San Francisco Photo Booth Locations
Discover 37 analog photo booths in San Francisco. From the Mission District to North Beach, find authentic photochemical machines with real film processing throughout the Bay Area.
San Francisco Photo Booth Map
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Click on markers to view booth details and get directions. Zoom in to explore specific neighborhoods like the Mission, North Beach, and SOMA.
All San Francisco Photo Booths
ActiveMusée Mécanique - Analog Booth
San Francisco, United States
Vintage analog (identify by location: back by window)
B&WSan Francisco Photo Booth Culture
San Francisco's photo booth culture reflects the city's deep countercultural roots and artistic heritage. From the Beat Generation's haunts in North Beach to the punk rock venues of the Mission District, analog photo booths have documented decades of San Francisco's creative expression and social movements.
The Bay Area has long been at the forefront of analog photography appreciation. San Francisco photo booth enthusiasts treasure these machines not just for nostalgia, but as functioning examples of photochemical technology that produce authentic, unfiltered portraits. Unlike digital alternatives, these booths use real film processing, creating tangible strips that capture genuine moments.
Many of San Francisco's photo booths are located in dive bars, independent music venues, and vintage arcades—places that celebrate analog culture. The Mission District, in particular, has become a hub for photo booth culture, with several bars maintaining classic machines from the 1970s and 1980s. These venues see the booths as part of their identity, not just novelty attractions.
The city's appreciation for analog extends beyond booths to a thriving film photography community. Local camera shops still sell film, and vintage camera collectors gather at markets throughout the Bay Area. Photo booths fit perfectly into this ecosystem—they're accessible, immediate, and produce the same photochemical prints that film photographers prize.
SF Neighborhoods with Photo Booths
San Francisco Photo Booth Tips
- •Cash is king: Most SF photo booths are cash-only. Bring quarters, dollar bills, and $5 bills. Some machines don't give change.
- •Mission District bars: Many dive bars have booths that are only accessible during evening hours. Check venue hours before visiting.
- •BART station machines: Downtown BART stations have some of the oldest, most authentic machines. Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
- •Processing time: Allow 2-3 minutes for your photos to develop after the session. Don't pull the strip before it's fully ejected.
- •Weekend crowds: Valencia Street booths get busy on Friday and Saturday nights. Weekday afternoons offer the best experience.
- •Ask locals: Some of the best booths are in hidden spots. Bartenders and venue staff often know about machines not widely advertised.
Best Times to Visit SF Photo Booths
Weekday afternoons (2-5pm): Shortest wait times at bar and venue booths. Many Mission District bars open by 3pm.
Early evenings (5-7pm): Good window before dinner crowds. Lighting is still natural if booths are near windows.
Sunday mornings: BART station booths are quiet. Some arcade locations open early for families.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many photo booths are in San Francisco?
There are currently 37 verified analog photo booths in San Francisco. These are spread across neighborhoods including the Mission District, North Beach, Haight-Ashbury, SOMA, and the Financial District. We continuously update our database as new booths are discovered.
Where can I find photo booths in San Francisco?
San Francisco photo booths are typically located in bars, music venues, vintage arcades, and cultural institutions. The Mission District has a particularly high concentration, especially along Valencia Street and in dive bars. BART stations downtown also have a few classic machines.
How much do San Francisco photo booths cost?
Most San Francisco photo booths charge $4-$8 per session, producing a strip of 4 photos. Some vintage machines at dive bars may be cheaper ($2-$3), while newer installations at upscale venues can cost up to $10. Most machines accept cash only.
What neighborhoods in San Francisco have the most photo booths?
The Mission District has the highest concentration of photo booths in SF, followed by North Beach and SOMA. Haight-Ashbury and the Castro also have several vintage machines. Many are located in bars and music venues that celebrate analog culture.
Are San Francisco photo booths black and white or color?
San Francisco has a mix of both. Classic machines from the 1970s-80s often produce black & white photos with that iconic grainy aesthetic. Newer analog machines offer color options. Check individual booth listings for specific photo types.