1aea0"></a>

Common repair or replacement costs.&#x20;

|                         |     With Simple Care     | Without Simple Care |
| :---------------------: | :----------------------: | :-----------------: |
|    Broken Ring Light    | $0 (up to two incidents) |         $325        |
|    Faceplate Upgrade    |          $87.50          |         $175        |
| DIY Charger Replacement |            $15           |         $30         |


# Ordering HALO

Important information about placing orders with us

<p align="center"><a href="https://buy.simplebooth.com/" class="button primary">Buy HALO</a></p>

***

#### Payment <a href="#h_9be0636f00" id="h_9be0636f00"></a>

Simple Booth accepts payment by credit card, ACH, or check. PayPal, Google Pay, and Venmo are also supported.

ShopPay is available for U.S. customers.

{% hint style="info" %}
For purchase orders or vendor setup, email <halo@simplebooth.com> for assistance.
{% endhint %}

***

#### Transit Time <a href="#h_b74a9c5c84" id="h_b74a9c5c84"></a>

Orders typically ship within 1–2 business days after payment or receipt of a purchase order. Transit time depends on the selected shipping speed, and tracking will be provided once your order is dispatched.

***

#### iPad Compatibility <a href="#h_513b495486" id="h_513b495486"></a>

HALO kits are not compatible with all iPad models.

{% hint style="info" %}
If using your own iPad, check [device compatibility](https://help.simplebooth.com/en/articles/446434-halo-hardware-compatible-ipads) before purchasing.
{% endhint %}

***

#### International Orders <a href="#h_31723f72b0" id="h_31723f72b0"></a>

International shipments may incur additional taxes or duties during customs clearance. You are responsible for all customs fees, import duties, and taxes, including VAT.\
\
Contact us at <halo@simplebooth.com> with your shipping address for a personalized estimate.

***

#### Activating iPad Software <a href="#h_7b333f76ac" id="h_7b333f76ac"></a>

If your order includes software, your license will not automatically activate on your Simple Booth account.

{% hint style="warning" %}
After you sign up and verify your account, our team will add your software license. Please do not submit a second software payment!
{% endhint %}

***

#### Returns <a href="#h_50c93d39f8" id="h_50c93d39f8"></a>

We accept returns, exchanges, and repairs for damaged or defective hardware within 30 days of purchase (some exceptions apply).

Review our [refund policy](https://www.simplebooth.com/policies/refund-policy) for complete details.


# Rentals

Simple Booth is not offering rentals for one-time event needs at this time

We do not offer rentals at this time. Find alternative options here.&#x20;

***

#### DIY It <a href="#h_f6fedfe1d4" id="h_f6fedfe1d4"></a>

Create your own setup using our [DIY guide](https://www.simplebooth.com/blog/best-diy-photo-booths/). The recommended hardware costs about $150, and you can use it with any of our software plans.

\
See software plan details and pricing [here](https://www.simplebooth.com/plans).

***

#### Find a Local Rental <a href="#h_3d59ae620a" id="h_3d59ae620a"></a>

Search for a local photo booth service that uses Simple Booth products.

\
Local companies may not list the software they use. Contact them directly to confirm.

***

#### Purchase a Booth <a href="#h_6873e65ac4" id="h_6873e65ac4"></a>

For events lasting more than a day or recurring activations, [purchasing an Event Kit](https://buy.simplebooth.com/) is often more cost-effective than repeated rentals.

Our software is subscription-based, but you can cancel unneeded renewals anytime.


# Compatible iPads

HALO is designed with a removable faceplate that securely holds your iPad while allowing for easy removal when needed.

This faceplate is only compatible with specific iPad models.

***

### Current Compatible Models <a href="#h_15d298949a" id="h_15d298949a"></a>

The faceplates we currently stock fit the following iPads:

* iPad Air 11" (M4)
* iPad Air 11" (M3)
* iPad Air 11" (M2)
* iPad Pro 11" – 4th Gen
* iPad Pro 11" – 3rd Gen
* iPad Pro 11" – 2nd Gen
* iPad Pro 11" – 1st Gen
* iPad Air 10.9" – 5th Gen
* iPad Air 10.9" – 4th Gen

<p align="center"><a href="https://buy.simplebooth.com/" class="button primary">Visit Store</a></p>

***

### For Current HALO Owners <a href="#h_5da5c8367b" id="h_5da5c8367b"></a>

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Replacing Your iPad with the Same Model" %}

* HALOs purchased *after* February 2023:\
  The models listed above are compatible with your setup.
* HALOs purchased *before* February 2023:\
  Compatibility will vary. Please [contact our team](mailto:support@simplebooth.com) to confirm which iPads will work with your version of HALO.

📍 *Note: The latest versions of the app require iOS 17 or later. If your current iPad doesn't support iOS 17, we recommend upgrading to a newer model from the list above.*
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Upgrading to a New iPad Model" %}
If you want to switch to a newer iPad model and your HALO was purchased before February 2023:

* You can purchase a new faceplate that works with your upgraded iPad.
* If your old iPad used a Lightning connector, you’ll also need to upgrade to a USB-C charging cable for compatibility.
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

***

[Contact our team](mailto:support@simplebooth.com) for more information, to confirm compatibility with your setup, or place an order.


# DIY Lighting

#### Why Lighting Matters

Many people assume that camera quality is the biggest factor in getting great photos, but lighting actually has a much bigger impact.

Even the best camera can’t compensate for poor lighting. Without proper light, your photos may turn out dull, grainy, or uneven — regardless of your camera.&#x20;

If [HALO](/hardware-and-gear) is not a practical option for you, find affordable recommendations for lighting setups in our [DIY guide](https://www.simplebooth.com/blog/best-diy-photo-booths/) and dramatically improve your photo quality.


# Lighting Best Practices

Good lighting is the single biggest factor in photo quality — even more than camera resolution. These tips apply whether you're using [HALO](/hardware-and-gear) or a [DIY lighting setup](/hardware-and-gear/lighting/diy-lighting).

***

### Universal Tips

These apply no matter what lighting setup you're using.

#### Frame Your Shot

Launch into test mode and use the live preview to dial in your frame before guests arrive.

* If you're using a **backdrop**, adjust the distance, height, and placement of your booth until the backdrop fully fills the frame with no gaps or edges showing.
* If you're **not using a backdrop**, make sure your background suits your photo design — the event itself, a solid or patterned wall, a natural setting, or another creative option.

#### Angle for Flattery

In general, angling your booth camera **slightly downward** produces more flattering results for your subjects.

#### Take a Test Shot

Before the event starts, take a test picture and review it critically.

**Manage Shadows**

* Position lights to minimize harsh shadows on the backdrop or on subjects' faces.
* If using a backdrop, secure it with clamps to keep it smooth — folds and creases create distracting shadows.

**Balance Exposure**

* Adjust your light brightness together with the app's camera exposure setting.
* Avoid over-exposure, which can cause a "glow" or "bleed" effect around the edges of subjects — especially important if you're using Background Replacement.


# iPad Minimum Requirements

### iOS Requirements <a href="#h_2bef222bce" id="h_2bef222bce"></a>

Our apps work on devices running Apple's iOS. This includes iPads but not iPhones or computers.

The current version of our app requires you to be updated to iOS version 26.


# iPad Recommendations

Choosing the right iPad is essential for a smooth event experience. While Simple Booth is designed to be efficient, certain hardware specifications will provide better performance and photo quality.

***

#### WiFi vs. Cellular

We recommend an iPad with Wi-Fi only.

While Simple Booth apps work perfectly with cellular-enabled iPads, the Wi-Fi only version is often more practical and cost-effective. If you are managing multiple units or need to print, it is generally more reliable to run your event over a local Wi-Fi network or a dedicated mobile hotspot rather than relying on individual cellular chips.

***

#### iPad Storage Capacity

For most users, 16GB of disk space is sufficient. Because Simple Booth syncs photos to your online [galleries](/customization-guide/basic-setup/pair-a-gallery), local storage needs are minimal.

However, you should consider a model with more storage if you plan to take a high volume of photos and want to save them directly to the iPad.&#x20;

***

#### Camera Quality

Using a newer iPad with an improved front-facing camera will result in higher-quality photos. You can compare the front-facing camera specifications for all current models on [Apple’s website](http://www.apple.com/ipad/compare/).

Keep in mind that while the camera sensor is important, [lighting](/hardware-and-gear) often plays a bigger role in final image quality than the camera hardware itself.

***

#### HALO Hardware Compatibility

If you are using or considering Simple Booth HALO hardware, your choice of iPad is restricted by the physical dimensions of the [device](https://app.simplebooth.com/devices).

You must use a specific 11" iPad Pro model to ensure a proper fit within the HALO enclosure. Always verify your iPad's generation and dimensions before purchasing to ensure it is compatible with your hardware.


# Android Support

Support for Android is not available at this time. We hope to introduce a version for Android in the future.&#x20;


# Equipment & Settings

Gear list and adjustments for camera settings

Integrating a DSLR allows you to capture high-quality images while utilizing the HALO app for sharing and gallery management.

Learn which camera models are compatible with the HALO app and the specific gear you will need to connect your DSLR for professional-grade event photography.

***

### Supported Camera Brands

We are actively expanding our hardware integrations to support a wider range of professional cameras.

* [**Canon**](/hardware-and-gear/dslr/canon-cameras): Currently supported.
* [**Sony**](/hardware-and-gear/dslr/sony-cameras): Currently supported.
* **Nikon**: Support will be addressed following the Sony integration.

Find more information regarding specific compatible camera models and the required connection gear (such as cables and adapters) in your DSLR's brand's section of our documentation.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

:white\_check\_mark: Core, Plus, Pro, Select

:x: Lite
{% endhint %}


# Canon Cameras

#### Compatible Cameras <a href="#compatible-cameras" id="compatible-cameras"></a>

* Canon R50
* Canon R100
* Canon R6 Mark I
* Canon R6 Mark II
* Canon R7 Mark II

We expect most Canon EOS models made in the last 10 years to be compatible. If you test a camera that is not listed, please write in to let us know your results. Support for Sony cameras is coming in early 2026.

***

#### Accessories <a href="#accessories" id="accessories"></a>

* Dummy camera battery with power adapter
* Memory card
* USB hub with USB Power Delivery (PD) capability
* Power supply (65W or higher) with USB-C to USB-C cable
  * Powers the iPad through the USB hub
* USB-C to USB-A cable
  * Connects the camera to the USB hub
* iPad running the HALO app
* Find stand and lighting recommendations [in our blog](https://www.simplebooth.com/blog/best-diy-photo-booths/)​

If your iPad has a Lightning port instead of USB-C (e.g. iPad 9th Gen), you will need a [Lighting to USB 3 adapter](https://www.apple.com/shop/product/mx5j3am/a/lightning-to-usb-3-camera-adapter) to connect a wired DSLR.

***

#### Recommended Camera Settings <a href="#recommended-camera-settings" id="recommended-camera-settings"></a>

Refer to your camera’s manual if you need more guidance on adjusting camera settings.

| **Image Quality**            | JPEG M or S                                                                                                                    |
| ---------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| **Movie Quality**            | Full HD 29.97P or 25P                                                                                                          |
| **Drive Mode**               | Single                                                                                                                         |
| **Subject Detection**        | People                                                                                                                         |
| **Supported Exposure Modes** | <ul><li>Auto (A)</li><li>Program (P)</li><li>Aperture Priority (Av)</li><li>Shutter Priority (Tv)</li><li>Manual (M)</li></ul> |


# Connection Steps

How to connect to and use your DSLR camera.

When a DSLR is connected, HALO uses it to capture photos and videos instead of the iPad’s built-in camera.

### Steps To Connect <a href="#steps-to-connect" id="steps-to-connect"></a>

1. Plug the USB hub into the iPad.
2. Connect power to the pass-through port on the USB hub. The iPad should indicate it is charging.
3. Connect the camera to the USB hub using a USB cable.
4. Insert the dummy battery into the camera and connect it to power.
5. Insert a memory card into the camera.
6. Launch the HALO app to PreFlight Check. The camera will appear as a card in the Devices section.

#### Confirm a Successful Connection <a href="#confirm-a-successful-connection" id="confirm-a-successful-connection"></a>

After connecting to your camera, HALO automatically checks whether it’s ready to use. Within the PreFlight Check, the camera status indicator shows one of the following:

{% columns %}
{% column %}

* **Green checkmark**: Camera is ready to use.
* **Blue info icon**: Camera is ready to use, but some settings could be improved.
* **Orange exclamation mark**: Camera is ready to use, but certain settings need your attention.
* **Red exclamation mark**: Camera has incompatible settings. HALO will fall back to the iPad camera.
  {% endcolumn %}

{% column valign="middle" %}

<div data-with-frame="true"><figure><img src="/files/sp319D1k3aumShl9Hh3J" alt=""><figcaption><p>Successful connection to a Canon R50</p></figcaption></figure></div>
{% endcolumn %}
{% endcolumns %}

***

### **Resolving Incompatible DSLR Settings** <a href="#resolving-incompatible-dslr-settings" id="resolving-incompatible-dslr-settings"></a>

If HALO indicates that some settings are not optimal or incompatible, tap the camera card to open the Camera Manager. The Camera Manager provides an overview of your camera status and lists any warnings, along with steps to resolve them.

#### Example <a href="#example" id="example"></a>

{% columns %}
{% column valign="middle" %}

<figure><img src="/files/1QszIABUAlHTpzkWTQMB" alt=""><figcaption><p>Here, the camera is set to capture photos in RAW format only. Because HALO requires photos in JPEG format, an incompatibility message appears.</p></figcaption></figure>
{% endcolumn %}

{% column valign="middle" %}

<figure><img src="/files/akSRe25SDhNnG1zAraRV" alt=""><figcaption><p>After adjusting the capture format on your camera, tap “Use this camera” to activate it.</p></figcaption></figure>
{% endcolumn %}
{% endcolumns %}

***

### Using Your DSLR <a href="#using-your-dslr" id="using-your-dslr"></a>

Launch your preset to Test or Booth Mode, and HALO will automatically connect to your DSLR. If the DSLR’s settings become incompatible at any point, HALO will automatically fall back to the iPad camera to ensure participants can continue to use the booth. See the [troubleshooting page](/hardware-and-gear/dslr/canon-cameras/troubleshooting) for help resolving incompatible DSLR settings.

{% hint style="info" %}

## Important Information

**Memory and Storage Management**

The memory card is used only for temporary storage. When a photo or video is captured, it is first saved to the camera’s memory card, then downloaded by the HALO app. Once downloaded, HALO automatically deletes the file from the camera to prevent the card from filling up.

​**Heat Management**

For best performance, use the camera in a well-ventilated area and avoid direct sunlight.

While connected, the HALO app monitors camera temperature. If it reaches a critical level, HALO will automatically switch to the iPad camera to prevent overheating. After the camera cools down, you can reconnect it through the Camera Manager, which can be found in [Mission Control](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/monitor-booth-status).
{% endhint %}


# Troubleshooting

Help fixing common problems.

<details>

<summary><strong>Exposure Differences Between Photos and Videos</strong></summary>

*Applies to Canon EOS R100, EOS R50, EOS R10, and all Canon cameras with no dedicated photo/movie mode selector switch.*

If your preset includes both photo and video capture, make sure the same exposure mode is used in both.

1. Turn on the camera.
2. Switch to Movie Mode using the dial.
3. In the top-left corner, set the exposure mode to “Movie (P).”
4. Turn the dial back to “P.”

<div data-with-frame="true"><figure><img src="/files/ONaRyVwik80FJgyyAjXR" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Flash Not Firing for Every Frame in Live GIFs</strong></summary>

After firing, flashes require a short recovery time before they can fire again.

Recovery time varies by model. For Live GIFs, choose a flash with a recovery time faster than 0.2 seconds.

To improve consistency, switch your flash to manual mode and start with a lower flash output.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Preview Image Oriented Incorrectly</strong></summary>

*Applies to Canon EOS R100 and some older Canon DSLRs.*

Some cameras lack an orientation sensor, meaning they can’t detect vertical or horizontal positioning. If preview images appear rotated incorrectly, use the camera in a horizontal orientation.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Captured Videos Not Oriented Correctly</strong></summary>

*Applies to Canon EOS R50, EOS R7, EOS R6 Mark II, and similar models.*

If vertical videos are captured horizontally, ensure the “Add movie rotate info” feature is enabled:

1. Turn on the camera.
2. Press Menu to open settings.
3. Go to the Wrench Tab → Page 1.
4. Set “Add movie rotate info” to “Enable.”

<figure><img src="/files/iPA000QxbtBIIZY7PKH6" alt="" width="188"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/gLbIrFgj5eaQm1BqKI7b" alt="" width="188"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
If this option is missing, your camera may not include an orientation sensor. In that case, use the camera horizontally.
{% endhint %}

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Frozen Camera Preview</strong></summary>

If the preview image freezes, ensure no camera menus or exposure mode guides are open. Half-press the shutter button to return to the live preview.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>App Switched to iPad Camera</strong></summary>

If an unrecoverable error occurs (for example, due to overheating) the app automatically switches to the iPad camera so you can continue your session without interruption. Once the DSLR cools down and reconnects, you can re-enable it through the Camera Manager.

</details>


# Sony Cameras

#### Compatible Cameras <a href="#compatible-cameras" id="compatible-cameras"></a>

Camera compatibility differs depending on whether you want to capture still images only or also videos.&#x20;

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Stills + Video" %}

* Sony Alpha 1 Mark II (ILCE-1M2)
* Sony Alpha 1 (ILCE-1)
* Sony Alpha 9 Mark III (ILCE-9M3)
* Sony Alpha 7R Mark V (ILCE-7RM5)
* Sony Alpha 7 Mark V (ILCE-7M5)
* Sony Alpha 7 Mark IV (ILCE-7M4)
* Sony Alpha 7S Mark III (ILCE-7SM3)
* Sony Alpha 7C Mark II (ILCE-7CM2)
* Sony Alpha 7CR (ILCE-7CR)
* Sony Alpha 6700 (ILCE-6700)
* Sony Alpha LR1 (ILX-LR1)
* Sony FX3 (ILME-FX3(A))
* Sony FX30 (ILME-FX30)
* Sony FX2 (ILME-FX2)
* Sony ZV-E1
* Sony RX1 Mark III (DSC-RX1RM3)
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Stills Only" %}

* Sony Alpha 9 Mark II (ILCE-9M2)
* Sony Alpha 7R Mark IV (ILCE-7RM4(A))
* Sony ​​Alpha 7C (ILCE-7C)
* Sony ZV-E10
* Sony ZV-E10M2
* Sony ZV-1M2
* Sony ZV-1(A)
* Sony Alpha 7R Mark III A (ILCE-7RM3A)
* Sony Alpha 7 Mark III (ILCE-7M3)
* Sony Alpha 6600 (ILCE-6600)
* Sony Alpha 6400 (A) (ILCE-6400(A))
* Sony Alpha 6100 (A) (ILCE-6100(A))
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

***

#### Accessories

* Optional: Dummy camera battery with power adapter.
* Optional: Memory card to enable video recording on supported models.
* USB hub with USB power delivery capability
* Power supply (65W or higher) with USB-C to USB-C cable (to power the IPad through the USB hub)
* USB-C to USB-A cable (to connect the camera to the USB hub)
* iPad running the HALO app
* Find stand and lighting recommendations [in our blog](https://www.simplebooth.com/blog/best-diy-photo-booths/)​

If your iPad has a Lightning port instead of USB-C (e.g. iPad 9th Gen), you will need a [Lighting to USB 3 adapter](https://www.apple.com/shop/product/mx5j3am/a/lightning-to-usb-3-camera-adapter) to connect a wired DSLR.

