Apple Industries Studio Deluxe Supersizes Photobooth Experience

GREENVALE, NY -- Large photobooth attractions have become popular in recent years, so it's no surprise that Apple Industries is applying its engineering knowhow to create its own version.

Apple said its new Photo Studio Deluxe is designed to be an attraction that accommodates six or more users for group photos. Patrons can cavort, celebrate and pose against almost any kind of virtual environment, thanks to Apple's use of green-screen technology.

The manufacturer described the Photo Studio Deluxe as a "studio in a box" that allows several customers to pose in comfort with room to spare. Users decide how many people they want to invite.

The cabinet, like all booths in Apple's Face Place line, is made of steel and built to last. The interior uses 5,000 LEDs for lighting effects, while exterior lamps enhance the shimmering black cabinet. The unit measures 90" H. x 70" W. x 66" D.

"If you spend 10 minutes around photobooths in high-traffic locations, you notice one thing right away," said Apple president Allen Weisberg. "Taking photos in a booth is a big hit with groups, and the more the merrier."

Weisberg said that Apple's giant photobooth format has "generated strong numbers" in tests at movie theaters, FECs and shopping malls.

The Photo Studio Deluxe offers 20 photo experiences with different themes, settings and characters. Video sequences guide customers through a photo shoot. They can go traditional ... or get wild and crazy with colorful characters ranging from rock stars to rappers, pirates, mobsters and other characters. A dozen more choices round out the selections, including a travel-the-world background and a dance-off theme. Apple's application of green screen masking puts customers into a multilayered image in their choice of color, black and white or classic sepia-toned prints.

Four print packages are on the menu: one 6" x 9" photo; two 4" x 6" photos; two photostrips and one 4" x 6" photo; or four photostrips. The suggested vend prices range from $5 to $10.