Fotoautomat
Photograph: Fotoautomat/Instagram
Photograph: Fotoautomat/Instagram

The best photo booths and studios in Singapore

Say cheese! Take your Instagram feed to the next level with these game-changing photo opportunities

Cam Khalid
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A scroll down Instagram, and you’d notice that film photography is making a comeback. Whether these images are captured on film cameras or edited on photo apps, there’s no denying that people are after the vintage vibe

But there’s something special about hugging nostalgia, stepping into the colourful world of pixels and poses, and seeing your snaps in print. It’s about having physical documentation that stray from the typical aesthetic.

That’s why photo booths and studios are embracing fresh, offbeat ways to freeze time. From the trendy black-and-white self studios that put you in control to throwback-inspired settings and old-school photo booths that channel the spirit of days gone by.

Whether you’re a natural in front of the lens or a little camera shy, there’s a photo booth or studio for you to get papped in.

RECOMMENDED: 10 colourful spots in Singapore for Instagram and the best photogenic hotels in Singapore

Best photo booths in Singapore

  • Things to do
  • City Hall

For the Neoprint alternative

Once upon a time, Neoprints were all the rage. With a personalisation feature, it’s basically a playful and whimsical version of the traditional photo strip. But if you’re too young to remember, you’re in luck. Dollop Print Club has revived the purikura (Japanese sticker photo booth) at various locations including Suntec City, SingPost Centre, Harbourfront Centre. Don't sleep on the themed pop-up booths at National Museum of Singapore and Jurong Point too – they’re super kawaii. Unlike the old machines, these hassle-free ones also have cashless payments and print out two photo strips in less than a minute!

  • Things to do
  • Kallang

For a vintage strip

Watching a cult classic at The Projector? While you’re there, slip into Singapore’s only analogue photochemical booth to mark the occasion. The 1980s US-import is armed with a snazzy shutter release that throws beams of light onto special paper that’s all about soaking those picture-perfect moments. Sounds complex, but it’s totally easy to use. Relive the old-school way where you’ll have to insert coins to start the camera. Once the green light goes red, it’s time to strike a pose. All shots are final and the film strip takes about four minutes to develop. To quote a Star Wars film (The Return of the Jedi, to be exact): "Patience, my friend."

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  • Things to do
  • City Hall

For a slice of Seoul

Get papped like you're straight outta Seoul at Life4Cut. Not your average photo booth, this South Korean snap shack is located in its very own store. One step inside and you’ll find a wonderland of bright backdrops, costumes, props, and accessories to amp up the fun. It also features limited-edition themed frames where you can pose alongside your favourite K-pop stars. Previous groups include Seventee, Aespa and Ive. Besides print copies, you also get to keep soft copies and gif videos – perfect for posting on the ‘gram too.

  • Things to do
  • Rochor

For a pet-friendly booth

Similar to Life4Cut, this South Korean-inspired self-photo studio is tucked in its very own store. Its photo booths also occasionally set up shop at various places such as Bedok Town Square, AMK Hub and Cineleisure for a limited time period. But unlike its K-photo booth counterpart, it bears a minimalist vibe – great if you’re looking for a clean aesthetic. To jazz it up, there are fun headbands, sunglasses and accessories to play around with. And if your messy tresses need a quick fix, there are complementary tools like hair dryers and straighteners that'll do the trick. Fur-babies are also allowed in this pet-friendly booth for a unique family snap.

Best photo studios in Singapore

  • Art
  • Photography
  • Geylang

For the old-school charm

Rarer than a can of dandelion and burdock, this photo studio specialises in wet-plate photography, a historical image-making technique that dates back to the 1850s. Yes, even before our grandparents’ time. Starting from $200, each session takes about an hour, and comes with a behind-the-scenes peek into the studio's darkroom. Pro tip: you’re getting dolled up before heading down, avoid putting on make-up with SPF protection. The compound, which absorbs UV light, may affect how your image turns out. Find out more about this stunning two-storeyed shophouse studio in our interview with founder Ryan Lee.

  • Things to do
  • Chinatown

For monochrome magic

Priding itself as “Singapore’s first self black and white photo studio,” Fotomat is great for fans of the timeless effect as well as those who are a little camera shy. You have full creative control as the power of the shutter clicker is in your hands. You don’t have to wait too long for your printed photos, either. Each $30 package includes a solid 15-minutes of unadulterated photo-clicking frenzy for two people, and you get to walk out with not one, but deux beautifully printed photographs from your sesh. Now that’s a sweet deal.

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  • Things to do
  • Geylang

For a time warp back to the 80s

You’ve probably stumbled upon this novelty photo studio of your FYP on Tik Tok. Looking like something straight outta the 80s, the studio is decked out with DIY hand-painted props like a giant koi fish and mega shoutao buns, and rad blue walls. There are also plenty of props for you and your crew to play around with. Each session takes about 45 minutes long, with 30 minutes of pure pose galore, followed by 15 minutes of making those hard-to-choose photo selections (trust us, they’re all that good). Say Chunkie! is definitely giving nostalgia on steroids, and we’re loving every neon second!

  • Things to do
  • City Hall

For playful props 

Who doesn't like to play pretend? Squeeze into the iconic Squid Game tracksuit and strike a pose at this photo wonderland. Prepare to be spoilt for choice with Photomatic’s five private rooms, each with different colour schemes to set the mood for the shoot. It also provides a wide array of costumes and props for you to spice things up. Once you're all set, snap yourself silly in the 15-minute session, all with a click of a button on a handheld remote control. If your pics need that extra zing, edit them with a post-session retouch. Pro tip: take a quick snap against the vibrant archway – it's a sure way to pop your feed.

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