***

#### Recommended Camera Settings <a href="#recommended-camera-settings" id="recommended-camera-settings"></a>

Refer to your camera’s manual if you need more guidance on adjusting camera settings.

**Shooting settings**

* Image Quality
  * File Format: JPEG
  * Image Size: S
* Movie Quality
  * File Format: XAVC S HD
  * Movie Settings
    * Rec Frame Rate: 29.97P or 25P
    * Record Settings: 16M 4:2:0 8bit
* Shooting Mode: Auto (A), Program Mode (P), Aperture Priority (A), Shutter Priority (S), or Manual Exposure (M)
* Drive Mode: Single Shooting
* AF/MF settings
  * Focus Mode: Continuous AF
  * Priority Set in AF-C: Release
* Subject Recognition in AF: On
* Recognition Target: Human

**Setup settings**

* Auto Power OFF Temp: HIGH


# Wired Connections

Connect to any Sony camera via USB.&#x20;

***

#### How to Connect

1. Plug the USB hub into the iPad
2. Provide power to the pass-through port on the USB hub. The iPad should now indicate that it is charging.
3. Connect the Camera to the USB hub with a USB cable.
4. Insert a Memory Card into the camera. (Optional, Mandatory for video recordings)
5. Start the HALO App.
6. Launch into a preset. In the capture section, tap on the camera card and then on DSLR Connection Status.
7. Turn on the camera. If the camera asks you to choose a \[USB Connect Mode], select \[Remote Shoot (PC Remote)].


# Wireless Connection Steps (Newer Cameras)

You can connect the app wirelessly to Sony cameras released after 2020. If your camera is older, you can still connect wirelessly but will follow different [setup steps](/hardware-and-gear/dslr/sony-cameras/wireless-connection-steps-older-cameras).&#x20;

Any time you move to a new Wi-Fi network, you must follow the full setup steps to reestablish the link between your camera and the iPad. If you have already paired your devices and are staying on the same network, you can bypass the full process by following the "Using a Known Camera" instructions below.

***

#### Connecting a Camera

If you haven't used your Sony camera with our app before, there are additional steps to take to establish the connection.&#x20;

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Open the Camera Manager in the HALO app.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
In the camera’s Network Settings&#x20;

1. Ensure Access Authentication is disabled
   1. Navigate to MENU → \[Network] → \[Network Option] and set \[Access Authen. Settings] to \[Off].
2. Connect your camera to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPad.
   1. Navigate to MENU → \[Network] → \[Wi-Fi]
   2. Set \[Wi-Fi Connect] to \[On]
   3. Open \[Access Point Settings] and connect to the nearby access point.
3. Navigate to MENU → \[Network] → \[Cnct./Remote Sht.] → \[Remote Shoot Function]
   1. Set \[Remote Shooting] to \[On].
   2. Then, open the \[Paring] menu.
      {% endstep %}

{% step %}
The camera should show up in the HALO app. Tap Connect, then confirm pairing on the camera’s screen.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
HALO connects to the camera, and it is ready to go.

1. When establishing a connection after pairing fails, disable \[Remote Shooting] on the camera, then enable it. Then try to connect again.
   {% endstep %}
   {% endstepper %}

***

#### Using a Known Camera

To use a camera that has already been paired with HALO at least once:&#x20;

1. Open the Camera Manager in the HALO app.
2. On the camera, navigate to MENU → \[Network] → \[Cnct./Remote Sht.] → \[Remote Shoot Function] and set \[Remote Shooting] to \[On].
3. When the camera appears in the HALO app, tap Connect.


# Wireless Connection Steps (Older Cameras)

If your Sony is an A9 II, A7R IV, A7C, ZV-E10, ZV-1, use this guide to connect the app wirelessly to your camera.&#x20;

Any time you move to a new Wi-Fi network, you must follow the full setup steps to reestablish the link between your camera and the iPad. If you have already paired your devices and are staying on the same network, you can bypass the full process by following the "Using a Known Camera" instructions below.

***

#### Connecting a New Camera

If you haven't used your Sony camera with our app before, there are additional steps to take to establish the connection.&#x20;

1. Connect your camera to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPad.
   1. Navigate to MENU → \[Network] → \[Wi-Fi Settings]
   2. Open \[Access Point Set.] and connect to the nearby access point.
2. Configure the \[PC Remote Function]
   1. Navigate to MENU → \[Network] → \[PC Remote Function]
   2. Set \[PC Remote] to \[On]
   3. Set \[PC Remote Cnct Method] to \[Wi-Fi Access Point]
3. Open the \[Paring] menu.
4. The camera should show up in the HALO app. Tap Connect, then confirm pairing on the camera’s screen.
5. HALO connects to the camera, and it is ready to go.
6. When establishing a connection after pairing fails, disable \[PC Remote] on the camera, then enable it. Then try to connect again.

***

#### Using a Known Camera

To use a camera that has already been paired with HALO at least once:&#x20;

1. Open the Camera Manager in the Halo app.
2. On the camera, navigate to MENU → \[Network] → \[PC Remote Function] and set \[PC Remote] to \[On].
3. When the camera appears in the Halo app, tap Connect.


# Troubleshooting

<details>

<summary><strong>Something isn't working as expected</strong></summary>

If something isn't working as expected, check for a firmware update first.

A1 II, A1, A9 III, a7R V, A7 V, A7 IV, A7S III, A7C II, A7CR, A6700, LR1, FX3, FX30, FX2, ZV-E1, RX1 III

This app relies on camera control features that Sony introduced in recent firmware updates. Without the latest firmware, certain functions may behave unexpectedly, be unavailable, or fail to work entirely.

How to check and update your camera's firmware:

1. On your Sony camera, navigate to MENU → \[Setup]  → \[Setup Option] → \[Version] to view the currently installed firmware version.
2. Visit Sony's official support website and look up your camera model to see the latest available firmware version.
3. If a newer version is available, follow Sony's instructions to download and install it.
4. After updating, restart the camera and reconnect it to your iPad.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>My Sony camera is not recognized when connected via USB</strong></summary>

**Models: A1 II, A1, A9 III, a7R V, A7 V, A7 IV, A7S III, A7C II, A7CR, A6700, LR1, FX3, FX30, FX2, ZV-E1, ZV-E10 II, ZV-1 II, RX1 III**

1. Ensure the USB Connection mode setting is set to \[Sel. When Connect] or \[Remote Shooting].
2. Navigate to MENU → (Setup) → \[USB] → \[USB Connection Mode] and change the option to \[Sel. When Connect]. Alternatively, you can set \[Remote Shooting] as the default, so you do not need to set the connection mode each time you connect via USB.

**Models: A9 II, a7R IV, A7C, ZV-E10, ZV-1**

1. Ensure the smartphone connection option \[Smartphone Connection] is turned off.
2. Set MENU → (Network) → \[Smartphone Connect] → \[Smartphone Connection] to \[Off]
3. Then, navigate to MENU →(Network) → \[PC Remote Function] and set PC Remote to \[On].
4. Finally, ensure \[PC Remote Cnct Method] is set to \[USB].

**A7R IIIA, A7III, A6600, A6400, A6100**

1. Ensure the smartphone control option \[Ctrl w/ Smartphone] is turned off.
2. Set MENU →  (Network) → \[Ctrl w/ Smartphone] → \[Ctrl w/ Smartphone] to  \[Off].
3. Ensure the \[UBS Connection] mode setting is set to \[PC Remote].
4. Navigate to MENU → \[Setup] → \[USB Connection] and change the option to \[PC Remote].

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Capturing an image times out on my Sony camera</strong></summary>

**Models: A1 II, A1, A9 III, a7R V, A7 V, A7 IV, A7S III, A7C II, A7CR, A6700, LR1, FX3, FX30, FX2, ZV-E1, RX1 III**

If you're experiencing capture timeouts, check your camera's Area/Date/Time Settings:

1. On your Sony camera, open the menu and navigate to MENU → \[Setup] → \[Area/Date] → \[Area/Date/Time Settings].
2. Verify that the time zone (Area Setting), Daylight Saving time option, and Date/Time settings match those of your iPad.
3. Adjust as needed, paying attention to daylight saving time settings.
4. After updating the camera, reconnect it to the iPad and try capturing again.

{% hint style="info" %}
It's good practice to verify clock synchronization before any important shoot, especially after traveling across time zones, replacing the camera battery, or leaving the camera unused for an extended period (the internal backup battery that maintains the clock can deplete).
{% endhint %}

</details>


# Printing Overview

Simple Booth makes it easy to provide physical keepsakes for your guests. Printing is designed to happen directly in-app at the end of a session, or while you are testing from your settings.

There are three main steps to successful printing.&#x20;

1. Use a compatible printer
2. Connect your printer and iPad
3. Format your layout for clean, professional prints

***

#### 1. Compatible Printers

Choosing the right hardware depends on your event needs and budget.

* **AirPrint Printers**: These are "plug-and-play" and require no special setup to communicate with your iPad. [Learn more](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-recommendations/printers-for-casual-use).
  * **Best for**: Ease of use and smaller events.
  * **Drawback**: Slower print speeds; not ideal for high-volume crowds.
* **Dye-Sublimation Printers**: The professional standard for photo booths, known for speed and durability. [Learn more](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-recommendations/printers-for-professionals).
  * **Best for**: High-volume events and a lower cost-per-print over time.
  * **Note**: These require a wireless print server to communicate with your iPad.

***

#### 2. Connecting your Printer

The steps to connect will depend on your specific printer model, though most setups utilize a wireless connection. [Learn more](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-setup).&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}
Until you are familiar and comfortable with the setup process, keep a copy of your printer's manual on hand for detailed instructions specific to your hardware.
{% endhint %}

***

#### 3. Formatting Prints

Your print layout is based directly on your digital layout. You will begin by designing the digital copy, then create the print layout using that design as your foundation.

Once the layout is generated, you may need to make fine-tuned adjustments to the frame size or other graphic elements. This ensures that frames are perfectly centered, uniform, and completely fill the printable area of your paper. [Learn more](/hardware-and-gear/printing/formatting-prints).

{% hint style="warning" %}
To ensure your prints are formatted correctly, they must be generated through the app’s print workflow.&#x20;

If you want to preserve these formatted sheets for re-printing later, we recommend using our [**Dropbox integration**](/customization-guide/basic-setup/main-preset-settings/saving-methods), which can automatically save copies of your print-ready layouts as they are created.
{% endhint %}


# Wireless Printing

Need-to-know information about printing over WiFi

In most cases (except when using [AirCast Pro](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-setup/aircast-pro-setup#h_5e406f6007)), printing happens over WiFi. A quick overview of how different network types work can make printing easier to understand and troubleshoot.

***

### Local vs. External WiFi Networks <a href="#h_2c7eb07149" id="h_2c7eb07149"></a>

Knowing the difference helps you understand whether you can print and send digital copies at the same time.

***

### External Networks <a href="#h_b3feba14ac" id="h_b3feba14ac"></a>

* **Definition**: An external network is the typical WiFi you connect to at home, work, or an event venue. These networks connect to the internet.
* **Digital Copies**: Because the iPad is online, it can reach your printer and also upload digital copies as soon as they’re taken.
* **When & how to use**: Use an external network whenever it’s available. For best results, connect to a password-protected network instead of one open to event guests.

#### Reliable External Networks

* **Password-Protected Venue Network**\
  At most venues, the event organizer can provide access to a password-protected WiFi network. This is usually an internal network that staff can use, but guests cannot. The fewer people connected, the more stable it will be for printing.<br>
* **Personal Hotspot or iPad's Cellular**\
  A personal hotspot (or an iPad with cellular) can also work for printing. For printing purposes, a hotspot behaves the same as any other WiFi network.\
  \
  Keep in mind that cellular-based network reliability varies by location. Coverage can weaken inside large buildings, basements, or crowded environments.

***

### Local Networks <a href="#h_f77a90a2ac" id="h_f77a90a2ac"></a>

* **Definition**: A local network (often called a LAN) is a private network you create on-site. Think of a local network like a bubble in your space. Devices inside the bubble can talk to each other, but not other devices outside the bubble.
* **Digital Copies**: A local network can print in real time. Digital copies will stay [queued](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/offline-upload-queue) in the app until the iPad reconnects to an external network.
* **When & how to use**: Local networks are a great backup when the venue’s WiFi is unreliable or unavailable. Some printers can create their own local network, but there are [other ways](https://www.simplebooth.com/blog/wifi-photo-booth-printing/) to set one up as well.

#### Reliable Local Networks

When set up properly, a local network is a very reliable option. Learn more about local network options [here](https://www.simplebooth.com/blog/wifi-photo-booth-printing/).

***

{% hint style="danger" %}

## Unreliable Network Choices

**Guest-Accessible Venue Networks**\
If the only available WiFi is a network that guests can join (or one with no password) it may not work with your printer at all. Even if the printer connects, you’re more likely to see intermittent issues during the event. <br>

**School, Government, & Other Secure Networks**\
Highly secured networks often prevent devices from communicating with each other on the same network. Since printing requires your iPad and printer to talk to each other, these networks are usually not suitable.
{% endhint %}


# Printer Recommendations

Choosing the right printer depends on your event volume, budget, and desired setup speed. While Simple Booth works with various hardware, printers generally fall into two main categories.

***

### Printer Types

#### **Consumer Printers**

"Consumer” printers are designed for general home or small office photo printing. These models typically come AirPrint-compatible out-of-the-box, making the initial setup very straightforward.

* **Pros**: More affordable upfront cost and very easy to configure.
* **Cons**: Slower printing speeds and higher long-term ink costs.

<a href="/pages/46S66CTeMxnqov0ryzD9" class="button primary">Consumer Printer Recommendations</a>

#### **Dye-Sublimation Printers**

Dye-sublimation (dye-sub) printers are the industry standard for professionals. These are built for high-volume photo booth environments.

* **Pros**: Much faster print speeds, professional-grade durability, and a lower cost-per-print.
* **Cons**: Higher initial investment and a multi-step setup process.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Dye-sub printers require a wireless print server (such as a laptop running helper software or a dedicated hardware bridge) to connect with an iPad and the Simple Booth app.
{% endhint %}

<a href="/pages/93CUJ1Qmo0ytIdwE02vX" class="button primary">Dye-sub Recommendations</a>


# Printers for Casual Use

Affordable, easy-to-use printers

These consumer printers are designed for photo printing and come AirPrint compatible out of the box, which makes setup simple.&#x20;

They’re more affordable but usually slower, averaging about 90 seconds per print. For smaller or more relaxed events, they can be a great fit.

***

#### Epson PictureMate

The Epson PictureMate is an inkjet printer that supports 4x6 and 5x7 photo paper. Prints usually take around 75 seconds.

***

#### **Other Options**

Apple's website has [a page](https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201311) that links to a tool for checking AirPrint compatibility.

Most printers built specifically for photo printing (not document printing) will work well.


# Printers for Professionals

Powerful, fast printers

Dye-sublimation printers are more expensive and require a couple of additional setup steps, but if you’re using Simple Booth professionally, they are a worthwhile investment.&#x20;

They are much faster than [consumer printers](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-recommendations/printers-for-casual-use), with some models printing in as little as 30 seconds. The time savings will be noticeable at busy events. They also have lower long-term media costs, since paper and ink bundles are more affordable over time.&#x20;

Some models can even cut photo strips automatically.

***

### Recommended brands

* [DNP](https://dnpphoto.com/en-us/)&#x20;
* [HiTi](https://www.hiti.com/)&#x20;

***

### Using Dye-Sub Printers

**Dye-sublimation printers are not built to be AirPrint compatible**, so need to be paired with a print server before it will be able to connect to your iPad. Without wireless print server software, your iPad and dye-sub printer will not be able to communicate.&#x20;

#### Compatible Print Servers

Be sure the print server you choose is compatible with the printer you own or plan to purchase.

* [**AirCastPro 3**](https://aircastpro.com/): The AirCastPro is a great option that will work with a variety of printer brands. Learn more about how to connect to the AirCastPro [here](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-setup/aircast-pro-setup).
* [**DNP WCM Plus**](https://dnpphoto.com/en-us/Products/Event-and-Retail-Solutions/WCMPlus): DNP's WCM Plus pairs seamlessly with DNP printer models. Learn more about how to connect to the WCM [here](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-setup/dnp-wcm-setup).

{% hint style="warning" %}
We cannot guarantee that other print servers not listed here will work reliably.
{% endhint %}


# Printer Setup

A step-by-step guide to connect your iPad and printer

Learn how to connect your printer to your network, pair it with your iPad, and run test prints to ensure everything is ready for your event.

***

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Connect your printer to your network

The process for connecting to a network depends on your specific printer model. Learn more about reliable network choices [here](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printing-overview/wireless-printing).

* **Standard Printers**: Open the printer’s network or Wi-Fi menu and select your desired network.
* **Print Servers**: If you are using a [print server](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-recommendations/printers-for-professionals), adjust these settings within the print server configuration menu instead.
  * [AirCast Pro Setup Guide](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-setup/aircast-pro-setup)
  * [DNP WCM Setup guide](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-setup/dnp-wcm-setup)

{% hint style="info" %}
If you cannot locate the network settings, please refer to the manual for your printer or print server.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Connect your iPad to the same network

**Your iPad and printer must be on the same network** for printing to function.

If your iPad has joined other nearby networks in the past, it may automatically reconnect to them during an event. To prevent this, open your iPad Wi-Fi settings and [**forget**](https://support.apple.com/en-us/102480) any networks you do not plan to use.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Try a test print

Before testing, ensure you have created and saved at least one **print layout**.&#x20;

When you add your first layout, the app will prompt you to enable printing as a sharing option. You can also manage this at any time from the **Send Options** card.

