When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Self-Portrait Project
Why The Self-Portrait Project is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Self-Portrait Project is an award-winning photo booth company based in New York City that offers an innovative and empowering photography experience perfect for meeting up with friends. The company’s patented system uses a two-way mirror that functions both as a reflective surface and a camera lens, enabling participants to control their own portrait session with a remote trigger. This interactive approach allows guests to see themselves as they pose, choosing exactly when and how to capture their image, resulting in beautiful, studio-quality photographs instantly available for sharing. Founded in 2009 by Andy Lin, a National Geographic Traveler award-winning photographer, the project is rooted in social justice ideals and cultural curiosity, setting it apart from traditional photo booths by connecting photography with self-expression and empowerment. Its stylish and tactile open-air setup complements events from weddings and corporate gatherings to brand activations and private parties, making it a sophisticated and engaging way to spend time with friends. The Self-Portrait Project offers not only fun and creativity but also meaningful engagement by giving the power of portraiture back to the individual, making it an inspiring spot for social interactions and memorable moments.
Here's what people think of The Self-Portrait Project
As of recent, The Self-Portrait Project holds a 5-star rating based on 136 reviews.
Reviews of The Self-Portrait Project reveal a strong consensus of satisfaction, earning it a perfect 5.0 rating from over 130 reviewers. Customers frequently praise the uniqueness of the experience, highlighting the empowering dynamic of the two-way mirror photo booth that allows them to take full control of their portraits. Many appreciate the studio-quality results and the instant availability of photos on their mobile devices. Positive reviews also mention the professional and friendly on-site operators, the aesthetic appeal of the booth’s design, and how well it integrates into various social events like weddings and corporate parties. On the other hand, the few less favorable comments tend to focus on minor logistical issues such as wait times during very busy events or desires for additional customization options, but these are generally overshadowed by the overwhelmingly positive feedback. Overall, reviews conclude that The Self-Portrait Project creates a fun, interactive, and empowering atmosphere that delivers a memorable and high-quality photography experience, making it a highly recommended choice for social gatherings and special occasions.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Maymunah Issabre
I’m absolutely so grateful I took advantage of this free pop-up! Even though the wait was almost two hours, it was completely worth it because once inside you can take as many photos as you’d like. The person that was in on 08/19 deserves so much credit, they were so patient and the absolute sweetest, holding down the fort all on their own yesterday. Such an amazing experience!
Jeffrey Leonard
I’ve been to two Self-Portrait Project installations, and it’s hands down one of the coolest and most interactive art experiences I’ve ever had. Each booth is a work of art in itself, totally unique and clearly designed with intention. I’ve followed their Instagram for years, and it’s amazing how every setup feels tailored to its environment, encouraging you to play around with this unexpected thing you just found hiding in plain sight. The photos you take are about self-representation, but the experience is surprisingly communal. You step into the booth thinking it’s just about you, but it quickly becomes a space of shared discovery and connection. Strangers gather to figure out what’s so fascinating, conversations spark, and then there’s this rare energy where people are just organically engaging with one another.
Erin Ly
Alys at The Self-Portrait Project is very welcoming and informative of the entire process. Although queuing for lines can get out of hand, it was pretty calm here. I was unable to stay long the first two times during the work week, but each time I lined up, I got to meet cool new friends! Maybe you’ll be crazy enough to line up three times like me. Bring a book, catch up on a podcast/ new music releases, or talk about life with others. I say it’s worth it. You get what you put into the process. Trust that the camera angles and lighting have been figured out by the amazing team here. Hone in on your emotions. Have fun!
Colin Murphy
We had a vendor fall through last minute and needed to re-book a Photo Booth and thank god we did because Andy and Self Portrait Project was a dream! This was the coolest and most unique experience and our guests absolutely loved it! The team was so helpful and able walk even the older guests through how to join in on the fun. Everyone left saying they never felt more stunning than in those pictures! Thank you team at Self Portrait Project! You made our night!!
