Photobooths have been the cornerstone of American culture over the years. The golden era of these machines began in the 1950s, and you could see them standing proudly at every other amusement park, department store, and mall. They have captured the memories of millions of Americans, especially teenagers. However, with time and the democratization of photography, these photo booths were lost to time. However, for those who are keen on reliving this nostalgic time or experiencing the bygone era for the first time, we have come up with a perfect opportunity for you: a series of photobooth events throughout the year.
Autofoto, founded in 2009 by Rafael Hortala Vallve, is the creative head behind this year-long celebration. The organization is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Anatol Josepho’s invention of the first fully automated, coin-operated photo booth, which was invented in 1925. Through this event, the company aims to begin a project of global events, exhibitions, and collaborations that pay homage to the photobooth’s lasting impact on photography and public spaces.
How will they do this? By breathing life into old iconic machines that were once called Photomaton. Vallve and his team, including Creative Director Corinne Quin, have spent over a decade preparing these photobooths, which can be found in London, Barcelona, and the Stills Centre for Photography in Edinburgh.
The centennial celebration has begun this month with The Real Selfie Project at London’s Spitalfields Market. The idea is to engage traders and visitors in discussions about photography, portraiture, and analog in a digital era. There will also be interviews and a special exhibition spotlighting self-portraits taken in an analog photobooth.
Then, there are more exciting lineups in May, such as the renowned photography fair Photo London, where Autofoto will participate. Running from May 15 to 18, the festival will showcase the photobooth’s enduring legacy in the world of photography. There is also a community project screening at Rio Cinema, which is a historic 1930s art deco venue in Dalston, Hackney. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the work of Autofoto’s photo booths across London and Barcelona.
This 100-year anniversary is the perfect moment to celebrate the important history and contemporary relevance of the analogue photobooth. Through our events and projects, we hope to highlight the cultural significance, community connections, and the universal appeal of the photobooth across the world.
Rafael Hortala Vallve
In June, the organization will collaborate with Ramsgate and Karen Vost for The Love Booth, a program that is specifically designed to engage with the LGBTQ community. It explores the notions and themes of love, inclusivity, and the power of photography to foster social connection. As part of the project, you will see historical and contemporary photobooth images and also engage in community storytelling. In July, Autofoto will also be a part of Les Rencontres d’Arles, and in August, they will head to the International Photobooth Convention in New York.
But that is not all. In autumn, London-based The Photographers’ Gallery will showcase an exhibit dedicated to the history of the photobooth and its fans, including famous figures like John Lennon and Yoko Ono, Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy, and Andy Warhol. Visitors can also take self-portraits in the photobooth that will be station there.
Overall, throughout the year, you will see the organization’s collaboration with photographs and designers, including portrait photographer Jenny Lewis. Lewis will explore the theme of hereditary chronic illness through the lens of the photo booth, as the machine’s uncontrollable nature will serve as a metaphor. You will also see the photographer creating a series of photographs and interviews that highlight genetics and inherited conditions.
This is an event that you should not miss. If you happen to be in London, New York, or Barcelona during the year, take the time to visit the events. Autofoto’s efforts must not go in vain, and you will certainly enjoy the beauty of simpler times.
For more information, visit Autofoto’s website or their Instagram @autofoto.london.