You can perform a test print from three different locations:

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Print Layout Settings" %}
From the [**Layout Designer**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview), tap the printer icon in the top-right corner to select your printer. Once connected, the **Test Print** button will activate.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Send Options Settings" %}
From the [Experience Designer](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print) Send & Print, locate the **Test Print** button beneath your print preview(s). Select your printer first to activate the button.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Booth Mode" %}
[Launch the app](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/preparing-for-events/launching-your-booth) and run a full session to confirm the entire workflow from start to finish.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

{% hint style="info" %}
[Tips on fixing formatting issues](/hardware-and-gear/printing/formatting-prints)
{% endhint %}

***

#### Fix Potential Connection Issues

Most printing problems are related to the network environment rather than the app itself. A weak signal, busy network, or firewall can prevent the iPad and printer from communicating.

If your printer will not connect, it can take some work to understand exactly why. Troubleshooting steps typically involve narrowing down whether the issue is being caused by the network hardware or specific security settings blocking the connection.&#x20;

Learn more in our [**Troubleshooting Guide**](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-setup/troubleshooting-printer-connections)**.**
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}


# AirCast Pro Setup

Guide to connect to the AirCastPro 3 wireless print server.

How to connect your HALO app with the AirCast Pro for the purposes of printing with a [dye-sublimation printer](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-recommendations/printers-for-professionals).

***

### Initial Setup <a href="#how-to-connect" id="how-to-connect"></a>

{% hint style="info" %}
Keep your print server's manual on hand for more detailed information and troubleshooting help.

<p align="center"><a href="https://aircastpro.com/support/knowledgebase.php" class="button primary">AirCast Pro Support Center</a></p>
{% endhint %}

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Power On

Plug in the AirCastPro. It will turn on automatically, and a green light will appear after a few seconds.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Connect to AirCastPro Network**

* Open your [iPad's WiFi settings](https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/connect-to-the-internet-ipad2db29c3a/ipados) and connect to the AirCastPro network.
* The default password for all new AirCastPros is: aircastpro (refer to the AirCastPro manual to change the password).
* If the network doesn’t initially appear, toggle your WiFi off and back on to get it to populate.&#x20;
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Configure Network Settings**

* Open a browser on your iPad and visit [http://192.168.4.1](http://192.168.4.1/). The page can sometimes feel slow to load.
* Tap on the WiFi status (top-left) and select your desired network.
* Enter the network password to connect.

You can also simply use the AirCast Pro's local network.&#x20;
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Connect to Printer**

* Plug the AirCastPro into your printer via USB.
* Power your printer on and AirCastPro should automatically detect it.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Reconnect iPad to Network**

* Revisit your iPad's WiFi settings
* Select the network linked to your AirCastPro.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Set Up in HALO App**

* Open the HALO app and navigate to your Prints panel
* Select the connected printer
* Tap "test print" to confirm the connection is established.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}

## Using New Networks

When connecting to a new external network, repeat steps 3–4. For familiar networks, AirCastPro should reconnect automatically.\
​\
Double check your network settings at [http://192.168.4.1](http://192.168.4.1/) if you ever run into trouble printing through a previously established network.
{% endhint %}

***

### Tethered (Wired) Printing <a href="#h_5e406f6007" id="h_5e406f6007"></a>

In a pinch you can connect your printer directly to your iPad via the AirCastPro. See a video version of these instructions [here](https://aircastpro.com/support/knowledgebase.php?article=30).<br>

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### **Power On**

Plug in the AirCastPro. It will turn on automatically, and a green light will appear after a few seconds.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Connect to the AirCastPro Local Hotspot**

* If you’re connected to an external network, in the AirCastPro settings ([http://192.168.4.1](http://192.168.4.1/)) tap the menu bar (top-left), go to network settings, and disconnect from the current network.
* If needed, unplug and reconnect the AirCastPro to fully disconnect.

Ensure your iPad is connected to the AirCastPro’s local hotspot, not an external network.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Test Print with the AirCastPro Hotspot**

Perform a test print while connected to the local hotspot to confirm the connection before proceeding.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Connect Your iPad via Ethernet**

* In your iPad’s settings, check for a new “Ethernet” section beneath WiFi settings to confirm the connection.
* Plug the Ethernet cable into the AirCastPro and then into your iPad using the appropriate adapter.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### **Configure Ethernet Settings**

* Look for a green IP address in the top-left corner (refresh the page if needed).
* Choose "Local Link" from the dropdown menu and save.
* Tap the Ethernet settings in the top-left corner.
* Open a browser to the AirCastPro settings ([http://192.168.4.1](http://192.168.4.1/)).
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### **Disable WiFi & Print**

* Disable WiFi in your iPad settings.
* Open the HALO app and navigate to the Prints panel.
* Select the connected printer.
* Tap Test Print to confirm the setup is complete.&#x20;
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

***

### Configuring AirCastPro Settings <a href="#h_55a21e7e5d" id="h_55a21e7e5d"></a>

Simple Booth supports our own print formatting settings, which are the primary way to ensure your prints look great. For more details, check out [this article on print formatting](/hardware-and-gear/printing/formatting-prints).

AirCastPro also offers additional settings for fine-tuning print output, including adjustments for color, resolution, and formatting.

You’ll rarely need to modify AirCastPro’s formatting options—Simple Booth’s settings typically cover everything you need to accomplish.

For more details on advanced adjustments, refer to the [AirCastPro manual](https://aircastpro.com/support/knowledgebase.php).


# DNP WCM Setup

Guide to connect to DNP's WCM wireless print server.

How to connect your HALO app with the WCM for the purposes of printing with a [dye-sublimation printer](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-recommendations/printers-for-professionals).

***

### Initial Setup <a href="#h_649a44193f" id="h_649a44193f"></a>

{% hint style="info" %}
Be sure to have your print server's manual on hand for more detailed information and troubleshooting help should you run into any problems.

<p align="center"><a href="https://dnpphoto.com/en-us/Support/Downloads/Manuals" class="button primary">DNP Manuals</a></p>
{% endhint %}

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Power On

* Plug in and turn on your DNP printer and make sure no error lights are flashing.
* ​Plug the WCM into your printer via USB, then plug the WCM into your power source.
* The WCM will power on and once it boots, will print a test page with information about the WCM hotspot (the local network).
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Connect to WCM Hotspot**

* Open your [iPad's WiFi settings](https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/connect-to-the-internet-ipad2db29c3a/ipados) or scan the QR code from your test print and connect to the WCM hotspot.
* The default password for all new WCMs is: dnp12345 (refer to the WCM manual to change the password).
* If the network doesn’t initially appear, toggle your WiFi off and back on to get it to populate.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Configure Network Settings**

* Open a browser on your iPad and visit [http://192.168.4.1](http://192.168.4.1/). The page can sometimes feel slow to load.
* Tap on the menu bar (top-left), then tap into the network settings.
* Use the dropdown to select your desired network, then enter your password.

You can also simply use the WCM's local network.&#x20;
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Reconnect iPad to Network**

* Revisit your iPad's WiFi settings
* Select the network linked to your WCM.'
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Set Up in HALO App**

* Open the HALO app and navigate to your Prints panel
* Select the connected printer
* Tap "test print" to confirm the connection is established.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

***

{% hint style="info" %}

## Using New Networks

When connecting to a new external network, repeat steps 3–4. For familiar networks, WCM should reconnect automatically.\
​\
Double check your network settings at [http://192.168.4.1](http://192.168.4.1/) if you ever run into trouble printing through a previously established network.
{% endhint %}

***

### Configuring WCM Settings <a href="#h_6fca270305" id="h_6fca270305"></a>

Simple Booth supports our own print formatting settings, which are the primary way to ensure your prints look great. For more details, check out [this article on print formatting.](/hardware-and-gear/printing/formatting-prints)

Your WCM also offers additional settings for fine-tuning print output, including adjustments for color, resolution, and formatting.

You’ll rarely need to modify the WCM formatting options—Simple Booth’s settings typically cover everything you need to accomplish.

For more details on advanced adjustments, refer to the [WCM manual](https://dnpphoto.com/en-us/Support/Downloads/Manuals).


# Troubleshooting Printer Connections

How to test your setup and restore your connection

Most connection problems come down to the Wi-Fi network. These steps help you test the iPad, network, and app in the right order.

{% hint style="info" %}
If you’re using a dye-sublimation printer for the first time, it’s possible the printer wasn’t fully configured yet. You’re welcome to start with the steps below, but if nothing seems to work, don't skip the final section below.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

***

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Confirm your Wi-Fi network is working

Both the iPad and the printer must be on the same [network](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printing-overview/wireless-printing), and that network must support AirPrint traffic.

**Steps To Test**

1. Open the Photos app on your iPad → choose any photo → tap Print.
2. Choose your printer when prompted, and wait for your print out

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Successful Print" %}
Your network connection is working. Continue to step 2.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Unsuccessful Print" %}
This almost always points to a network issue. Try the suggestions below:

• Make sure both the iPad and printer are still connected to the same network.\
• Turn off Private Wi-Fi Address in Settings → Wi-Fi → your network.\
• Connect to a different network if one is available and try another test print.\
• If you only have one network and it’s unreliable, check our recommended network options.\
• Forget any networks you don’t plan to use at the event.

If the Photos app cannot print, the HALO app will not be able to print either.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Confirm the HALO app is sending the print job

Once Photos works, Simple Booth should also be able to print.

**How To Test**

1. [Print a photo](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-setup#try-a-test-print) from the HALO app.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Successful Print" %}
Your setup is good to go.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Unsuccessful Print" %}
HALO sends all print jobs through Apple’s AirPrint system. iPadOS will briefly show a print status screen while a job is in progress. If you don’t see this appear:

• HALO may not have reached the printer\
• The iPad may not be connected to the same network as the printer\
• The printer may be offline or unreachable
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Ensure the printer works on its own

If neither of the steps above resolve the issue, confirm that the printer itself is set up correctly. This step takes a little more time, but it’s the best way to confirm the printer’s core setup.

**How To Test**

Connect the printer to a computer and print any file.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Successful Print" %}
The printer is functional. The issue is most likely the network or AirPrint.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Unsuccessful Print" %}
This usually means the printer wasn’t configured properly.

Try:

• Checking for firmware updates\
• Reinstalling the printer driver and firmware\
• Power cycling the printer and testing again
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

If you need more help, please contact us at <support@simplebooth.com>.&#x20;


# Formatting Prints

Print layouts are initially based on your digital layout, but they almost always require adjustments to ensure frames and other elements are centered, uniform, and completely fill the printable area of your paper.

For the best results, your digital layout’s aspect ratio should closely match your selected paper size or be easily adaptable to it.

***

### Add or Open a Print Layout

When you open a layout in the Layout Designer, you will first see the digital version.

* **If you already have a print layout saved**: Use the tab at the top of the screen to switch from the digital layout to your print layout.
* **If you don't have a print layout yet**:
  1. Use the **Add Print** button at the top of the Inspector.
  2. **Select and save a print size** that matches your printer paper (common sizes range from 2x6 to 8x6).
  3. **Duplicate (Optional)**: Most commonly used for photo strips, the duplicate option in the Inspector will place two copies of the template side-by-side. The final print size will be displayed for your reference.

<figure><img src="/files/HXsJUj4w7h0dxhTzOgUz" alt="" width="563"><figcaption><p>Add a print layout.</p></figcaption></figure>

***

### Formatting Print Layouts

After selecting your paper size, your layout elements will appear on the canvas. You will use the same tools available in the Layout Designer for digital copies to adjust your print layout.

#### **Fill the paper's space completely**

If your picture frames and graphic elements don't fully fill the print preview, consider the following changes:

* **Change the frame aspect ratio**: A square cropped picture, for example, cannot fully fill a 4x6 piece of paper without leaving significant empty space. Adjust your crop to better match the paper dimensions.
* **Add or tweak graphic elements**: If you prefer a specific crop (like square), you can fill the remaining paper space by adding a logo or text above or beneath the photo frame.

{% hint style="info" %}
It may be easiest to start from scratch: delete the print layout, adjust the digital copy (to more closely match the paper size's aspect ratio), and then re-add the print layout.
{% endhint %}

#### **Creative ways to refine your design**

Your print layout does not have to be an exact replica of the digital version. You can customize it specifically for the physical takeaway:

* **Add a QR code**: Include a QR code that appears *only* on prints. Participants can scan the physical photo to visit your website or the event's gallery.
* **Simplify the design**: You might choose to remove certain overlays or logos for the print version to give participants a cleaner photo for their fridge, while keeping the digital version heavily branded for social sharing.
* **Background Colors**: Set a background color or upload a background image specifically for the print layout to ensure no "white" paper shows through if your frames don't cover the entire area.

***

### Testing Print Formatting

The print preview in the designer provides a close representation of the final physical copy. If the design looks off-center or poorly scaled in the preview, make further adjustments before printing to avoid wasting expensive media.

When you're ready to test:

* **In the App**: Tap the printer icon to connect to your printer and run quick test prints as you adjust settings. If you select a printer here, the app will remember it when you launch the booth.
* **Online (Dashboard)**: Use the save icon to download a copy of the print layout to your computer. You can then print this file from your computer's local print settings to check alignment.

Dialing in your print formatting may take a few test runs to get perfectly aligned.


# Duplicating Print Layouts

Most commonly used for printing photo strips side-by-side, duplicating your print layout helps you fill your printer paper efficiently and provides guests with multiple copies of their session to take home. While this is the standard method for creating "strips," you can technically duplicate any layout type to fit your paper size.

***

### How to Create Duplicated Layouts <a href="#h_fee9a04956" id="h_fee9a04956"></a>

When you open a layout in the Layout Designer, you will first see the digital version. If you already have a print layout saved and want to switch to a duplicated format, we recommend deleting the existing print layout and starting fresh using the steps below:

1. Use the **Add Print** button at the top of the Inspector.
2. **Select your initial size**: Choose a print size that is a fraction of your final paper size. For example, if you want to print two side-by-side strips on 4x6 paper, select 2x6 as your initial size.
   * **Note on selection**: We know selecting a "fraction" of your paper size can feel a bit backwards! Our team is working on making this setup more intuitive in the future, but for now, this remains the most reliable way to ensure your dimensions are perfect.
3. **Duplicate the layout**: increase the **Copies** (or duplicates) count in the Inspector. This will place the copies of your template side-by-side when printed out. The final combined print size (e.g., 4x6) will be displayed for your reference.&#x20;
   * **Note on display**: Please note that the duplicate copies will not appear in your print layout preview. We know it would be much more helpful to see all copies on the canvas and plan to introduce this visual preview soon.

***

### Tips for Formatting Photo Strips <a href="#h_fee9a04956" id="h_fee9a04956"></a>

#### **1x3 Strips (3 photos)**

* **Use Square Crop (1:1)**: Portrait-oriented layouts (2:3, 3:4) are often too "tall" for 1x3 strips, and landscape crops can be too wide. Square photos provide the most balanced look.
* **Logos and Orientation**: If you prefer **Landscape** orientation (3:2, 4:3), adding a logo can help fill the vertical space. If you are using **Portrait** orientation (2:3, 3:4), it is best to avoid a logo so the strip doesn't become excessively long.

#### 1x4 Strips (4 photos) <a href="#h_fee9a04956" id="h_fee9a04956"></a>

* **Orientation**: Use **Landscape** (3:2, 4:3) mode or a **Square** crop (1:1). 1x4 strips are generally incompatible with Portrait orientation because the layout becomes too tall to fit the paper's aspect ratio.
* **Avoid Logos**: Because 1x4 strips are already very long, adding a logo often pushes the layout past the printable boundaries. To keep your branding without adding height, consider adding your graphics to margins or placed strategically on top of the photos.&#x20;

***

### Cutting Strips <a href="#h_a9a29e38d4" id="h_a9a29e38d4"></a>

Many professional [dye-sublimation printers](/hardware-and-gear/printing/printer-recommendations/printers-for-professionals) have a "2x6 cut" setting that will automatically slice your 4x6 sheet into two individual strips. If your printer does not support automatic cutting, you can easily use a manual paper cutter to separate them.

Refer to your printer's manual to see if internal cutting is a supported feature and how to enable it in your print settings.


# Bluetooth Remote Compatibility

We support using clicker remotes that send a volume plus signal to the iPad. This will initiate the photo countdown instead of tapping the screen. Guests will need to interact with the screen to advance through the edit and sharing screens after their pictures are taken.

Here is one we have used. ​Not all bluetooth remotes will work with our apps.

<p align="center"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/CamKix-Wireless-Bluetooth-Shutter-Smartphones/dp/B00PJSIIES" class="button primary">CamKix Remote</a></p>

***

#### Settings Limitations <a href="#h_ad9cb45a7c" id="h_ad9cb45a7c"></a>

The following "pre-capture" adjustments require participants to interact with the iPad's screen before taking their photo(s). If you'd prefer to minimize interaction with the iPad before capture, these settings should be avoided.

* [Multiple layouts](/customization-guide/layout-designer/creating-layouts)
* [Background Replacement](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/background-replacement)
* [Age Gate](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/age-gate)


# Microphone Recommendations

Adding a microphone to your setup is the best way to ensure high-quality audio for video captures, Video FX, and GIFs. To ensure a stable and high-quality connection, the HALO app requires a **wired connection** for all external microphones.

{% hint style="info" %}

#### Why Wired over Bluetooth?

While Bluetooth microphones are convenient for casual use, they are not recommended for professional event environments.

Bluetooth audio often suffers from **latency** (a slight delay between the sound and the recording), which leads to frustrating sync issues between the audio and video.&#x20;

Bluetooth connections are also more susceptible to interference in crowded event spaces. A wired connection provides a "plug-and-play" experience with zero latency and superior audio fidelity.
{% endhint %}

***

#### Recommended Gear List

To use a microphone with your iPad, you will need the following items:

* **Microphone:** [Rode PodMic](https://amzn.to/4wcg5py) (or equivalent for your iPad's port type).
* **Microphone Stand:** [Desktop Tripod or Floor Stand](https://amzn.to/42cF5zp).
* **Power/Audio Splitter:** To ensure your iPad stays charged throughout the event, you must use a USB-C or Lightning "Power + Audio" adapter or a USB-C hub. This allows you to plug in the microphone while simultaneously connected to a continuous power source.