Evonne and Stephen
We had Self Portrait Project at our NYC wedding in May 2025. We cannot say enough good things about the entire experience. Andy was extremely communicative and accommodating, he sent someone on his team on our final venue walk through to scout the location and set up, and the day of attendant was high energy and made the entire experience so elevated. We had a black and white portrait booth and the entire set up was extremely polished. As soon as the guests saw the quality of the portraits, everyone went nuts over it. All the guests took home many portraits of themselves with their friends, and we simply cannot wait for the next occasion to work with SPP again.
How to reach The Self-Portrait Project
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Why The Self-Portrait Project may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Self-Portrait Project with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at The Self-Portrait Project offers a uniquely engaging and memorable experience that goes far beyond the typical outing. This place is not just another photo booth; it's an interactive, art-driven experience that places the power of portraiture directly in your hands. Unlike traditional photo booths that rely on tired, overused props and produce typical snapshots, The Self-Portrait Project allows each participant to actively engage with the camera, controlling the moment and capturing genuine expressions that reflect their personality and mood. This level of control over your own image fosters a sense of empowerment, creativity, and self-awareness that is rare in casual social settings. Plus, the high studio-quality lighting and carefully chosen backdrops ensure that every picture taken is stunning, making the experience feel like a VIP event. Friends can share laughs, pose spontaneously or thoughtfully, and leave with digital keepsakes that instantly shuttle the fun to social media or personal archives. All of this creates an atmosphere of connection, celebration, and fun that's perfect for strengthening friendships and commemorating moments together. The fact that this experience has earned a flawless 5.0 rating from over 130 satisfied reviewers attests to its widespread appeal and exceptional quality.
What activities can you enjoy at The Self-Portrait Project?
At The Self-Portrait Project, the main activity revolves around a revolutionary photo booth system that is both an art installation and a state-of-the-art photographic tool. Guests interact with a full-length mirror rig equipped with a remote trigger, allowing them to take their own portraits with professional lighting and backdrops. This setup encourages creativity — you can take anything from solo glamorous selfies to fun group shots of up to twenty people. The remote trigger on the ground gives participants total control over shutter timing, which leads to relaxed, authentic images. Additionally, the experience is enhanced by an onsite professional operator who assists with lighting and backdrop adjustments to ensure every photo looks its best. Beyond just taking pictures, this participatory format turns guests into both photographer and model, empowering them to explore and express their identities through images. The photos are instantly available for download and sharing, making it seamless to capture and spread the joy of the moment. Many users report spending hours enjoying the photo booth because the experience is that engaging and versatile, offering an endless range of photographic possibilities from silly to sentimental.
Why is The Self-Portrait Project perfect for group meetups?
The Self-Portrait Project is an ideal venue for groups because it fosters interaction, creativity, and shared memories like no other photo booth rental can. Its setup enables everyone — no matter their photography skills — to participate actively in the image-making process, removing the usual awkwardness of posed photos. Groups create fun, dynamic portraits that capture genuine relationships and personalities, providing a perfect icebreaker and a source of entertainment throughout the event. The mirrored camera and remote trigger invite participants to experiment with poses and expressions, making the process playful and engaging. Plus, the backdrop and lighting options are customizable to fit any occasion, from casual hangouts to formal celebrations, such as weddings or milestone parties. The quality of the images is so high that groups often find themselves revisiting the photos long after the event, reliving shared moments in vivid detail. This capability to turn a simple meetup into a creative group activity full of laughter and shared joy is what makes The Self-Portrait Project a standout choice for anyone looking to host a memorable gathering.
How does The Self-Portrait Project enhance social connection and fun?
Social connection is at the heart of The Self-Portrait Project’s experience. By turning the act of taking photos into a collaborative and self-directed activity, it naturally encourages people to communicate, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company. The empowering nature of controlling your own image makes people feel more comfortable and expressive, which translates into photos full of life and authenticity. Because the booth supports a wide range of group sizes and configurations, whether it’s a pair of friends or a large family reunion, it accommodates and celebrates the diversity of social interactions. The presence of a helpful operator ensures everyone feels guided without pressure, contributing to a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Participants frequently describe the experience as “the best photobooth ever,” highlighting how it energizes the party and generates positive energy that ripples through attendees. The immediate access to stunning digital photos also boosts social sharing and creativity, letting friends collectively celebrate their unique style and moments with ease.
