Crestmont Capital Blog

Leasing Photo Booths and Portable Bars

Written by Mariela Merino | August 20, 2025

Leasing Photo Booths and Portable Bars

Event planners, wedding vendors, and rental companies know that photo booths and portable bars are among the most in-demand add-ons for weddings, parties, and corporate functions. But buying this equipment outright can be expensive, with professional photo booths costing $5,000–$15,000+ and portable bar setups ranging from $2,000–$10,000 each.

That’s where leasing options come in—allowing you to expand your offerings without the heavy upfront investment.

Why Lease Instead of Buy?

Leasing photo booths and portable bars offers several advantages:

  • Lower Upfront Costs – Avoid large cash outlays while still accessing premium equipment.

  • Upgrade Flexibility – Technology and styles change; leasing makes it easier to refresh your inventory.

  • Tax Advantages – Lease payments may be deductible as business expenses.

  • Improved Cash Flow – Keep more money available for marketing, staffing, and other growth needs.

  • Test Before Owning – See how well certain booth or bar models rent before committing to full ownership.

Leasing Options Available

1. Photo Booth Leasing

Modern photo booths often include touchscreens, cameras, printers, and even social media integration. Leasing packages usually cover:

  • Enclosed or open-air booths

  • 360-degree video booths

  • Props and backdrops

  • Software and support

2. Portable Bar Leasing

Portable bars add value at weddings, corporate events, and parties. Leasing can include:

  • LED-lit bar counters

  • Folding portable bars

  • Beverage dispensers and coolers

  • Custom branding options

Cost Example

If a rental company wants to add:

  • 2 photo booths ($8,000 each) = $16,000

  • 3 portable bars ($3,500 each) = $10,500

Total Investment: $26,500

With a 3-year lease at 7% interest, the monthly payment would be around $820.

Considering that photo booths often rent for $600–$1,200 per event and portable bars for $250–$500, even a few rentals per month could cover the lease payment.

Tips for Leasing Success

✔ Choose equipment that fits current event trends (e.g., 360° video booths, LED-lit bars).
✔ Work with leasing providers familiar with the events industry.
✔ Factor in maintenance and support costs in your agreement.
✔ Bundle multiple items into one lease to negotiate better terms.
✔ Track ROI closely to know when it makes sense to buy out your lease.

Final Thoughts

Leasing photo booths and portable bars is a smart strategy for event businesses looking to expand without overextending finances. With manageable monthly payments and the ability to upgrade as trends change, leasing gives you the flexibility to grow your offerings and meet client demands profitably.