# Microphone Setup

Connecting an external microphone to your iPad allows you to capture high-quality audio for Video.&#x20;

To ensure a successful setup, confirm that you have your wired microphone and a compatible power/audio splitter ready. Because the HALO app requires a constant power supply for professional events, using a splitter is the only way to maintain your battery while the microphone port is occupied.

***

### Setup Instructions

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
If your microphone is brand new, refer to the manufacturer’s manual to complete any required initial configuration or firmware updates before connecting it to the iPad.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Plug your splitter or USB hub into the iPad. Insert your charging cable and your microphone into the respective ports on the adapter.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Power Tip:** While you can plug a microphone directly into the iPad for quick testing, a splitter is **required** for live events to ensure the iPad doesn't run out of battery.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Launch the HALO app and advance to the **PreFlight Check** screen. This is where you verify that all hardware components are communicating correctly with the software.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Locate the **Devices** section. You should see your external microphone listed as the active input.

* **Don't see it?** If the mic doesn't appear, tap the **"More Info"** button to trigger a rescan for external audio devices.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

***

{% hint style="info" %}
**Testing Your Audio**&#x20;

We recommend taking a test video during your setup to playback and verify that the audio levels are clear and that there is no interference from the booth's environment.
{% endhint %}


# Create a Preset

### What is a preset?

Your preset controls how your HALO booth looks and behaves during an event.

Every photo your booth captures is created using a **preset** and sent to a connected **gallery**. These two pieces work together, but they serve different roles.

***

#### Presets

Presets control the booth-side experience, including:

* Photo [layout and design](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview)
* Filters and visual effects
* Editing tools available to participants
* Sharing methods like text message or QR codes
* Participant data capture (Pro and Select plans only)

***

#### Galleries

[**Galleries**](/customization-guide/basic-setup/pair-a-gallery) control the online experience after the photo is taken. They manage where photos are saved and how participants view and share them later.

You’ll fully configure galleries in the next step. For now, the important thing to know is that every preset must be paired with a gallery.

***

{% hint style="info" %}

## See preset & gallery pairs in your settings

Your [preset](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets) and [gallery](https://app.simplebooth.com/galleries) lists display your connected settings. You can also click into any preset or gallery to view a list of connected settings.&#x20;
{% endhint %}


# Create a new preset

#### When to Create a New Preset

Consider creating a new preset in the following scenarios:

* **One-off Events:** Unique occasions like weddings, birthdays, or corporate events.
* **Client Events:** Situations where branding or layouts undergo changes.
* **Photo Separation:** Anytime you want to ensure photos are distinctly categorized without mixing with past events.

Creating a new preset ensures that photos remain exclusive to an event, preventing any mix-up later on.

***

#### Creating a new preset

You can create presets either online or directly in the HALO app. Both options work the same way.

1. Sign into your Simple Booth account in app or online&#x20;
2. Select the [Presets](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets) tab in the top navigation
3. Click the blue + button in the top-right corner
4. Enter a preset name. This name is for your reference only. Participants will not see it.
5. Click "Next" to continue and [pair a gallery](/customization-guide/basic-setup/pair-a-gallery).&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/XUWP63xwTX3RszVuv7l7" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


# Use an existing preset

#### When to Reuse a Preset

Reusing an existing preset is ideal in these scenarios:

* **Permanent Installations**: For consistent booth experiences.
* **Ongoing or Multi-location Activations**: When graphics and settings remain unchanged.
* **Repeat Use Cases**: To intentionally collect photos together.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Avoid reusing presets for unrelated events. This practice can lead to confusion as photos from the ongoing event might get mixed up with those from the copied event. Instead, [make a copy](/customization-guide/basic-setup/create-a-preset/copying-presets).
{% endhint %}

***

#### Reusing a preset

You can reuse or edit any preset at any time. Changes save automatically and can be updated right up until (or even during) your event.&#x20;

1. Sign into your Simple Booth account in app or online&#x20;
2. Select the [**Presets**](https://app.simplebooth.com/) tab in the top navigation
3. Select the title of the preset you want to edit

{% hint style="info" %}
If you don't see the preset you're looking for, it may have been archived or deleted. \
\
Archived presets must be recovered from your online [dashboard](https://app.simplebooth.com). Deleted presets cannot be recovered.&#x20;
{% endhint %}


# Copying Presets

Copying an existing preset is often the most efficient way to set up a new event. Instead of starting from scratch, you can duplicate a proven configuration and simply adjust the details.

***

#### How to Copy a Preset

There are two quick ways to duplicate a [preset](https://app.simplebooth.com/) from your dashboard:

**From the Preset List**&#x20;

* **Online**: Locate the preset you want to copy, click the **Actions** dropdown menu on the top right-hand side, and select **Copy**.
* **In app**: **swipe left** on a preset in your list, and select **Copy**.

**From Within a Preset**

* **Online**: If you already have a preset open, click the **Actions** button in the top-right corner and select **Copy**.
* **In app**: tap the **settings icon** on the top right-hand side, and select **Copy**.

After copying, the new preset will appear in your list with "Copy" added to the title. We recommend renaming it immediately via the **Actions** menu to keep your dashboard organized.

***

#### Linking to a New Gallery

When you copy a preset, the new version remains linked to the same gallery as the original. If your new event requires its own unique gallery, follow these steps to disconnect the old one and link a new one:

1. **Create a New Gallery**: Navigate to your **Galleries** page and click the button in the upper right corner to create a new gallery for your upcoming event.
   * Skip to step 2 if your gallery has already been created.&#x20;
2. **Return to the Preset**: Navigate to your **Presets** list and click into the newly copied preset.&#x20;
3. **Update the Gallery Link**: Find the connected Gallery within the Preset's **General Settings**
4. **Select the New Gallery**: Use the **Actions** dropdown menu and use the **Choose** option to select the new gallery you just created.


# Pair a Gallery

#### Understanding Galleries and Presets

A **gallery** manages the online space where guests can view and share their photos post-event. While **presets** and **galleries** complement each other, they serve unique functions:

* **Presets** dictate the booth's appearance and behavior.
* **Galleries** determine where photos are stored and displayed online.

***

#### Pairing Presets with Galleries

Every preset requires a linked gallery for photo collection and sharing. When configuring a preset, you can choose to create a [new gallery](/customization-guide/basic-setup/pair-a-gallery/create-a-new-gallery) or link an [existing one](/customization-guide/basic-setup/pair-a-gallery/use-an-existing-gallery). This selection impacts how attendees access their photos post-event.

**Customization Options**

* Customize gallery appearance and privacy settings.
* Higher-tier plans offer more customization features.

**Additional Notes**

* The preset list indicates the gallery linked to each preset.
* Each gallery lists all associated presets.
* You can creatively reuse presets and galleries if needed for unique scenarios.

{% hint style="warning" %}

## **Avoiding Photo Mix-ups**

* Photos are tied to the preset, not directly to the gallery.
* Changing the gallery on a preset gives you the option to move all associated photos to the new gallery.
* Avoid reusing presets for new events by merely changing galleries. Instead, duplicate the preset to retain past event photos while preparing for a new event.
  {% endhint %}


# Create a New Gallery

#### When to Create a New Gallery

Create and pair a new gallery with a new preset any time you're managing a new standalone event. This helps keep each event distinct and organized.

* **Public Gallery**: Allows participants to browse and share photos from the specific event they attended, without mixing in photos from other events.
* **Private/Unlisted Gallery**: Facilitates easily sharing a single gallery link or downloaded copies with your client, avoiding the hassle of sorting pictures from various events.

**This is a good fit for:**

* Weddings
* Birthdays and private parties
* One-off corporate events
* Client events where photos should stay separated

***

#### Creating a new gallery

While creating a new preset, you will be prompted to link it to an online gallery.&#x20;

1. [Create your preset](/customization-guide), then advance to the gallery settings.&#x20;
   * The system will default to creating a new gallery using the same name as the preset.&#x20;
2. Before saving, you can update the gallery name (guests will see the gallery name) and choose a [privacy level](/gallery-design/basic-gallery-settings/gallery-privacy-options).
3. Save your preset & gallery pair, and advance to the [Layout Designer](/customization-guide/layout-designer/creating-layouts).


# Use an Existing Gallery

#### When to use an existing gallery

Reusing a gallery keeps related photos collected in one place. This makes it easier to run multiple presets or booths while keeping all photos together, both for participants and for managing your account.

Each preset sends its photos to the same gallery, even if layouts, graphics, or settings are different. This allows you to change the booth experience without splitting photos into multiple galleries.

**This is a good fit for:**

* Permanent installs
  * All your photos will be collected in the same place over time
* Venues running multiple booths at the same time
  * Venues can place booths in multiple high-traffic areas while keeping all photos in a single shared gallery.
* Ongoing activations or tours
* Multi-day or multi-location events
  * Tours or traveling activations can use a new preset for each date or city while collecting all photos in one gallery.

***

#### Reusing a gallery

When creating a new preset, you will be prompted to link it with an online gallery.&#x20;

1. [Create your preset](/customization-guide), then advance to the gallery settings.&#x20;
   * The system will default to creating a new gallery using the same name as the preset.&#x20;
2. Select the **Existing** tab
3. Use the dropdown menu to choose your gallery.&#x20;


# Copying Galleries

Duplicating a gallery allows you to carry over customizations from a previous event while still giving you a new gallery for a brand new event.&#x20;

**This is a good fit for:**

Users who prefer consistent settings across events, such as:&#x20;

* Color schemes
* Header images
* Ad configurations

***

#### How to Copy a Gallery

Galleries must be copied from your online dashboard; this action cannot be performed within the iPad app settings.

1. **Navigate to the** [**Gallery List**](https://app.simplebooth.com/galleries): View your list of existing galleries.
2. **Make the Copy**: Locate the gallery you want to copy, click the **Actions** dropdown menu on the top right-hand side, and select **Copy**.

The new gallery will appear in your list with "Copy" added to the title. We recommend renaming it immediately via the Actions menu to keep your events organized.

***

#### Pairing with a Preset

After copying a gallery, it is not automatically linked to any capture settings. To begin receiving photos from an event, you must pair it with a preset:

1. **Navigate to your** [**Presets page**](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets): Go to the Presets page in your dashboard.
2. **Select Your Preset**: Identify the preset you intend to use (or [create a new one](/customization-guide/basic-setup/create-a-preset/create-a-new-preset)).
3. **Change Gallery**: Click the **Actions** dropdown menu for that preset and select **Change Gallery**.
4. **Link the New Gallery**: Choose your newly copied gallery from the list.
   * **Manage Existing Photos**: If the preset has already been used for an event, you will be prompted to decide whether to move existing pictures to the new gallery or leave them where they are.
5. **Save**: Confirm your changes to complete the pairing.


# Gallery Customizations

You can customize the look and functionality of your gallery page to match your branding and control how guests interact with their images.

#### Customization Options

You can personalize several elements of your online gallery to enhance the guest experience:

* **Event Details**: Add a custom title and hashtag to your gallery page.
* **Custom Graphics**: Upload your own branding or event-specific graphics.
* **Privacy Levels**: Choose from three privacy settings to determine if guests can browse the entire gallery or only view their own photos.
* **Live Feed**: Enable a slideshow mode to display photos in real-time on the gallery page.

***

#### Dive Deeper

For detailed instructions on how to configure these settings, visit our [Gallery Designer section](https://docs.simplebooth.com/gallery-design/).


# Main Preset Settings

Once your preset and gallery are saved and paired, it's time to customize your settings. Adjust **preset settings** to control how your HALO booth looks and behaves during an event.&#x20;

[**Gallery settings**](https://docs.simplebooth.com/gallery-design/) are customized separately and let you adjust the experience participants have after they receive their photo link.&#x20;

***

#### General Settings

At the top of the preset settings is a General Settings section that includes your booth’s main configuration options.

Here, you can:

* Edit the preset name
* Change the linked gallery
* Choose a color scheme (dark or light)
* Select your [saving methods](/customization-guide/basic-setup/main-preset-settings/saving-methods)
* Enable or disable [touchless mode](/customization-guide/basic-setup/main-preset-settings/touchless-mode)

<figure><img src="/files/M2CbSmPhvXfNQnic8vIs" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

#### [Layout Designer](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview)

Your layout designer is also located at the top of the preset settings. Tapping into one of your layouts now opens a new full-screen editor where you’ll adjust layout settings, like adding borders, custom graphics, and more.&#x20;

<div data-with-frame="true"><figure><img src="/files/FmXxmtXbc0KxVH7rzZNE" alt="" width="563"><figcaption><p>Layout Designer</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

#### [Experience Designer](/customization-guide/experience-designer/experience-designer-overview)

The remainder of your preset settings customize the booth experience outside of the photo layouts. These are grouped under the Experience Designer section, organized into collapsible subsections:

* [**Pre-Capture**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture): Prompts participants see before taking their picture.
* [**Capture**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/capture): Settings related to capturing photos.
* **Post-Capture**: Interactions that happen after photos are taken.

<div data-with-frame="true"><figure><img src="/files/08MGmDXkdgaLJqSiOeCB" alt="" width="563"><figcaption><p>Experience Designer</p></figcaption></figure></div>

***

{% hint style="info" %}

## White Labeling

HALO is a co-branding experience with Simple Booth, your brand and if applicable, your client's or sponsor's brand.

We do not offer a full white-label version of our app. However, we offer options to make your brand prominent throughout the app and online experience.

Our highest tier plans support removing all Simple Booth branding aside from the gallery and picture links.
{% endhint %}


# Saving Methods

Photos always upload to your online gallery. From there, you can also save copies in different formats and locations for easy access, backup, printing, or delivery to a client or team.

This article explains:

* What file formats are available
* Where photos can be saved
* How to access downloads in each location

***

### Available File Formats

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Layouts" %}
The finished, branded photo exactly as it appears in your online gallery. This includes your overlays, margins, and any applied filters.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Individual Images" %}
We have a few types of individual images.&#x20;

**Raw Frames**

The individual photos that make up a layout, captured without any filters, digital props, or branding.

**Branded Frames**

Individual images that include your filters and overlays.

**GIF Frames**

The individual frames used to create GIF animations, including applied filters and graphics.

{% hint style="warning" %}
GIF and raw frames are not available for download if Green Screen, digital props, or the drawing feature were used during the event.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Formatted Sheets (Print-Ready)" %}
These are specifically formatted for re-printing outside of the Simple Booth app during or after events (available in 4x6" or 5x7").&#x20;

{% hint style="warning" %}
These must be enabled before your event begins and are only available via Dropbox saving.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

### Saving Locations

You can save photos to:

* Your Simple Booth account (always enabled)
* The iPad Photos app (optional, disabled by default)
* Dropbox (optional, disabled by default)

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Simple Booth Account" %}
All captures automatically upload to your Simple Booth account. This is the most reliable way to retrieve your media after an event has ended.

How to Download:

1. Sign in to your online dashboard and open your [**Gallery List**](https://app.simplebooth.com/galleries).
2. Find your gallery and click the **Actions** dropdown menu.
3. Select **Export Media**.
4. Choose your format (Layouts, Raw Frames, or GIF Frames).
5. You will receive an email with a download link once the ZIP file is ready.

{% hint style="info" %}
Privacy Note: By default, account downloads exclude "Private" pictures (where a user opted out of the public gallery). You can check a box during the export process to include these if you have the necessary permissions to handle that data.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Direct iPad Saving" %}
You can save copies of your photos directly to the iPad’s Photos app.

**How to Enable:**

1. Open your Preset settings and navigate to [**Save Options**](/customization-guide/basic-setup/main-preset-settings/saving-methods).
2. Toggle on Save to **Camera Roll**.
3. Choose whether to save Layouts, Individual Images, or both.

**Accessing Photos**

Images appear in the iPad [**Photos** **app**](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/photos/id1584215428) within a dedicated "Simple Booth" album and main library. If iCloud Photos is enabled, they will sync to your other Apple devices automatically.

{% hint style="info" %}
We do not recommend this for permanent installations or high-volume events, as it can quickly consume iPad storage and cause the app to crash.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Dropbox Saving" %}
The Dropbox integration automatically syncs files to your Dropbox account in real-time as they are taken. This is the only method that supports Formatted Sheets.

**How to Enable**

1. Open your Preset settings and navigate to [**Save Options**](/customization-guide/basic-setup/main-preset-settings/saving-methods).
2. Toggle on **Dropbox**.
3. **Crucial Step**: You must sign in to Dropbox directly within the HALO app on the iPad to authorize the connection.
4. Select which media types to sync (Layouts, Frames, or Formatted Sheets).

{% hint style="warning" %}
You can enable Dropbox saving from your online dashboard or in the app, but you must sign in to Dropbox directly within the app to complete the connection.
{% endhint %}

**Accessing Files**

Dropbox creates a specific folder structure for your event: `Apps / Simple Booth / [Preset Name] / [Media Type]`

To locate your files, open the Simple Booth folder and navigate to the preset folder from there.&#x20;
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}


# Touchless Mode

Run your booth in **Touchless Mode** to provide participants with a more hygienic, hands-free experience. This mode uses gesture-based controls and QR codes so guests can capture and receive their photos without ever touching the iPad screen.

***

#### Enabling Touchless Mode <a href="#h_314ae10ddb" id="h_314ae10ddb"></a>

Activating Touchless Mode is simple and can be done from your preset settings.

1. Go to your [**Presets** list](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets).
2. Select the preset you want to edit.
3. In the General Settings section at the top, enable Touchless Mode.

***

#### Participant Experience

In Touchless Mode, the standard "Tap to Start" screen is replaced with a gesture-guided interface.

* **Starting the Session**: Participants interact with the booth by holding up their palm to the camera. The app detects the gesture to trigger the countdown.
* **Reviewing Photos**: After the photo is taken, participants can use a hand gesture to choose whether to keep the photo or retake it.
* **Receiving the Photo**: At the end of the session, a unique QR code appears on the screen. Participants simply scan the code with their smartphone camera to open their photo in the online gallery.

