Who invented the photo booth?
Reviewed by Booth Beacon · Verified 2026-08-25
Quick Answer
The modern automated photo booth was invented by Siberian-born inventor Anatol Josepho, who patented the Photomaton in New York City in 1925 and opened the first commercial studio on Broadway in September 1926.
Full Answer
Anatol Marco Josepho filed US Patent No. 1,656,522 for his enclosed, automated photographic apparatus combining continuous reversal paper rolls with a synchronized dip-and-dunk chemical rack. His Broadway Photomaton drew 280,000 patrons in six months, leading to a historic $1,000,000 patent sale in 1927.
Sources & Provenance
Evidence type: editorial · Confidence: High · Verified 2026-08-25
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