FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The essentials

How does a selfie 360 photo booth work?

Gone are the days of running around videoing guests trying to capture the atmosphere. Now they can strike a pose on a platform while our Party Octopus rig swoops around taking thousands of photos. Specialist software merges these together to create seamless videos in high definition.

How many guests can fit on the Octopus?

To give everyone enough space to boogie, we recommend up to four guests at a time on the Party Octopus platform. However this does depend on feet size! The platform itself is 100cm wide.

How much space do you need?

Ideally 4.5 metres (15 feet) by 4.5 metres is best. The minimum area is 3.5 metres (11 and a half feet) by 3.5 metres. We also need a decent WIFI connection and a nearby double socket of mains power. We also use the venue’s existing floor surface. Our Party Octopus rig is pretty flexible, even coping with sumptuous carpet.

How long does it take to set up?

We need access for an hour to set up, and the same to remove. We unpack everything from a trolley we wheel in. If the schedule allows, it may be possible to set up mid event, or install and then return later to run the booth. Treading water time is priced at £50 an hour. Please get in touch so we can discuss options further.

Can we hire you for longer?

Yes, of course. The minimum hire time is three hours, which is usually fine for around 150 guests. But we can tailor a package to stay for as long as you like. Additional hours are charged at £100. 

Can you customize a package for what we need?

Absolutely, we can tailor a package to suit you. Need us to stay longer? Themed props? Colours to match your wedding flowers? Please just ask!

What parts of Yorkshire do you cover?

Travel is included for all venues within 50 miles of Hull. We then charge a mileage fee beyond this of £1.50 a mile. For venues more than three hours away, an accommodation fee may be charged. However this can be discussed before booking.

The tech

What sort of technology do you use?

The Party Octopus rigs are of the highest quality, made even stronger with customised steel fabrication. Rather than Go Pro or guests’ own phones, we use the latest Apple technology. Specialist software produces the high definition (HD) videos.

What sort of videos are produced?

The Party Octopus delivers HD videos in a mix of normal time, slow motion not forgetting the added Boomerang!

What type of lighting do you use?

It’s important that the lighting be as flattering as possible, and that it cancels out the shadow cast by the automated arm. This is why we only use professional-standard lighting, including a high-spec ring light on the Party Octopus arm.

How many videos can be taken?

As many as you can pose for. The only limit is the booth’s opening times.

Can the videos be customised?

Yes, absolutely. We can design a logo for you, or use one you’ve provided, to appear on all the videos. Or add names and dates. This is known as a custom overlay.

How do we choose the custom overlay?

When you book, please provide us with the type of event and any suggestions for an overlay. For example: ‘Chloe’s 18th Birthday’. Once the final balance is paid, our design team will start creating the overlay. They will continue to amend it until you are happy. Are you hiring the Party Octopus for a corporate event or brand launch? Simply email us your logo as a transparent png file. 

Can I add a soundtrack to the videos?

Yes, you can choose a track when you upload it to your socials. Or use our standardised one. 

When do we get the videos?

Immediately! Guests can head to the sharing station and be sent a link to their HD video by AirDrop, QR code or email. So they can be shared on socials instantly. Hosts will receive every video taken in our comprehensive after event video package.

People and props

Will someone be operating the selfie 360 booth?

Yes, to ensure an awesome experience, there will be an experienced booth attendant at all times. They’ll share lots of tips on poses and angles before the Party Octopus swoops round.

Do we have to use props?

No, not at all. You can go as minimalist or maximalist as you like.

What extras do you offer?

We’ve a smoke machine, disco lights, indoor cold sparkler machines, light-up numbers and letters and more. Check out our range of Extras to elevate your event to the next level.

What if we need a gap between setting up and starting the celebrations?

That’s absolutely fine. We understand how rooms are used for different purposes during the day and in the evening, especially during weddings. Depending on our schedule we can set up the booth, then wait until you’re ready to unleash the Party Octopus. We call this ‘treading water’ time, which is charged at £50 an hour.

Costs and payment

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Yes, to secure your date we ask for £100 deposit. The rest is payable on month before your event. Any service less that £100 total, the full balance will be due on booking. 

What if I need to cancel. Will I get my money back?

We require a £100 non-refundable deposit to secure your date. If you need to cancel, the remainder can be refunded up to 48 hours before the event. But please give us as much notice as you can.

Do you have a charity discount?

Every year we offer our services at a reduced rate for charities and not-for-profit organisations close to our heart. These have included:

• Aim Higher
• Think Mental Health 
• Andy’s Man Club 

This year’s quota is full.

Do you have insurance?

Yes, we have public liability insurance. Once you book, we will send all the relevant certificates to your venue.

The origins of Party Octopus

Why did you set up Party Octopus?

Charlie’s family is famous for throwing some epic parties. His sister was looking into hiring a photo booth one Christmas, but Charlie opted to buy one instead. It was such a success, he decided it would be fun to hire it out and enjoy people having a good time. Ellie his partner is our co-founder.

Why are you called Party Octopus?

Charlie has the family nickname of ‘Octopus’ because he’s always on the go, juggling so many projects and ideas he seems to have eight arms. So Party Octopus was just the logical name!

Availability and bookings

How can we find out if our date is available?

Simply head to reserve now to see our availability. and reserve your date. We will then be in touch about your booking.

How can we get in touch?

Just call us on 07934 123 965 or email bookings@party-octopus.co.uk