***

#### Limitations and Unsupported Features <a href="#h_8481ade8c4" id="h_8481ade8c4"></a>

Because Touchless Mode is designed to eliminate all physical contact with the screen, certain features that require manual input or selection are disabled:

* [**Custom Start Screens**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/start-screen): The booth uses a specialized start screen to guide users through the hand gestures.
* [**Rear-Facing Camera**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/capture/camera-settings): Touchless Mode is only supported using the front-facing (selfie) camera.
* [**Age Gate**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/age-gate): This feature is disabled as it requires manual date entry.
* [**Multiple Layouts**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview): Only the first layout in your preset list will be used.
* [**Photo Editing**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools): Participants cannot apply filters, digital props, or "Glam" effects.
* [**Data Capture**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/data-capture): Forms requiring text entry (names, emails, etc.) are disabled.
* [**Sharing Options**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print): All sharing methods (Text, Email, Print) are disabled except for QR codes.
* [**Background Replacement**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/background-replacement): While background replacement still works, participants cannot choose between multiple backgrounds; the booth will automatically use the first background in your list.


# Layout Designer Overview

How to navigate the layout designer

The Layout Designer includes familiar tools from graphic editing programs.&#x20;

* Add, resize, reposition, and lock design elements, referred to as Layers (pictures, custom graphics, and more).&#x20;
* Customize layers for unique effects. Add borders, adjust opacity, and layer-specific settings for things like text&#x20;
* Import layers from other presets&#x20;

***

### Layout Designer Map

The Layout Designer has four main areas.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Main Tools" %}
Basic settings to save and adjust your layout are found at the top of the screen.&#x20;

* Undo or redo changes
* Close the layout editor (and discard changes)
* Save your layout

<figure><img src="/files/hTB3caWCZlf1kVwMRgup" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Canvas" %}
The Canvas is the main preview area where you see and arrange your layout. This is where you position photos, frames, text, and other design layers.

{% hint style="info" %}
When selected, a layer on the Canvas has context buttons to copy, lock, and delete the layer. You can also drag the layer to resize and position it on the Canvas.
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="/files/DDvWR8wtxNqfihpQTcgb" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Layer List" %}
The Layer List is the vertical toolbar used to add new layers, select existing ones, and control layer order.

<figure><img src="/files/5N3cKfaceoa9HgkItLRk" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Inspector Panel" %}
The Inspector Panel is on the right, where you can adjust settings for the selected layer or the layout itself. This includes things like size, background, and motion options.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/dI8c6eWg54xJFDk4L5Mr" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
Double tapping most of the tools in the Inspector will reset to default settings.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

### Layout Designer Settings

Customize the Layout Designer to match how you prefer to build layouts. These settings affect how the editor behaves while you’re designing, not how guests experience the booth.

At the top of the Layout Designer, open the settings menu to adjust the following options.&#x20;

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Preview Style" %}
Choose how photo frames appear while you’re designing.

* **Numbered frames** shows frame numbers only, which is helpful for precise layout work and multi-frame designs.
* **Image samples** displays placeholder images so you can preview composition and spacing.
* **Mixed view** combines numbers and image previews.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Layer Snapping" %}
Control how layers align when you drag, resize, or nudge them on the canvas. Snapping helps keep designs clean, centered, and evenly spaced without manual measuring.

Snapping applies when dragging layers and when using the nudge controls.

* **Snap to canvas:** Layers snap to the canvas center and edges.&#x20;
  * Best for centering logos, frames, or text within the overall design.
* **Snap to layers:** Layers snap to nearby layers as you move them.
  * Useful for lining up text, frames, and graphics relative to each other.
* **Snap to canvas and layers:** Layers snap to both the canvas and nearby layers, depending on position.
  * This is the most flexible option and works well for most layouts.
* **Disable snapping:** Turns off all snapping for freeform movement.
  * Helpful for fine adjustments or intentionally offset designs.

{% hint style="info" %}
If snapping feels too aggressive while placing a specific layer, temporarily disabling snapping can make precise positioning easier.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

### Video Guide

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/OHFoDy_mQXs?si=21zWEgR4Ej6v9TeW>" %}


# Creating Layouts

Layouts control how photos appear during capture and in the final output. You can create and edit layouts from both the app and the web dashboard.

{% hint style="info" %}
This article walks through creating a new layout, but you can always select an existing layout to edit a saved design.
{% endhint %}

***

## How to Create a Layout

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Open the Preset

Access your [**preset settings**](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets) and open the preset you want to customize.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Add a Layout

1. Under General settings, find the **Layout** section.
2. Tap or click the **Add Layout** or **plus button** to add a new layout.&#x20;
   * On the **Core plan & up**, multiple layouts can be added, allowing guests to choose their preferred layout before starting their session.

{% hint style="info" %}

## **Delete or duplicate layouts**

* **In-app**: Press and hold on a layout to duplicate or delete it.
* **Online**: Open the layout you want to manage. Then, select the three-dot menu in the top-right corner to duplicate or delete the layout.
  {% endhint %}
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Choose a Layout Type

Select the layout style that fits your event:

* Single-frame layouts & motion layouts
* Photo strips
* Grids
* Spotlight layouts

{% hint style="info" %}
Motion layouts such as GIFs, Rebound, and Video require a single-frame layout. Motion options are not available when multiple photo frames are used.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Adjust Basic Layout Settings

You can modify all basic settings even after the layout is saved.

* **Frame margins**: Controls the spacing between photo frames.
* **Frame aspect ratio**: Sets the crop for photos in the layout, such as square, portrait, or landscape.
* **Layout padding**: Adds extra blank space around the layout edges. You can adjust top, bottom, left, and right padding individually, or lock padding to adjust all sides evenly.&#x20;
* **Upload graphics:** Add a logo or overlay&#x20;
* **Background colors**: adjust the background colors
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Open the Layout Designer

Tap or click to continue into the main Layout Designer.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

<figure><img src="/files/7S1r4Y2yA6kfDnQpFCIb" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

### Layout-Wide Design Settings

Once inside the Layout Designer, settings are split between the overall layout and individual layers.

When no layers are selected on the canvas, the Inspector displays settings that apply to the entire layout.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Layout Size" %}
Define the overall canvas size for the layout.

Choose from common preset sizes or enter a custom size to set the working area for all frames and design layers.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Background Color" %}
Set the background color behind your layout margins using a color picker or hex code.

Both solid colors and gradients are supported.&#x20;
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Motion Choices" %}
Enable motion-based outputs such as GIFs, Rebound, or Video.

Motion options are only available when the layout contains a single photo frame.&#x20;

After enabling GIFs or Video, additional options appear:

* GIFs: Adjust the number of frames and playback speed
* Videos: Set the maximum video duration
* Rebound & Live GIFs cannot be configured&#x20;
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

When a layer is selected, the Inspector switches to settings for that specific layer. Each layer type is covered on its own page below.

***

{% hint style="info" %}

## Migrating Layouts (HALO 4.0 → 5.0)

If you are transitioning from HALO version 4.0 to HALO 5.0, you will be prompted to migrate existing layouts.

Any custom graphics saved to the previous layout will be carried into the new version.

When prompted:

* Choose a frame size (square, portrait, or landscape)
* The selected size applies to all frames in the layout
* Tap the checkmark to continue to the Layout Designer

**Presets cannot be launched in HALO 5.0 until the layout is migrated.**
{% endhint %}


# Adding Layers

Layouts are built from layers. Each layer adds a specific element to your design, such as a photo frame, text, graphic, or shape.

When you create a new layout, at least one capture frame layer is added automatically. If you migrate or duplicate a layout, you may already have additional layers saved.

You can add more layers at any time to customize your design. Layers can be stacked, resized, and repositioned on the canvas, and each layer has its own settings in the [**Inspector**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#inspector-panel).

Selecting a layer on the canvas opens its settings, where you can adjust its appearance, size, position, and behavior. When no layer is selected, the Inspector shows settings for the layout as a whole.

***

#### How to Add a Layer

Follow these steps to add new elements to your design:

1. Open the **Layout Designer**.
2. From the [**Layer List**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#layer-list), select the + button to view the layer options.
3. Select the layer you would like to add.

{% hint style="info" %}
How the app responds next depends on the layer you choose. Some layers are added immediately, while others may require additional setup, such as choosing a file from your computer or iPad.
{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="/files/oWb0Ig90e68GRBqEcW7t" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

#### Managing Layers

Once a layer is added, you can duplicate it to save time or lock it to prevent accidental changes while you work on other parts of your design.

1. Select the layer on your [**Canvas**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#canvas).
2. **To duplicate a layer**: Select the **duplicate icon** (two overlapping squares) to create an exact copy of the selected layer and its settings.
3. **To lock a layer**: Select the **lock icon**. When a layer is locked, it cannot be moved or resized until you unlock it

***

#### Layer Position & Size

Manually adjust a layer's size & position from the canvas by dragging or dropping, or use the [**Inspector**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#inspector-panel) or [**Layer List**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#layer-list) tools to make precise adjustments:

* **Quick Position**: Instantly align the layer to the center or edges of the canvas.
* **Nudge Controls**: Use the arrow buttons for small, precise adjustments.
* **Rotate**: Use the rotation slider or the +/- buttons to tilt your layer.
* **Layer Order:** Move a layer above or below other layers to control how elements overlap.
* **Scale to Fill**: Quickly scale the layer to fill the entire available layout area.

***

#### Deleting Layers

If you need to remove a layer from your canvas, follow these steps:

1. Select the layer on your [**Canvas**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#canvas).
2. If the layer is locked, select the **lock icon** to unlock it.
3. Select the **trash can icon** to delete the layer.
4. A confirmation message will appear. Select **Delete** to confirm or **Cancel** to keep the layer.


# Capture Frames

Capture frames define where photos appear in your layout. You can add up to six photo frames per layout. Each capture frame exists as its own layer, allowing you to position, resize, and style them independently.

***

#### Frame Arrangement & Order

The order of your capture frame layers is important for two reasons:

* **Visual Layering**: Move a frame above or below other layers (like graphics or overlays) to control how elements overlap.
* **Capture Sequence**: The order of the frames in your layer list determines the order in which photos are taken during the event.

***

#### Styling Your Frames

Use these settings to customize the look of your capture frames.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Untitled" %}
Choose an aspect ratio for your frame(s). \
\
Options include 9:16, 2:3, 3:4, 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, & 16:0.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Border & Radius" %}
Adjust the frame's outline and corner shape:

* **Border**: Set the width and color using a hex code or the color picker.
* **Radius**: Adjust the roundness of the corners. Note that changing the border radius will also change the shape of the photo captured within it.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Shadow" %}
Add depth to your design by offsetting a shadow behind the frame:

* **Color**: Choose a shadow color and opacity.
* **Blur**: Adjust how soft or sharp the shadow appears.
* **Offset**: Move the shadow's position relative to the frame.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Opacity" %}
Control the transparency of the capture frame. Lowering the opacity is useful for creating watermark effects or complex layered designs where background elements need to show through.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

#### Motion Choices

Motion settings are available when your layout contains **only one** capture frame.

{% hint style="info" %}
Motion choices are edited from the [layout-wide design settings](/customization-guide/layout-designer/creating-layouts#layout-wide-design-settings). They cannot be edited while an individual capture frame is selected.
{% endhint %}

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="GIF" %}
Select 2–6 frames with a customizable playback speed. The countdown resets before each individual photo is taken.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Live GIF" %}
A 6-frame, high-speed loop. The countdown only happens before the first frame, creating a result that feels like a short, burst-style video.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Rebound" %}
A short looping clip that plays forward and then backward, similar to an Instagram Boomerang.
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Video" %}
Capture 5–120 seconds of video with audio. This mode includes basic trim tools, though other [editing options](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools) are limited.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

**Still & Motion Capture**

:white\_check\_mark: All Plans

**Video Capture**

:white\_check\_mark: Core, Plus, Pro, Select

:x: Lite
{% endhint %}


# AI Effects

After your [AI Effect](https://app.simplebooth.com/ai-effects) has been [configured](/ai-effects/post-capture-ai-effects), it must be added to a layout within a [preset](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets) before it can be used by guests.

{% hint style="info" %}
If you generated the effect directly from within the Layout Designer, it is already applied to that specific layout.
{% endhint %}

***

#### How to Add an AI Effect to a Layout

Follow these steps to enable a saved effect for your event:

1. From your [preset list](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets), open the preset you want to customize.
2. In the **Layout** section of your settings, create a new layout or select an existing one.
3. In the [**Inspector**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#inspector-panel), select **Choose** to browse your saved effects or the public library.
   * You can also generate a new AI Effect from the layout designer.&#x20;
4. Select the effect you want to use and save your changes.
5. Generate **Layout Previews**. These act as "thumbnails" shown to guests before they take their picture so they know what style to expect.

***

#### Layout Previews

Layout previews are essential for helping guests choose their preferred look during an event and reducing your credit usage.

* **Automatic Generation:** A layout preview may already be generated for you depending on how the AI effect was initially created.
* **Preflight Check:** If any previews are missing when you are ready to launch, the Simple Booth app will prompt you to generate them during the preflight check.

{% hint style="info" %}
Generating layout previews is optional but highly recommended. Providing a visual example ensures guests understand the transformation that will occur after their photo is captured and can help reduce unnecessary credit usage.
{% endhint %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan availability**

✅ Core, Plus, Pro, Select&#x20;

❌ Lite
{% endhint %}


# Images

Image layers let you add logos, graphics, and other visual elements to your layout. You can add up to eight image layers per layout.

In the app, you can import images from the Files app, the Photos app, or Simple Booth’s theme browser. Online, you can upload images from your file browser, drag and drop files, or choose from available themes.

***

#### Adding and Replacing Images

Once an image layer is added, you can manage the source file directly from the [**Inspector**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#inspector-panel).

* **Image Source:** Tap the image preview in the Inspector to replace or swap in a different image at any time.
* **Canvas Controls:** When an image is selected, you can move, resize, copy, lock, or delete it directly on the Canvas.

***

#### Image Settings

Use these tabs to configure how your image fits and appears within the layout.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Content Mode" %}
Control how the image fits within its layer boundaries:

* **Fit:** Scales the entire image to fit inside the layer without cropping. This may leave empty space if the image’s aspect ratio doesn’t match the layer.
* **Fill:** Scales the image to completely fill the layer. Parts of the image may be cropped to maintain its aspect ratio. **Fill works best for most logos and graphics.**
* **Stretch:** Stretches the image to match the layer’s width and height. This can distort the image if the proportions are different.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Border & Radius" %}
Adjust the frame's outline and corner shape:

* **Border:** Set the width and color using a hex code or the color picker.
* **Radius:** Adjust the roundness of the corners.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Shadow" %}
Add depth to your design by offsetting a shadow behind the image:

* **Color:** Choose a shadow color and opacity.
* **Blur:** Adjust how soft or sharp the shadow appears.
* **Offset:** Move the shadow's position relative to the image.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Opacity" %}
Control the transparency of the image. Lowering the opacity is useful for creating watermark effects or subtle background elements.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan availability**

✅ All plans
{% endhint %}


# AI-Generated Images

Use AI to create graphic elements for your layout directly inside the **Layout Designer**. This feature helps you design items like logos, borders, and themed graphics without needing graphic design experience or starting from scratch.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** This feature creates graphics to *decorate* your layout; it does not change how the photo of the participant looks. If you want to transform the captured photo, see [Post-capture AI Effects](/ai-effects/post-capture-ai-effects).
{% endhint %}

***

### How to Create and Use AI Graphics

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Generate an Image

AI-generated graphics are created while managing layers within your layout.

1. Open your [Layout Designer](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets).
2. In the **Layer List**, add a new layer and choose **Generate with AI**.
3. **Enter a prompt:** Describe what you want to create. More detail generally produces better results.
4. **Choose a style:** Select a style from the dropdown (e.g., watercolor, photorealistic, cartoon, or pop art).
5. **Select an aspect ratio:**
   * For borders or full backgrounds, match your layout’s aspect ratio.
   * For elements like logos or stickers, any aspect ratio can work.
6. Click **Generate** and wait for the image to process.

*If the result isn’t what you expected, adjust your prompt or style and generate again until you are satisfied.*
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Add and Adjust Your Graphic

Once you have an image you like, you can finalize how it sits on your canvas:

1. **Remove the background (optional):** Use the background removal tool to create a transparent graphic.
2. **Add to layout:** Place the image onto your canvas.
3. **Resize and reposition:** Move the layer as needed.

AI-generated graphics behave like standard [image layers](/customization-guide/layout-designer/adding-layers/images) and can be adjusted, locked, or duplicated at any time.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

### Accessing Previously Generated Images

The Layout Designer stores a history of recently generated images within the AI generation settings, allowing you to:

* Reopen and reuse past designs.
* Edit and regenerate variations of previous prompts.
* Clear your generation history if needed.

These images are available across all layouts within a [preset](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets) and can be accessed when switching between different presets.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

✅ Core, Plus, Pro, Select

❌ Lite
{% endhint %}


# Text

Text layers allow you to add titles, captions, and custom messaging to your layout. Each text layer can be styled independently to match your event's branding.

***

### Customizing Your Text

Use the [**Inspector**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#inspector-panel) to define the appearance and behavior of your text.

#### Text & Font

* **Content:** Enter the text you want to display on your layout.
* **Font:** Choose from the available fonts to match your design style.
* **Alignment & Color:** Adjust the text alignment (left, center, or right) and set the text color using a hex code or the color picker.
* **Opacity:** Control the transparency of the text. This is useful for creating watermarks or making text feel more integrated with background graphics.

***

### Advanced Styling & Interaction

Use these settings in the Inspector to add more visual depth or enable guest interaction.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Background & Border" %}
**Background Color** Add a solid color or a gradient behind your text. For gradients, you can choose between:

* **Linear:** Colors blend in a straight line.
* **Radial:** Colors blend outward from a central point.

**Border & Radius**

* **Border:** Set a width and color to outline the text layer.
* **Radius:** Adjust the roundness of the background corners to create a button or label effect.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Shadow" %}
Add a shadow to create depth or make text pop against busy backgrounds:

* **Color:** Choose a shadow color and opacity.
* **Blur:** Adjust how soft or sharp the shadow appears.
* **Offset:** Move the shadow's position relative to the text.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Guest Editing" %}
**Allow or restrict** [**guest editing**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/guest-editable-text) **after capture.** When enabled, a text editing tool appears on the app's edit screen, allowing participants to type their own message or captions before saving their photo.

{% hint style="success" %}
Guest-editable text is available on **Plus** plans and higher.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

**Standard Text Layers**

✅ All Plans&#x20;

**Guest-Editable Text**

✅ Plus, Pro, Select

:x: Lite, Core
{% endhint %}


# QR Code

QR code layers let you add scannable codes directly to your layout. You can generate a QR code that links to any website or sends participants directly to their individual photos in your online gallery.