What makes the photography and technology at The Self-Portrait Project superior?
The Self-Portrait Project’s technology differentiates it significantly from typical event photo booths. The mirror itself functions as a camera, with integrated high-quality lighting and automatic backstage adjustments that highlight subjects beautifully. The patented system was created by Andy Lin, a National Geographic Traveler award-winning photographer with a deep understanding of narrative and empowerment through image-making. This ensures that each photo captures not only visual clarity but also emotional depth and personal authenticity. Unlike traditional photo booths where the photographer controls everything, this system hands the camera over to the participant, resulting in images that speak to individual creativity and self-possession. The inclusion of a precise remote trigger on the floor and carefully chosen backdrops enhances the professional quality of the images without sacrificing the fun and spontaneity of the moment. The photo booth can accommodate multiple people simultaneously, creating high-resolution portraits that look like they belong in a professional photo shoot rather than a party favor. The instant digital download and integration with social media platforms combine cutting-edge technology and usability to deliver a flawless user experience from start to finish.
Why is The Self-Portrait Project a must-have for celebrations and corporate events?
Because of its versatility, The Self-Portrait Project fits seamlessly into a variety of event types, including private parties, weddings, corporate gatherings, and brand activations. Its ability to produce studio-quality portraits with professional lighting and artistic backdrops elevates any event’s atmosphere, adding a sophisticated yet fun element that guests will remember. For weddings, in particular, it offers a novel way to capture candid moments without the intrusion of a traditional photographer, allowing guests to become part of the creative process. Corporate events benefit from the interactive and team-building nature of the activity, where employees can bond through shared creativity and playfulness. Brands can also use the photo booth for activation campaigns, turning attendees into brand ambassadors by encouraging them to share high-quality images associated with the event or product. The user-friendly operation and the support from skilled staff ensure that every event runs smoothly, allowing hosts to focus on their guests and enjoy the day without logistical worries. The consistent 5-star feedback from hundreds of customers confirms its status as a premier choice for creating memorable photo experiences.
How does The Self-Portrait Project reflect values of empowerment and social justice?
Unlike standard photo booths, The Self-Portrait Project is imbued with a philosophy rooted in empowerment and social consciousness. Created by Andy Lin, whose background includes award-winning documentary photography focused on social movements, the project is influenced by the idea that “nothing about us without us” — meaning people should have control over how they represent themselves. It encourages users to become both the photographer and the subject in their portraits, fostering a sense of ownership and agency in how they are seen. This participatory art concept is not only about fun pictures but also about addressing themes like self-awareness, vulnerability, vanity, and authenticity. By putting creative control in guests’ hands, it transforms each portrait into a meaningful expression of identity. This blend of art, social change, and technology makes it a rare experience where entertainment meets reflection, deepening the value of spending time with loved ones in this creative space.
Why do customers rate The Self-Portrait Project so highly?
The glowing 5.0 rating from over 130 reviews is a testament to the consistently positive experiences guests have at The Self-Portrait Project. Customer testimonials frequently highlight the ease of setup and the professionalism of the operator, often mentioning Andy by name as a friendly and skilled host who elevates the event’s vibe. Reviewers emphasize that the photos are more beautiful and high-quality than those from typical booths, pointing to the enhanced lighting, backdrop choice, and freedom of creative control. Many mention how much fun the experience is, noting that it keeps guests engaged for long periods, from silly poses to heartfelt portraits. The instant availability of photos and seamless social media sharing add to the appeal, making it easy to capture and celebrate the moment. The fact that many guests recount their excitement and satisfaction long after the event speaks volumes about the lasting impression The Self-Portrait Project leaves on groups of friends and families alike.
In sum, The Self-Portrait Project combines art, technology, and positive social values into an unforgettable group experience perfect for any celebration or casual meetup. Its unique approach to photography encourages genuine self-expression, making it a truly standout venue for hosting a fun and meaningful gathering.