Small Business Feature: Richard Perez-Pacheco, Founder of Pop Life Photo Booth

We recently had the pleasure of interviewing Richard Perez-Pacheco, the founder of Pop Life Photo Booth, a company that has been redefining the photo booth experience at events. With a background in photography, corporate branding, and design, Richard saw an opportunity to transform the traditional photo booth into something more innovative and engaging. In this interview, Richard shares his inspiration for starting the business, how he’s adapted to industry changes, and the unique offerings that set Pop Life apart from the competition. Here's what he had to say about the journey, challenges, and future of Pop Life Photo Booth.

1. What inspired you to start Pop Life Photo Booth, and how did you decide on the concept?

The inspiration for starting Pop Life Photo Booth came from my passion for photography and my desire to elevate the photo booth experience at events. I noticed that at many events, photo booths were often treated as an afterthought, needing more quality and creativity. With my background in corporate branding, graphic design, and photography, I saw an opportunity to create a more professional and memorable experience. I wanted to ensure that guests could capture meaningful moments with high-quality photos that they could cherish for years. Our concept revolves around providing not just a service but an experience that is carefully curated to enhance the joy and memories of any event.

2. How has the photo booth industry changed since you started, and how has Pop Life adapted to those changes?

Since we started seven years ago, the photo booth industry has evolved significantly. From traditional enclosed booths, the industry has shifted to more interactive experiences, such as 360 video booths, AI photo booths, and roaming booths. At Pop Life Photo Booth, we have adapted by incorporating these innovations while maintaining our high standards of quality. We’ve introduced a roaming AI booth and improved the quality of our digital booths to provide unique, high-quality outputs that meet the expectations of our clients.

3. What are some unique or standout features that Pop Life Photo Booth offers compared to other photo booth services?

What sets Pop Life Photo Booth apart is our commitment to quality and attention to detail. We rigorously test all our equipment before events and employ skilled photographers to ensure the highest quality photos. Compared to many other companies, we don't just use standard equipment or hire inexperienced staff. Our focus is on creating a seamless and memorable experience for our clients, with unique offerings such as customized 360 video booths and green screen technology that can transform any event into a spectacular visual experience.

4. Can you share a memorable event or experience where the Pop Life Photo Booth played a significant role in enhancing the atmosphere?

One memorable event that stands out is the Ebony Gala at UC Berkeley. The event had a vibrant, youthful atmosphere, and we provided a 360 video booth, event photography, and a glam booth, which significantly enhanced the overall experience. The planner was incredibly organized, and everything from the music to the food was perfect, creating an unforgettable event. Our services added an extra layer of excitement and engagement, making the night even more special for attendees.

5. How do you ensure that your clients have a seamless and enjoyable experience with your photo booth services?

We ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience by focusing on preparation, training, and quality control. Our team follows standard operating procedures (SOPs) for every event, and we conduct regular training sessions to ensure all staff are well-prepared. We also have weekly meetings to review past events and plan for upcoming ones, constantly seeking ways to improve our services. This systematic approach helps us maintain high standards and deliver exceptional experiences consistently.

6. What challenges have you faced as a small business in the events industry, and how have you navigated them?

One of the biggest challenges we’ve faced is staying connected and relevant within a tight-knit industry. To navigate this, we actively engage with industry associations like MPI and ILEA and participate in community events. Building strong relationships, staying informed about trends, and contributing to the community have been key strategies in overcoming challenges and staying competitive.

7. What role does technology play in your business, and how do you stay current with the latest trends and innovations in photo booths?

Technology is central to our business. We use the latest tools, including AI software and advanced photo booth software, to offer cutting-edge experiences. We stay current by continually researching new technologies, attending industry expos, and leveraging resources like YouTube and online tutorials to keep our skills sharp and our offerings innovative.

8. How do you engage with the community, and what impact has Pop Life Photo Booth had on local events or causes?

Community engagement is important to us. We support local causes, such as schools and cancer awareness events, by providing discounted services or donating our services to help raise awareness and funds. We also participate in business community events, contributing our expertise to enhance local gatherings and support important causes.

9. What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the photo booth industry or start their own event service business?

My advice is to have a clear plan and focus on both your strengths and weaknesses. Understand your brand identity, mission, and story, and ensure they align with your business goals. Pay attention to areas where you may need more experience, such as finance or operations, and seek help or training in those areas. Building a strong foundation in all aspects of your business is crucial for long-term success.

10. What are your plans for Pop Life Photo Booth, and how do you envision the business evolving in the coming years?

We plan to expand beyond photo booths to become a full-service photography and media agency. While we will continue offering unique photo booth experiences, we are also focusing more on professional photography, headshots, and event photography. Our goal is to provide a broader range of services while maintaining the high standards and instant gratification that our clients have come to expect from us.

How to Connect with Richard and the team at Pop Life Photobooth

Website https://poplifephotobooth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poplifephotobooth/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/poplifephotobooth

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/poplifephotobooth

Google: https://goo.gl/maps/L7vtPY9fQ2T2

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/poplifephotobooth/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@poplifephotobooth