***

### QR Code Destination

Use the **Inspector** to choose where the QR code sends participants when scanned.

* **Custom URL:** Link to any website by entering a specific URL.
* **Upload:** Send participants directly to their photo in your Simple Booth online gallery. This is especially useful for printed photos, providing participants with a quick way to access and share their digital copy.

***

### Styling Your QR Code

Use these tabs to adjust how the QR code appears within your design.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Border" %}
Adjust the appearance of the QR layer's border:

* **Color:** Set the border color using a hex code or the color picker.
* **Width:** Adjust the thickness of the border outline.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Shadow" %}
Add a shadow to create depth or help the code stand out against a busy background:

* **Color:** Choose a shadow color and opacity.
* **Blur:** Adjust how soft or sharp the shadow appears.
* **Offset:** Move the shadow's position relative to the QR code.
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Opacity" %}
Control the transparency of the QR code. Lowering the opacity can help the code blend into your design more subtly, especially when placed over decorative elements or light backgrounds.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan availability**

✅ Core, Plus, Pro, Select&#x20;

❌ Lite
{% endhint %}


# Rectangle

Rectangle layers let you add simple shapes to your layout for design and structure. They are commonly used as backgrounds, dividers, or accents behind other elements like text and logos.

***

### Customizing Your Shape

Use the [**Inspector**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#inspector-panel) to define the color and transparency of your rectangle.

* **Fill Type:** Choose between a solid color or a gradient.
  * **Linear Gradient:** Colors blend in a straight line from one side to the other.
  * **Radial Gradient:** Colors blend outward from a central point.
* **Color Selection:** Set your colors using a hex code or the color picker.
* **Opacity:** Control the transparency of the rectangle. Adjusting opacity is helpful when you want to add structure or contrast without fully blocking background images or other design elements.

***

### Styling & Effects

Use these tabs to refine the look of your rectangle or create custom frames.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Border & Radius" %}
Adjust the outline and corner shape of your rectangle:

* **Border:** Set the width and color using a hex code or color picker.
* **Radius:** Adjust the roundness of the corners to create anything from sharp edges to soft, pill-shaped accents.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Tip:** To create a simple frame, set the rectangle’s fill color to fully transparent using the color picker, then add a border.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Shadow" %}
Add a shadow to create depth or visually separate the shape from the background:

* **Color:** Choose a shadow color and opacity.
* **Blur:** Adjust how soft or sharp the shadow appears.
* **Offset:** Move the shadow's position relative to the rectangle.
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan availability**

✅ All plans
{% endhint %}


# Importing Layers

Importing layers allows you to bring design elements from existing themes or layouts into your current design. This is an efficient way to reuse branding, graphics, or complex structures without rebuilding them from scratch.

Once imported, these elements function as standard layers that can be adjusted, repositioned, or replaced individually.

<figure><img src="/files/EzURG2rwCRliLSyEfzfu" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

#### Importing Theme Graphics

Simple Booth themes are pre-made graphic collections designed around popular holidays and occasions. When you import theme graphics, they can also be applied to your [**Tap to Start**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/start-screen) screen for a consistent visual experience.

1. Open the **Layout Designer** for the layout you want to edit.
2. Select the **+** button in the [**Layer List**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#layer-list).
3. Select **Add theme graphics**.
4. Use the theme browser to search for or browse available designs.
5. Select the theme and tap the **checkmark** to confirm.

All graphics from the theme will be added as separate layers, allowing you to move or resize them independently.

***

#### Importing From Other Layouts

You can pull specific layers from any [preset](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets) or layout you have previously created.

1. Open the **Layout Designer** for the layout you want to edit.
2. Select the **+** button in the [**Layer List**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview#layer-list).
3. Select **Import from other layouts**.
4. Browse your active presets and select the one containing the design you want to reuse.
5. Select the specific layout you wish to import from.
6. **Choose your layers:** Before finalizing the import, you can toggle off any specific layer types you do not want to include.

The chosen elements will be added to your current canvas as individual layers.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan availability**

✅ All plans
{% endhint %}


# Graphics Editing Program Recommendations

Simple Booth offers a wide range of built-in tools to customize your layouts directly within the app, often eliminating the need for external design software. However, if you want to create highly specific or elaborate branding, you can design your assets in a graphics editing program and import them into your settings.&#x20;

***

#### File Sizes and Dimensions

Most design programs will prompt you to select canvas dimensions in pixels as your first step. While your design can be created in any aspect ratio, the final file size must be **under 8MB** to be uploaded to your account.

Once you upload your graphic to your settings, you can further resize and position the file to fit your layout perfectly.&#x20;

***

#### Graphics Editing Programs

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Canva" %}
[Canva](https://www.canva.com) is a user-friendly, browser-based design tool with a drag-and-drop interface. It includes an extensive library of fonts, images, and stickers, making it an excellent choice for non-designers.

* Cost: Free to use. However, a paid plan is required to export files with transparent backgrounds (essential for overlays) and to access premium assets.
* Support: [Canva Tutorials](https://www.canva.com/design-school/courses/?lesson=opening-canva-for-the-first-time)
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Pixlr" %}
[Pixlr](https://www.pixlr.com) offers two distinct online editing tools depending on your skill level:

* **Pixlr Express**: A simplified, beginner-friendly tool for quick edits.
* **Pixlr Editor**: A more advanced editor with a layout similar to Adobe Photoshop.
* **Cost**: Free to use with daily export limits. Paid plans remove these limits and provide additional assets.
* **Support**: [Pixlr Support Center](https://pixlr.com/support/)
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Hire a Designer" %}
If you prefer to outsource your creative work, platforms like [Fiverr](https://www.fiverr.com), [Upwork](https://www.upwork.com), or [99designs](https://www.99designs.com) allow you to hire professional designers for one-off projects.

* **Cost**: Prices vary significantly based on complexity, typically ranging from $5 to $30+.
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

***

#### Video Editing Programs <a href="#h_65878eaa15" id="h_65878eaa15"></a>

To create or edit video-based graphics (such as those used for [custom start screens](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/start-screen)) you will need a dedicated video editor.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="OpenShot Video Editor" %}
[OpenShot](https://www.openshot.org) is an open-source, beginner-friendly video editor that works on most desktop operating systems. It includes built-in tutorials to help you learn the interface quickly.

* **Cost**: Free.
* **Support**: [OpenShot User Guide](https://www.openshot.org/user-guide/)
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Second Tab" %}
[iMovie](https://www.apple.com/imovie/) comes pre-installed on most Mac computers. It is a powerful tool for both basic and advanced video edits, though the interface may take a moment to learn for first-time users.

* **Cost**: Free for Mac users.
* **Support**: [iMovie User Guide](https://support.apple.com/imovie)
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}


# Experience Designer Overview

The Experience Designer is your hub for customizing the guest journey. While the Layout Designer focuses on the final photo output, the Experience Designer controls the booth’s interface and the overall flow of your event.

These settings manage the visual aesthetic of the booth and the interactive elements participants encounter, such as on-screen prompts, editing tools, and sharing methods. To make navigation easy, settings are organized into three sections based on when they appear in the guest experience.

Customize the experience from your [Preset](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets) settings.&#x20;

***

To make setup easier, settings are organized chronologically into three sections. Each section includes a set of cards, and each card customizes a different aspect of the experience.

#### [Pre-Capture](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture)

Focuses on the first impression, including the Tap to Start screen and any branding or prompts guests see before they begin.

#### [During Capture](/customization-guide/experience-designer/capture)

Controls the camera interface, countdowns, and on-screen guidance while photos are being taken.

#### [Post-Capture](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture)

Manages the post-capture experience, including editing tools and sharing methods.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/sZhZFEpPIm4KsJJU5KkW" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
The online gallery, where picture are sent after capture, is customized separately. [Learn more](https://docs.simplebooth.com/gallery-design/).
{% endhint %}


# Pre-Capture

Pre-capture settings control what participants see after they tap to start, but before photos are taken.

This includes screens and prompts that prepare participants for the session or ask them to make a selection before capture begins.

<figure><img src="/files/ovBUqORymgjIbdEkgVfk" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


# Start Screen

Between sessions, the app rests on a “tap to start” screen. The start screen tells participants how to begin and sets the visual tone for the booth.

You can use a default screen, apply a Simple Booth theme, or upload a custom graphic, depending on your plan.

***

### Default Start Screen

The default start screen displays a simple “tap to start” message so participants know how to begin their session.

***

### Themes

Themes are pre-made graphic designs created by Simple Booth. They include coordinated visuals for common holidays and occasions.

Themes can also be applied to [photo layouts](/customization-guide/layout-designer/adding-layers/importing-layers) for a consistent look across the entire experience.

#### **Add a Theme**

1. Open **Start Screen** settings card.
2. Select **Choose Theme** to open the theme browser.
3. Browse available themes and preview their start screen designs.
4. Save your selection. &#x20;

***

### Custom Start Screen

Upload a fully custom start screen for a unique look. Still frames or videos are supported.&#x20;

#### **Add a Custom Start Screen**

1. **Determine the correct size**: Open Start Screen settings in the app to see the required dimensions for your iPad model.\
   If you don't have your iPad, see the sizing note below.
2. **Create your design**: Design your start screen in a separate graphics program.\
   Be sure to include text instructing participants to tap the screen to start.
3. **Import your design**: Upload the finished graphic to the start screen card settings. &#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}

## Start screen sizing (if you don’t have your iPad)

1. Open [this page](https://support.apple.com/108043) from Apple's support center.
2. Find your iPad model.
3. Open the tech specs page for that model
4. In the Display section, locate the pixel resolution.
5. Use the resolution based on orientation:
   * **Landscape**: long side × short side (example: 2,752 × 2,064)
   * **Portrait**: short side × long side (example: 2,064 × 2,752)
     {% endhint %}

#### **File Requirements**

**Still-Frame Start Screens**

* **Max size**: 10MB
* **Format**: JPEG or PNG (PNG with transparency recommended)

**Video Start Screens**

* **Max size**: 20MB
* **Format**: MP4

If necessary, use [cloudconvert.com](https://cloudconvert.com) to convert files to MP4 or reduce size.

When compressing your MP4, select a **constant rate factor** — lower values mean higher quality; higher values compress more.

| Original File Size | Constant Rate Factor | Compressed Output |
| ------------------ | -------------------- | ----------------- |
| \~50 MB            | 25                   | \~18 MB           |
| \~100 MB           | 30                   | \~20 MB           |
| \~150 MB           | 35                   | \~17 MB           |

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

**Start Screen Themes**

:white\_check\_mark: All Plans

**Custom Start Screens**

:white\_check\_mark: Plus, Pro, Select

:x: Lite, Core
{% endhint %}


# AI Generated Start Screens

Feature coming soon!


# Age Gate

When age gate is enabled, participants will be prompted to select their birthdate before the booth session begins.

If they do not meet the age requirement, they will be blocked from continuing.

***

#### Enabling Age Gate <a href="#h_54025294e7" id="h_54025294e7"></a>

1. Open **Age Gate** settings card.
2. **Enter a custom prompt**: A short message (up to 280 characters) that participants will see when prompted.

* **Set a minimum age requirement**: the minimum age participants must meet to proceed.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

:white\_check\_mark: Select

:x: Lite, Core, Plus, Pro
{% endhint %}


# Background Replacement

Background replacement allows you to swap the environment behind your participants with custom digital images. You can achieve this using a traditional green screen or by utilizing AI-powered virtual replacement that requires no physical backdrop at all.

**Proper lighting is the most important factor for high-quality background removal.** Most aesthetic or quality issues are caused by uneven lighting, shadows, or poor backdrop positioning. Be sure to review our lighting and setup tips below.

***

### Choosing a Replacement Method

The best method for your event depends on your hardware and the environment where the booth will be set up.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Virtual Background Replacement (AI)" %}
Virtual replacement uses AI to remove the background without a physical screen, significantly reducing your setup time and equipment needs.

* **Live Preview:** For the best experience, use an iPad with an **A14 chip or newer**. These devices show a live preview of the replacement during capture and allow participants to choose their background before the countdown.
* **Older Devices:** On older iPads, the background is applied after the photo is taken. Participants will see the first background in your settings by default but can swap it during the editing phase.

**Recommended iPad Models for Live Preview:**

* iPad Air (4th generation or newer)
* iPad (10th generation)
* iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation or newer)
* iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation or newer)

{% hint style="info" %}
Virtual Background Replacement works best in controlled lighting with a simple, uncluttered background behind the subjects.\
\
Virtual Background Replacement does not work well with physical props or face coverings.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Green or Blue Screen" %}
A physical backdrop is recommended if:

* You are using an older iPad and want predictable, real-time results.
* Your event background is very busy or has uneven depth.
* Lighting conditions are difficult to control.
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

***

#### Enabling Background Replacement

1. Open the **Background Replacement** settings card.&#x20;
2. Toggle Background Replacement **on**.&#x20;
3. Select Green Screen, Blue Screen, or Virtual for your background type.&#x20;
4. You must upload at least one file. The feature will automatically disable if no file is present.

{% hint style="info" %}
If you upload multiple backgrounds, you can enable them as an [**Editing Tool**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools) in the Experience Designer to let participants change the look after they take their photo.
{% endhint %}

***

#### Background File Sizing

For the best results, your background image dimensions should match your [**capture frame**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/adding-layers/capture-frames) aspect ratio.

***

#### Event Setup & Lighting

* **Use Even Lighting:** Aim for a strong, consistent light source. [HALO lighting](https://buy.simplebooth.com/) is highly recommended for professional results, but [other light sources](https://www.simplebooth.com/blog/best-photo-booth-lighting-setups/) can work well too.&#x20;
* **Avoid Shadows:** Position lights to reduce harsh shadows behind the subjects, as these can confuse the removal software.&#x20;
  * If you're using a backdrop, secure it with clamps to remove folds and eliminate shadows or bright spots
* **Exposure Balance:** Adjust your light brightness and the app’s camera exposure together. Avoid over-exposure, which can cause "glow" or "bleeding" around the edges of the participant.
* **Fill Lighting:** If the room is dimly lit, consider adding small fill lights on either side of the booth to better define the subjects.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

✅ Core, Plus, Pro, Select&#x20;

❌ Lite
{% endhint %}


# Capture

Capture settings control what happens when participants take photos. These settings let you fine-tune the camera behavior, on-screen prompts, timing, and visual effects to match your event flow and setup.

Use this section to adjust how photos are captured before guests receive their images.

<figure><img src="/files/e54yC6Gv68UUMwt4ZlZ6" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


# Camera Settings

Select which camera your booth will use. While the iPad’s built-in cameras are the most common choice, you can also integrate a DSLR for enhanced photo quality.

***

#### Camera Choices

Choose the camera hardware that best fits your event's goals and physical setup.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="iPad Camera" %}
Using the iPad's built-in cameras is the simplest setup and provides a reliable experience for guests.

* **Front Camera (Recommended):** Most setups use the front-facing (selfie) camera so guests can see themselves in the live preview and interact with the screen naturally.
* **Rear Camera:** The rear camera can be used for specialty setups where the iPad is not guest-facing or if you have a staff member operating the booth.
* **Field of View:**
  * **Normal:** The standard focal length for iPad photos.
  * **Wide:** Provides a larger field of view to capture more of the background or larger groups. \
    *Note: This is only supported on certain iPad models.*

{% hint style="info" %}
Other [camera settings](/running-your-event/preparing-for-events/camera-and-screen-settings), such as exposure and white balance, can be adjusted in the app after you launch the booth.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="DSLR Camera" %}
You can integrate a DSLR camera to achieve professional, high-quality photos with shallow depth of field or better low-light performance.

* **Compatibility:** This feature is supported on select Canon DSLR models.
* **Requirements:** Using a DSLR requires additional equipment, including specific cables and mounting hardware.
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

***

#### iPad Camera Setup

While you can adjust camera settings in your [**online dashboard**](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets), we strongly recommend testing these settings on the iPad physically during your event setup to ensure the alignment and field of view match your backdrop.

1. Open the **Camera** settings card.&#x20;
2. Toggle between the **Front** and **Rear** camera.
3. Select between **Normal** and **Wide** field of view (if supported by your device).

***

#### DSLR Setup

To ensure a stable connection, the DSLR must be configured directly on the iPad. This allows the app to establish a handshake with the camera hardware properly.&#x20;

Find detailed, step-by-step connection instructions in our [**DSLR Guide**](/hardware-and-gear/dslr/equipment-and-settings).

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan availability**

**iPad Camera**

✅ All Plans&#x20;

**DSLR Integration**

✅ Core, Plus, Pro, Select

:x: Lite
{% endhint %}


# Get Ready Prompt

The Get Ready Prompt appears immediately before the countdown begins to help participants understand what they are about to capture and how they should pose.

It displays after a participant selects Tap to Start (and after any other [pre-capture](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture) selections), acting as a final "heads up" before the camera starts rolling.

***

#### How the Get Ready Prompt Works

The message displayed is automatically tailored to the specific capture type the guest selects:&#x20;

* **Photo Layouts:** “Get ready for a photo” or “Get ready for # photo(s)”
* **Video Layouts:** “Get ready to make a video”
* **Rebound Layouts:** “Get ready to move”
* **GIF Layouts:** “Get ready to make a GIF”

***

#### Enabling the Get Ready Prompt

You can choose whether to include this step in your guest journey within the Experience Designer.

1. Open the **Get Ready Prompt** settings card.&#x20;
2. **Toggle On/Off:** Use the switch in your settings to enable or disable the prompt. Disabling it will take guests directly from the Start screen (or pre-capture selections) into the countdown.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

✅ All Plans
{% endhint %}


# Countdown Settings

Adjust the timing and on-screen behavior during photo capture so participants know when a photo is about to be taken and have time to prepare.&#x20;

***

#### Capture Timing

Control how much time guests have to pose before the camera fires.

* **Countdown Seconds**: A visible countdown shown on the screen (1-10 seconds). This helps participants know exactly when the camera will fire and applies between every frame in multi-photo layouts.
* **Pre-Delay Seconds**: A hidden countdown that runs only before the first frame (0-10 seconds). This gives participants extra time to get into position before the visible countdown and capture sequence begin.

***

#### Layout Preview

Layout Preview changes what the participant sees on the screen while their photos are being taken.

* **When Enabled**: Participants see a live preview of the full layout during capture. This is helpful if your design includes graphics, frames, or text that overlap the photo area, as it allows guests to position themselves so their faces aren't covered by design elements.
* **When Disabled**: Each frame is captured individually, and the full layout is only shown once all frames in the sequence are finished.

***

#### Adjusting Countdown Settings

Follow these steps to customize your capture flow:

1. Open the **Countdown** settings card in your [Experience Designer](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets).
2. Adjust the **Countdown** or **Delay** seconds to your preference.
3. Toggle **Layout Preview** on or off.
4. Save your changes.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

✅ All Plans
{% endhint %}


# Frame Effects

Frame effects allow you to customize the visual style of your photos by applying filters, skin-smoothing effects, or background blurring.

{% hint style="info" %}

* **Global Settings:** Any settings applied here will affect all capture frames across every layout in your [preset](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets).&#x20;
* **Post-Capture Edits**: You can also enable these effects as an [editing tool](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools) to let guests make their own adjustments.
  {% endhint %}

***

#### Effect Options

Use these tabs to explore the different ways you can enhance your captures.&#x20;

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Color Filter" %}
Set a default color filter to give your event a specific mood or aesthetic.

* **Selection:** Choose from 19 different color filters.
* **Intensity:** Adjust the filter strength from 0–100% to find the perfect balance.

{% hint style="info" %}
Test filters with your specific event lighting in advance to see which options look best before your event goes live.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Glam" %}
Apply a beautifying filter designed to smooth skin textures, wrinkles, and blemishes for a polished "red carpet" look.

* **Glam:** Optimized for lighter skin tones.
* **Glam More:** Optimized for darker skin tones.

{% hint style="info" %}
You can set a default style and strength, but we recommend enabling Glam as a [post-capture editing tool](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools) so participants can choose the style that best suits them.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Background Blur" %}
Focus the attention on your guests by blurring the background of the photo.

* **Manual Blur:** Set a fixed blur intensity that applies the same amount of softening to every photo.
* **Auto Blur:** Uses AI to detect the environment and automatically applies the optimal amount of blur based on the depth of the scene.
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Color Filters and Glam are enabled by default on all new presets.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

***

#### Configuring Frame Effects

1. Open the **Frame Effects** settings card in your [Experience Designer](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets).
2. Select the effect you wish to apply (Color Filter, Glam, or Background Blur).
3. Adjust the intensity or select the specific style.
4. If you want guests to have control, ensure these are also toggled "on" in your [**Editing Tools**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools) section.
5. Save your changes.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

#### Plan Availability

**Color Filters & Glam**

✅ All Plans

**Background Blur**

✅ Core, Plus, Pro, Select\
❌ Lite
{% endhint %}


# Post-Capture

Post-capture settings control what happens after photos are taken.&#x20;

This includes how participants review and edit their photos, whether they'll see the gallery-opt in or data collection, how photos are delivered or printed, and what they see at the end of the experience.

<figure><img src="/files/hMoRkdUgm8nAdmA0wX7q" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


# Edit Tools

After capturing their photos, participants are taken to an editing screen where they can personalize their results before proceeding to save and share. This step allows guests to refine their images.

If multiple edit tools are enabled, guests can choose between them at the bottom of the. edit screen. If only one edit tool is enabled, it will be automatically selected when the participant advances from capture to edit.&#x20;

***

#### Customizing the Editing Screen

You can enable or disable individual edit tools based on your event's needs. Follow these steps to set up your interface:

1. Open the **Edit Tools** settings card in the Experience Designer.
2. **Select the feature name** in the menu to open each individual feature's configuration settings.
3. **Toggle Tools:** Use the switches to select exactly which features you want to offer your guests.
4. **Rearrange Order:** You can customize the order in which these tools appear to guests by dragging and dropping them directly within the Simple Booth app settings on your iPad.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Mandatory Screen**

The edit page cannot be bypassed. A **Retake** button is always visible, giving participants the option to start over if they are unhappy with their capture.
{% endhint %}

***

#### Available Edit Tools

* [Background Blur](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/background-blur)
* [Background Replacement](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/background-replacement)
* [Drawing](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/drawing)
* [Filters](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/filters)
* [Glam](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/glam)
* [Digital Props](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/digital-props)
* [Stickers](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/stickers)

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

Certain edit tools are only available on higher tiers.&#x20;
{% endhint %}


# Background Blur

When [**Background Blur**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/capture/frame-effects#background-blur) is enabled as an editing tool, participants can adjust the blur intensity themselves during the post-capture phase. This allows them to create a professional "bokeh" look that keeps the focus entirely on the subjects.

***

#### How it Works

You can choose to use Background Blur as a [**default frame effect**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/capture/frame-effects#background-blur), an **interactive edit tool**, or **both**.&#x20;

When enabled as an Edit Tool, guests use a slider on the iPad to manually increase or decrease the amount of background softening after their photo is taken.

***

#### Configuration Settings

1. **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn the Background Blur tool on or off for your guests.
2. **Manual vs. Auto:** Decide how the blur is applied.&#x20;
   * **Manual** allows participants to adjust the intensity themselves using an on-screen slider.
   * **Auto** lets the software intelligently detect the environment and apply the optimal amount of blur automatically.
3. **Previewing:** Within the settings card, you can view a preview of how the blur effect functions to see how it will look for your guests.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

#### Plan Availability

✅ Core, Plus, Pro, Select\
❌ Lite
{% endhint %}


# Background Replacement

Swap the environment behind your participants with custom digital images. When enabled as a participant editing tool, background replacement allows guests to switch their background after capture if they change their mind.

***

#### How it Works

1. **Enable Pre-Capture**: Background replacement must first be enabled as a [pre-capture effect](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/background-replacement) before it can be used as an edit tool. Multiple backgrounds must be saved to your preset.&#x20;
2. **Initial Selection**: If you have multiple backgrounds available, guests are prompted to select their favorite before the countdown begins.&#x20;
3. **Capture**: The photo is taken and the initial background choice is applied.
4. **Post-Capture Swap**: If a guest changes their mind after seeing the result, they can use the edit tool to swap in a different background instantly —  no need to retake the photo.

***

#### Configuration Settings

* **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn the background replacement tool on or off.&#x20;
* **Available Backgrounds**: All backgrounds saved to your [pre-capture settings](/customization-guide/experience-designer/pre-capture/background-replacement) will be available for participants to select.&#x20;

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

✅ Core, Plus, Pro, Select\
❌ Lite
{% endhint %}


# Drawing

The drawing tool allows participants to add freehand doodles and handwritten messages directly onto their photos, adding a highly personal and creative touch to their capture.

***

#### How it Works

When guests select the drawing tool, this opens an interactive canvas where they can use a finger or an Apple Pencil to sketch directly onto the layout.

The drawing tool will allow them to:&#x20;

* **Choose Colors:** Select from the custom color palette you’ve curated for the event.
* **Adjust Pen Weight:** Change the thickness of the drawing line for fine details or bold strokes.
* **Adjust Opacity:** Change the transparency of the brushstrokes, allowing for both bold, solid lines and subtle, layered effects.
* **Correct Mistakes:** Use the **Undo/Redo** buttons or the **Eraser** tool to refine their artwork before saving.

***

#### Configuration Settings

1. **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn the Drawing tool on or off for your guests.
2. **Prompt:** Enter a call-to-action (up to 100 characters) to guide your guests, such as "Sign your name!" or "Draw a funny hat!"
3. **Color Palette:** Choose which colors are available for guests to use.
   * **Remove Colors:** Click or tap an existing color in the list to remove it.
   * **Add Colors:** Use the **+** button to add new colors using a hex code or the color picker. This is a great way to ensure the drawing tools match your event’s specific branding.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

✅ Pro, Select\
❌ Lite, Core, Plus
{% endhint %}


# Guest Editable Text

When enabled, the text editing tool lets guests add their names, handle, or a personalized message to their photo before sharing.

***

#### How it Works

Unlike other edit tools, this feature is controlled entirely by your [layout design](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview) rather than a manual "on" switch in the [Experience Designer](/customization-guide/experience-designer/experience-designer-overview). The tool activates itself the moment the app detects a text layer that has been configured for guest editing.

* **Interaction:** When guests reach the edit screen, they can select the text tool and tap directly on the field to bring up the keyboard.
* **Personalization:** Participants can type their own names, slogans, or messages to make the photo unique.
* **Auto-Scaling:** If a guest's message exceeds the constraints of your predefined text field, the text will automatically shrink to ensure it stays within the set boundaries.

***

#### Configuration Settings

Since this tool is linked directly to your layout, you must set it up within the [**Layout Designer**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/layout-designer-overview):

1. **Add a** [**Text Layer**](/customization-guide/layout-designer/adding-layers/text)**:** Create a new text layer or select an existing one on your canvas.
2. **Toggle Guest Editing On:** Within that specific layer’s settings in the Inspector, switch the "Guest Editing" toggle to **On**.
3. **Automatic Activation:** The text setting will now automatically enable itself.&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}
There are no separate configuration settings in the Edit card. To ensure a smooth experience, customize the **placeholder text** in your layout settings to guide guests (e.g., "Type your name").
{% endhint %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

:white\_check\_mark: Plus, Pro, Select

:x: Lite, Core
{% endhint %}


# Filters

Editable filters give guests the freedom to choose an aesthetic that best suits their photo, whether it's a classic black and white or a vibrant, high-contrast look.

***

#### How it Works

When enabled as an Edit Tool, participants can browse a list of filters on the editing screen and select one to apply to their full layout.

Filters can also be enabled as a default [**Frame Effect**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/capture/frame-effects). The photo will be captured with the default filter initially, and if the edit tool is enabled, the guest can then change it to something else.

***

#### Configuration Settings

1. **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn the Filters tool on or off for your guests.
2. **Filter Selection:** Choose which filters to display from the 19 available options. You can choose to show the entire library or limit the list to a small, curated selection that fits your event aesthetic.
3. **Reordering:** Drag and drop the filters to change the order in which they are presented to guests.

{% hint style="info" %}
Always test your filter selection with your specific event lighting in advance. Some filters may react differently to warm or cool light sources.
{% endhint %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

✅ All Plans
{% endhint %}


# Glam

Glam is a beautifying filter designed to intelligently smooth skin textures, wrinkles, and blemishes.&#x20;

***

#### How it Works

The Glam filter is versatile and can be utilized in two ways:

* **As an Edit Tool:** This is the most popular choice. It puts the power in the guest's hands, allowing them to choose their preferred style and adjust the intensity of the smoothing effect using a slider.
* **As a** [**Frame Effect**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/capture/frame-effects#glam)**:** You can set Glam as a default in the Frame Effects section so it is applied automatically the moment the photo is captured.

{% hint style="info" %}

#### **Give Guests Control**&#x20;

If you choose to set a default Glam frame effect, we strongly recommend also enabling it as an edit tool. Because beautifying filters are a matter of personal preference, this allows guests to start with your "base" level and then adjust it up, down, or off entirely to suit their own style.
{% endhint %}

***

#### Configuration Settings

* **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn the Glam tool on or off for your guests.
* **Preview Styles:** The settings card allows you to preview the two styles available to guests. Note that the specific intensity is controlled by the participant on the iPad.
  * **Glam:** Optimized for lighter skin tones.
  * **Glam More:** Optimized for darker skin tones.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

✅ All Plans
{% endhint %}


# Digital Props

Digital props are a fun, digital alternative to a traditional physical prop table. Using face detection technology, these items automatically size and position themselves on participants’ faces, ensuring a perfect fit without any manual effort from the guest.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Props vs. Stickers**&#x20;

If you are looking for items that participants can manually drag, resize, or place anywhere on the photo (like a sticker), see our guide on [**Custom Stickers**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/stickers).
{% endhint %}

***

#### How it Works

The props tool uses face detection to remove the guesswork from decorating photos. Because the software understands the positioning of facial features, it can anchor props exactly where they belong.

* **Single Participant:** If only one face is detected, the prop is automatically placed in the correct position (e.g., a hat on the head or glasses over the eyes) the moment it is selected.
* **Multiple Participants:** If multiple faces are detected, the guest first selects the prop they want to use and then taps the specific person in the photo they wish to add it to.
* **Removing Props:** Guests can easily change their look by using the **Undo** button or by tapping the prop again to remove it from the canvas.

***

#### Configuration Settings

* **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn the Props tool on or off.
* **Pre-Made Prop Packs:** Choose from over 100 themed props organized into packs (e.g., Party, Wedding, Seasonal).
  * **Mix and Match:** You can enable entire packs or pick and choose individual props from different themes to create a custom collection.
  * **Selection:** Click or tap individual props to add/remove them.
* **Custom Props:** You can import your own branded or themed graphics and configure them to work with our face detection.
  * To learn how to set up your own assets, see our [Custom Prop Guide](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/digital-props/custom-props).

***

{% hint style="success" %}

#### Plan Availability

**Pre-Made Props**

✅ All plans

**Custom Props**

✅ Plus, Pro, Select

❌ Lite, Core
{% endhint %}


# Custom Props

Add fully custom props to use instead of, or alongside, pre-made prop packs. This allows you to bring branded elements, event-specific themes, or unique accessories to the experience.

***

### How to Create Custom Props

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Design Your Props

Import your files after they’re already designed. Custom props are not created or edited within Simple Booth.

* **Format:** PNG with transparency (required).
* **Suggested size:** \~800 × 800 px.
* **Max file size:** 1 MB.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Create a Prop Pack

Keep custom props organized by grouping them into prop packs.

1. Open the [**Prop Manager**](https://www.simplebooth.com/manage-content/packs).
2. Tap the blue **+ icon** to create a new pack.
3. **Name your pack** to begin the uploading process.
   {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Upload Props

Add graphics to your custom prop pack.

1. Open the specific prop pack you want to add to.
2. Click **Choose files** to upload your graphics.
3. Uploaded files appear under **Pending** until they’re sized and placed.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Pending props are not saved until they are fully configured in the next step.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Configure Props

Size and position each prop before saving it so the face detection knows where to place it.

1. Select a pending prop and click **Next**.
2. **Name the prop** and **choose a type** (e.g., eyes, head, or mouth). The type determines where the prop is anchored (Glasses → eyes, Beard → mouth).
3. **Adjust the scale** to ensure a proper fit on the face.
4. **Set the layer order** to determine if the item sits in front of or behind other props.
5. Click **Save**. You can click the **X** next to any prop to remove it from the pack.
   {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Test

To ensure you are happy with the sizing and placement of your custom props, be sure to test them and adjust as needed before your event.&#x20;
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

### Using Custom Props

Once your custom pack is created and configured, you can use it just like any built-in [prop pack](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/digital-props):

1. **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch in the **Props** edit tool settings to turn the tool on for your guests.
2. In the props editor, your custom packs will appear alongside Simple Booth’s pre-made options.
3. Select your custom pack (or specific items within it) to make them available for your event.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Management Tip**&#x20;

You can manage your packs from the [Prop Manager](https://www.simplebooth.com/manage-content/packs) at any time to rename packs, set a default icon, copy, archive, or delete them.
{% endhint %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

#### Plan Availability

✅ Plus, Pro, Select\
❌ Lite, Core
{% endhint %}


# Stickers

Stickers are a flexible way for guests to decorate their photos. Unlike [digital props](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools/digital-props), which use face detection to anchor to specific facial features, stickers can be manually dragged, dropped, and resized anywhere on the canvas. This gives participants complete creative control over where they place their flair.

***

#### How it Works

After choosing the prop tool, participants can:&#x20;

* **Add Stickers:** Participants tap any sticker from your library to add it to the layout.
* **Sticker Adjustments:** Once a sticker is on the layout, guests can use their finger to move, resize, or rotate the image.&#x20;
* **Delete:** If a guest changes their mind, they can select the sticker and tap the delete icon to remove it from the canvas.

***

#### Configuration Settings

1. **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn the Stickers tool on or off.&#x20;
2. **Design Your Stickers:** Your graphics must be designed before uploading, as stickers cannot be created or edited within Simple Booth.
   * **Format:** PNG with transparency (required).
   * **Suggested size:** \~800 × 800 px.
   * **Max file size:** 1 MB.
3. **Upload Stickers:** Add your finished graphics to your settings via the online dashboard.
   * *Note: Stickers cannot be uploaded directly within the iPad app at this time.*

***

{% hint style="success" %}

#### Plan Availability

✅ Plus, Pro, Select\
❌ Lite, Core
{% endhint %}


# Gallery Opt-In

The **Gallery Opt-In** card acts as a status indicator to help you understand whether guests will be asked if they want their photo added to your public event gallery.

Whether this prompt appears during a guest's session is determined entirely by your [**Gallery Privacy Level**](/gallery-design/basic-gallery-settings/gallery-privacy-options)**.**

***

#### How it Works

Participants start the session and take their photos. They then advance to an edit screen where they can retake their picture or apply optional edit tools. Once they advance off the edit screen, the app checks your gallery's privacy level to determine whether to show the Opt-In Prompt before taking participants to the sharing page.&#x20;

| Gallery Privacy Level  | Opt-In Prompt Visibility                                                                                          | Picture Visibility                                                                                                                                                    |
| ---------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Public or Unlisted** | The opt-in prompt is presented after [editing](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/edit-tools). | <p><strong>Opt-In:</strong> the photo is visible in the gallery.  </p><p><strong>Opt-Out</strong>: The photo uploads but remains hidden from the public gallery. </p> |
| **Private**            | The opt-in prompt is not shown.                                                                                   | All photos are automatically and permanently marked as private and will never appear in a public-facing gallery.                                                      |

{% hint style="warning" %}
You can view & [download](https://docs.simplebooth.com/sharing-photos) all picture taken at your event regardless of the privacy status, as long as you are signed into your Simple Booth account.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

***

#### Configuring the Opt-In

The Gallery Opt-In card in the Experience Designer is a **visual representation only**. You cannot toggle the prompt on or off directly from this section of the settings.

To change whether the opt-in is displayed, you must adjust the privacy settings of the gallery linked to your preset:

1. Navigate to the [**General Settings**](/customization-guide/basic-setup/main-preset-settings#general-settings) section of your preset settings.
2. Find the paired gallery and use the **Actions** dropdown menu to choose the **edit** option.&#x20;
3. Adjust the [**Privacy**](/gallery-design/basic-gallery-settings/gallery-privacy-options) setting to Public, Unlisted, or Private.
4. The Gallery Opt-In card in your Experience Designer will update to reflect this change.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

✅ All Plans
{% endhint %}


# Data Capture

Data capture allows you to collect participant information before photos are delivered. You control exactly what information is gathered and whether completing the form is optional or required for guests to receive their photos.

Data capture appears near the end of the participant journey as part of the sharing flow. You can [access your data](https://docs.simplebooth.com/running-your-event/after-events/data-and-analytics#data-capture) from your Simple Booth account or via on of our&#x20;

{% hint style="danger" %}
**If data capture is disabled during an event, participant information cannot be recovered for those sessions.** Always double-check that data capture is enabled and your fields are active before your event begins.
{% endhint %}

***

#### How it Works

Data capture acts as a required or optional step between the editing process and the final delivery of the photo.

* **The Transition:** After a guest advances from editing their photo (or opting into your gallery), they are directed to your custom form before they can reach the sharing options.
* **Information Gathering:** The form displays the specific fields you have enabled, such as name, email, or custom questions.
* **Automatic Sharing:** By submitting contact information on the form, participants will automatically receive their media via that channel. When they advance to the final sharing page, they can use any other sharing methods you have enabled.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Keep it Short**&#x20;

To maintain a high completion rate and keep the line moving, only ask for essential information. Guests are much more likely to complete a form with 2–3 fields than a lengthy questionnaire.
{% endhint %}

***

#### Configuring Data Capture

1. **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch in the **Data Capture** settings card to turn on the tool.&#x20;
2. **Add Standard Fields:** Check the boxes for the information you wish to collect (e.g., Email, Name, Phone).
3. **Add Custom Fields (Select Plan Only):** If you need specific information, click "Add Custom Field" to create your own questions or legal disclaimers.
4. **Set as** [**Optional or Required**](#optional-vs.-required-data-capture)**:** Configure your [**Send & Print**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print) settings to determine if guests can skip this step (see details below).

***

#### Available Fields

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Standard Fields" %}
These can be enabled or disabled via checkbox from either the app or your online dashboard:

* Email address
* First & Last name
* Phone number
* Postal code
* Date of birth
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Custom Fields" %}
Custom fields allow for tailored questions and must be configured in the online dashboard.

* **Text fields:** For typed responses.
* **Checkboxes:** For simple "yes/no" or selection questions.
* **Required checkboxes:** Must be checked before the form can be submitted.
* **Custom legal terms:** Add your own Terms of Service or Privacy Policy directly to the form.

{% hint style="success" %}
Select Plan Only
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

***

#### Optional vs. Required Data Capture

You can control whether the form is a suggestion or a requirement by adjusting your **Send & Print** settings.

* **Optional:** Enable one or more sharing options (like Email or Text) in the [**Send & Print**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print) settings. Guests will see a "Skip" button; if they skip, they will simply enter their contact info on the next screen to get their photo.
* **Required:** Disable all sharing options in the **Send & Print** settings. This makes the data capture form mandatory—guests must complete it to receive their photo.

{% hint style="info" %}
Collecting data from every session is never guaranteed.&#x20;

If a guest does not wish to share their personal information, they can choose to discard their photo. Alternatively, if a guest walks away without completing the form, the app will eventually time out and reset to the start screen for the next participant.
{% endhint %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

**Standard Fields**

:white\_check\_mark: Pro, Select

:x: Lite, Core, Plus

**Custom Fields**

:white\_check\_mark: Select

:x: Lite, Core, Plus, Pro
{% endhint %}


# Mailchimp Integration

The Mailchimp integration automatically syncs [data collected](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/data-capture) from participants during your event directly to a selected Mailchimp audience. It is an excellent, beginner-friendly CRM (customer relationship management) tool that requires no technical setup to get started.

***

### Connect Your Mailchimp Account

Before you can enable the sync for a specific event, you must link your [Mailchimp account](https://admin.mailchimp.com/) to your Simple Booth account. You can connect multiple Mailchimp accounts if you manage different clients or audiences.

1. From your [**dashboard**](https://app.simplebooth.com/), click your avatar in the top-right corner.
2. Select **Manage Account**, then open the [**Integrations**](https://www.simplebooth.com/integration-settings) tab.
3. Click **Connect Mailchimp** and follow the prompts to log in and authorize the connection.

***

### Enable Mailchimp for a Preset

Once your account is connected, you must enable the integration individually for each [preset](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets) you want to sync data from.

1. Open the [preset](https://app.simplebooth.com/presets) you plan to use.&#x20;
2. Scroll down to the [**Data Capture**](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/data-capture) card in the **Experience Designer**. Ensure Data Capture is enabled to see the integration options.
3. From the Data Capture card, select:
   * The specific **Mailchimp account** you wish to use.
   * The **Mailchimp audience** where you want the participant data to be sent.

***

### Syncable Fields & Birthday Setup

You can sync any[ standard Data Capture fields](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/data-capture#standard-fields) (Email, Name, Phone, etc.) to your audience. Birthd**ays** require a specific configuration within Mailchimp to sync correctly.

#### Configuring Birthdays in Mailchimp

If you do not complete these steps in [Mailchimp](https://admin.mailchimp.com/), birthdate data will not be recorded in your audience list.

1. Open your Mailchimp **Audience**.
2. Open the **Settings** dropdown and select **Audience fields and |MERGE| tags**.
3. Scroll to the **Birthday** field settings and confirm the following:
   * **Field Label:** Must be exactly `BIRTHDAY` (all caps).
   * **Format:** Must be set to `MM/DD`.

<figure><img src="/files/bylg8jsuJ7ypurJy04cU" alt="" width="375"><figcaption><p>Mailchimp audience settings for syncing birthdays</p></figcaption></figure>

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

✅ Pro, Select&#x20;

❌ Lite, Core, Plus
{% endhint %}


# Open API Integration

The API integration works in conjunction with [Data Capture](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/data-capture) to collect information from participants and deliver it directly to your own server, database, or CRM.

This option is intended for custom marketing or specialized data workflows. Because it involves connecting Simple Booth to external systems, it requires development resources to implement.

***

#### How it Works

Once configured, the API integration removes the need for manual data exports and ensures your lead generation or marketing workflows stay updated throughout your event.

After a participant submits their information via the Data Capture form, the API automatically triggers a request to your server. This transfer happens in the background, so the guest experience is uninterrupted while your database or CRM is updated in near real-time.

***

#### API Setup

To begin integrating your data capture with your own internal systems, follow the setup steps in our [**API Tokens guide**](https://docs.simplebooth.com/account-management/account-management/api-tokens#creating-an-api-token).

{% hint style="info" %}
The API is designed for technical users. If you do not have a developer and need a more "plug-and-play" solution, consider using our [Mailchimp](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/data-capture/mailchimp-integration) integration instead.
{% endhint %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

✅ Pro, Select&#x20;

❌ Lite, Core, Plus
{% endhint %}


# Send & Print

The **Send & Print** card controls the guest experience at the end of a session.&#x20;

As the host, you decide which sharing methods are available. All digital options include a direct link to the participant’s photo in your gallery.

***

#### How it Works

At the end of their session, participants are prompted to choose how they would like to receive their digital copies or physical prints.

***

#### Available Sharing Options by Plan

Sharing methods and the ability to customize outgoing messages vary depending on your plan. Only the options you enable will appear on the iPad for your guests.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Lite" %}

* QR code
* Email
* Text message (SMS, US only)
* WhatsApp (messages sent from Simple Booth’s business account)
* AirDrop
* Printing

{% hint style="info" %}
**Message Customization**

Outgoing messages via WhatsApp, Email, and SMS use a default message: *"Your photo from Simple Booth!"* This message cannot be changed on the Lite plan.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Core" %}

* QR code
* Email
* Text message (SMS, US only)
* WhatsApp (messages sent from Simple Booth’s business account)
* AirDrop
* Printing

{% hint style="info" %}
**Message Customization**

Outgoing messages via WhatsApp, Email, and SMS use a default message: *"Your photo from Simple Booth!"* This message cannot be changed on the Core plan.
{% endhint %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Plus" %}

* QR code
* Email ([template-based customization](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/email-customization#basic-customization-plus))
* Text message (SMS, US only, [template-based customization](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/text-message-customization#basic-customization-plus-plan))
* WhatsApp ([photo credit customization](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/whatsapp-customization))
* AirDrop
* Printing
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Pro" %}

* QR code
* Email ([fully customizable](https://docs.simplebooth.com/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/email-customization#advanced-customization-pro-and-select))
* Text message (SMS, international, [fully customizable](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/text-message-customization#advanced-customization))
* MMS ([fully customizable](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/text-message-customization#advanced-customization))
* WhatsApp ([photo credit customization](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/whatsapp-customization))
* AirDrop
* Printing
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Select" %}

* QR code
* Email ([fully customizable](https://docs.simplebooth.com/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/email-customization#advanced-customization-pro-and-select))
* Text message (SMS, international, [fully customizable](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/text-message-customization#advanced-customization))
* MMS ([fully customizable](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/text-message-customization#advanced-customization))
* WhatsApp ([photo credit customization](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/whatsapp-customization))
* AirDrop
* Printing
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

***

#### Configuring Sharing Options

1. **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn each individual sharing tool on or off for your guests.
2. **Access Individual Settings:** When a sharing option supports customization (available on Plus, Pro, and Select), click on the feature name in the menu to open its specific configuration settings.

You can configure settings for the following tools:

* [Text message](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/text-message-customization) (SMS and MMS)
* [Email](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/email-customization)
* [WhatsApp](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/whatsapp-customization)
* [Printing](/hardware-and-gear/printing/formatting-prints)

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## **Plan Availability**

✅ All Plans

The extent to which you can customize messages that accompany photo links varies by plan.&#x20;
{% endhint %}


# Text Message Customization

You can control the text message that accompanies participant photo links, allowing you to personalize the guest experience or highlight event sponsors.&#x20;

***

#### Configuration Settings

1. **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn the Text Message tool on or off for your guests.
2. **Access Customization:** Select the **Text message** feature name to open the configuration settings.
3. **Save Changes:** Ensure you save your preset after making edits to your message content.

***

#### Customization Levels

The level of customization available depends on your plan.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Default Messaging (Lite & Core)" %}
On Lite and Core plans, messages cannot be customized. Guests will receive the default message: *"Your photo from Simple Booth!"*
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Basic Customization (Plus)" %}
Basic customization uses a fixed message template. You can edit the **photo credit** field to reflect your brand or event name.

* **Message Preview:** `Your photo from [photo credit] https://smplbth.co/123456`
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Advanced Customization (Pro & Select)" %}
Advanced customization gives you full control over the message content. You can write your own copy from scratch without being tied to a template.

* **Character Limit:** Up to 109 characters.
* **Compatibility:** Your custom message will apply to both SMS and MMS deliveries.
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

:white\_check\_mark: Pro, Select: advanced customization

:white\_check\_mark: Plus: basic customization

:x: Lite, Core: no customization. Default Simple Booth message.&#x20;
{% endhint %}


# Email Customization

You can personalize the email that accompanies participant photo links to match your brand or event theme.&#x20;

***

### Configuration Settings

1. **Toggle Enable:** Use the switch to turn the Email tool on or off for your guests.
2. **Access Customization:** Click on the **Email** feature name in the menu to open the configuration settings.
3. **Save Changes:** Be sure to save your preset after editing your email content.

***

### Customization Levels

The level of customization available depends on your plan.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Default Messaging (Lite & Core)" %}
On Lite and Core plans, messages cannot be customized. Guests will receive the default message: *"Your photo from Simple Booth!"*
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Basic Customization (Plus)" %}
Basic customization uses a professionally designed, prewritten template. You can customize two specific fields to personalize the message:

* **Photo Credit:** The name of the person or organization providing the booth.
* **Event Name:** The name of your specific event.

#### **Basic Message Preview**&#x20;

Subject

> Your photo from \[photo credit] is ready

Body

> Thanks for taking your photo at \[event name]. We hope you enjoyed the photo booth! \
> <https://smplbth.co/123456>
> {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Advanced Customization (Pro & Select)" %}
Advanced customization gives you full creative control over the email's appearance and delivery details. Learn more about customizing these settings below.&#x20;

* **Sender Address:** Choose the "From" address guests see. If a guest replies to the email, it will be sent to this address.
* **Subject Line:** Write a custom subject line.
* **Email Body:** Fully edit the message content. By default, emails are sent as plain text, but you can use **HTML** to create a fully branded layout with images and buttons.
  {% endtab %}
  {% endtabs %}

***

### Advanced Customization Settings

#### Custom Sender Address

Send emails from your own company domain instead of a Simple Booth address.&#x20;

* **Authorization Required:** To do this, you must [authorize Simple Booth](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print/email-customization/email-address-customization) to send emails on behalf of your domain by updating records with your domain registrar.
* **Public Domains:** Note that public domains (such as `@gmail.com` or `@icloud.com`) **do not** support this type of authorization. You must own the domain to use a custom sender address.

***

#### HTML & Placeholders

Use HTML to further customize your message. You can use placeholders (like the photo link) to ensure each guest receives their unique content within your custom design.

If you aren't an expert in HTML, you can use AI tools or external resources like [Designmodo](https://designmodo.com/) [W3Schools](https://www.w3schools.com/Html/) to help write your code, then simply paste it into the email body field.

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="Placeholders" %}
Placeholders allow you to dynamically insert content into your email, such as:

* A thumbnail of the participant’s photo
* A button that links to the gallery

| Placeholder       | Usage Example                                                                                                                 | Usage                                                                                                                                                                                   |
| ----------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| `[thumbnail-url]` | \<img src="\[thumbnail-url]">                                                                                                 | Links to a thumbnail representation of the media that can be displayed in the email body.                                                                                               |
| `[gallery-url]`   | Looking for another \[media-type]? \<a href="\[gallery-url]'>View the full gallery                                            | Links to the Gallery that contains all the event media. Does not work with private Galleries.                                                                                           |
| `[page-url]`      | <p>\<a href="\[page-url]">View your\[media-type]\</a><br></p><p>\<a href="\[page-url]">\<img src="\[thumbnail-url]">\</a></p> | A link to the guest's picture page on the Gallery. When used, this will replace the default, "View your photo" link so you can create your own call-to-acton or custom designed button. |
| `[media-type]`    | "Thanks for capturing a \[media-type] at the event!"                                                                          | Word or phrase describing the type of picture your guest captured, such as "GIF" or "photo."                                                                                            |
| {% endtab %}      |                                                                                                                               |                                                                                                                                                                                         |

{% tab title="Tag pairs" %}
Text entered between tag pairs is modified based on the tag used.

The tag pair determines how the text is displayed or formatted.

| HTML Tag Pair                                                   |                                                                 |
| --------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------- |
| <p>\<h1> ... \</h1><br>\<h2> ... \</h2><br>\<h3> ... \</h3></p> | Header or title text. 1 is very large, 2 is large, 3 is medium. |
| \<b> ... \</b>                                                  | Bold text                                                       |
| \<i> ... \</i>                                                  | Italicized text                                                 |
| \<u> ... \</u>                                                  | Underlined text                                                 |
| \<p> ... \</p>                                                  | Paragraph breaks                                                |
| \<br> ... \</br>                                                | Line breaks                                                     |
| {% endtab %}                                                    |                                                                 |
| {% endtabs %}                                                   |                                                                 |

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

:white\_check\_mark: Pro, Select: advanced customization

:white\_check\_mark: Plus: basic customization

:x: Lite, Core: no customization. Default SB message.&#x20;
{% endhint %}


# Email Address Customization

On advanced plans, you can customize the "From" email address used to send picture links to your guests. This allows you to maintain consistent branding and ensures that any replies from guests go directly to your inbox.

While this requires a one-time setup with your domain registrar or IT department, it provides a more professional experience for your participants.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Public Domain Restriction**&#x20;

Public email domains (e.g., `@gmail.com`, `@icloud.com`, `@yahoo.com`) **do not** support this type of authorization. You must own a private domain (e.g., `@yourcompany.com`) to use this feature.
{% endhint %}

***

### Overview & Preparation

To use a custom sender address, you must authorize Simple Booth to send emails on your behalf. This is done by adding a [**Sender Policy Framework**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sender_Policy_Framework) **(SPF)** record to your DNS settings.

* **Timeline:** DNS changes can take up to **24 hours** to propagate across the internet. Please plan your setup at least one day before your event.
* **Access:** You will need access to your domain registrar (e.g., GoDaddy, Google Domains, Namecheap) or the ability to submit a request to your IT department.

***

### Configuration Steps

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Login to your domain registrar's dashboard and locate your **DNS Management** settings. You will need to add or edit a **TXT record** for your SPF.

**If you do not already have an SPF record:** Create a new TXT record and paste the following value: `v=spf1 a:mail.simplebooth.com ?all`
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Important:** A domain can only have **one** SPF record. Adding multiple SPF records will cause your emails to fail.

If you already have an SPF record, you must combine the rules into a single line.

* **Existing Google Record:** `v=spf1 mx include:_spf.google.com ~all`
* **Incorrect (Two Records):** `v=spf1 mx include:_spf.google.com ~all` `v=spf1 a:mail.simplebooth.com ?all`
* **Correct (Combined Record):** `v=spf1 mx include:_spf.google.com a:mail.simplebooth.com ~all`
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}
Once your DNS is configured:

1. Open the [Email Settings](/customization-guide/experience-designer/post-capture/send-and-print) within your preset in the Experience Designer.
2. Replace `no-reply@simplebooth.com` with your desired custom email address.
3. **Save** your changes.

If the DNS settings have synced correctly, you will see a success message. If they haven't processed yet, you will see a warning, and emails will default to `no-reply@simplebooth.com` until the setup is validated.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

### Troubleshooting

If your custom address is not validating after 24 hours, you can verify your SPF record using an external tool like **MXToolbox**:

1. Go to an SPF Record Lookup tool.
2. Enter your domain and click the lookup button.
3. Check the results for the following:
   * **Prefix:** `+`
   * **Type:** `a`
   * **Value:** `mail.simplebooth.com`
   * **SPF Multiple Records:** Ensure this shows that "less than two records" were found.

<figure><img src="/files/TQ2WX2eNkohhSaOcOZQC" alt="" width="375"><figcaption><p>SPF Lookup Help</p></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="info" %}
**Working with IT Departments**&#x20;

If your organization has a dedicated IT department, they likely manage a complex SPF record. Instead of editing it yourself, send them a request to **whitelist `mail.simplebooth.com`** within your domain's SPF record.
{% endhint %}

***

{% hint style="success" %}

## Plan Availability

:white\_check\_mark: Pro, Select

:x: Lite, Core, Plus
{% endhint %}




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