WO2010056221A1

WO2010056221A1 - Portable image booth having video and email capabilities

Info

Publication number: WO2010056221A1
Application number: PCT/US2008/012682
Authority: WO
Inventors: Troy Bakewell; Donald Bakewell; Michael Jacobs
Original assignee: CAMELOT PHOTOGRAPHY
Current assignee: CAMELOT PHOTOGRAPHY
Priority date: 2008-11-12
Filing date: 2008-11-12
Publication date: 2010-05-20
Anticipated expiration: 2011-05-12

Abstract

An image booth system includes an image booth having a tubular frame capable of disassembly, fabric for covering at least portions of the tubular frame, and a case configured to hang from the frame including a camera capable of capturing both still and moving images, at least one actuator operably connected to the camera, and a first computer operably connected to the camera and the at least one actuator. The system further includes a second computer operably connected to the first computer and having software for setting one or more parameters for the first computer. The first computer is configured to control operation of the camera as a function of operation of the at least one actuator and the one or more parameters.

Description

PORTABLE IMAGE BOOTH HAVING VIDEO AND EMAIL CAPABILITIES

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a portable image booth. Recently, photobooths have become popular at weddings, reunions, and other large parties and events. Guests are invited to enter an automated portrait studio. After producing a series of self portraits, the photos are immediately printed, and the guests can leave with an original keepsake to remember the special event.

The photobooths used at special events have often been vending machine type booths that are costly to transport and set up. For instance, vending machine type booths typically are made of heavy and bulky materials, such as wood or composite panels connected in a fixed configuration. These vending machine type booths also offer limited functionality, and can be unsightly in appearance.

SUMMARY

An image booth system according to the present invention includes a first image booth. The first image booth includes a tubular frame capable of disassembly for storage and transport, fabric for covering at least portions of the tubular frame to define an enclosure having a doorway, and a case configured to hang from the frame. The case includes a camera capable of capturing both still and moving images, at least one actuator operably connected to the camera for selecting either a still image mode or a moving image mode, and a first computer operably connected to the camera and the at least one actuator for controlling operation of the camera and for processing images captured by the camera. The system further includes a second computer operably connected to the first computer and having software stored in computer-readable memory for setting one or more parameters for the first computer. The first computer is configured to control operation of the camera as a function of both operation of the at least one actuator and the one or more parameters set by the second computer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an image booth system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a frame for the image booth system. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the image booth system utilizing the first embodiment of the image booth frame from FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a frame for the image booth system with a fabric covering partially installed. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the image booth system utilizing the second embodiment of the image booth frame from FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a hook and clamp system for hanging a case from an image booth frame.

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of a case containing photographic equipment in an open position and FIG. 7B is a back perspective view of the case in a closed position.

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a pair of cases each holding components of the image booth system.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a method for assembling the image booth system.

FIGS. 10A- 1OE are schematic representations of index layout templates for use with the image booth system.

FIG. 1 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method for operating the image booth system. FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a multi -booth system according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In general, a portable image booth system includes a frame of connectable tubular members and a fabric cover that is draped over the frame to produce an enclosed image studio. The frame is made up of a set of lightweight frame components that can be transported to the site of a wedding, reunion, or other event in a portable container and quickly assembled. The frame defines the top, side (or sidewalls), and door opening of the image booth enclosure. Horizontal supports extending between vertical supports at a location spaced from the ground are provided to increase rigidity of the frame. The frame includes a clamp and hook system for hanging a case within the enclosure. The photographic equipment including a camera capable of capturing both still and moving images, a computer, display, lighting components, and at least one actuator is all contained and operably connected within the case to simplify set-up of the image booth system. The fully assembled image booth system provides means for a person or a group of persons to take still and moving images. Any resultant photos and movies can be emailed, electronically stored for later retrieval, and/or made available on-site as printouts and/or digital media (e.g., compact discs (CDs)) for guests to take with them from the event.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of image booth system 20 that includes image booth enclosure 22. The image booth enclosure 22 provides an at least partially enclosed space in which case 23 is located. Case 23 includes camera 24, lighting 26, first computer 28, display (or monitor) 30, speaker 32, and at least one actuator 34. Image booth system 20 can include other components, which can be located outside both case 23 and image booth enclosure 22. Additional components of system 20 include, but are not limited to, second computer 36, second display (or monitor) 38, printer 40, writable media device 41 , web server 42, email server 43, Internet connection 44, remote (or third) computer 46, remote (or third) display (or monitor) 48, and remote printer 50. Image booth system 20, particularly image booth enclosure 22 and case 23 containing camera 24, are designed to be quickly assembled and disassembled. Assembly can be performed by one person with a limited number of tools.

The photographic equipment needed for image booth system 20 is contained within case 23. Specifically, camera 24, lighting components 26, first computer 28, first display 30, speaker 32, and at least one actuator 34 are secured inside of case 23 along with the cables necessary to operably connect these components. Case 23 can be closed to protect the photographic equipment during storage and travel, and case 23 can be opened to expose photographic equipment for use. A further description of case 23 appears below with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B. Camera 24 can be any commercially available camera mounted to case 23 and capable of capturing both still and moving images. The word "images", as used herein, includes both still images (or photographs) and moving images (or videos). Users of image booth system 20 can toggle camera 24 between a still image mode and a moving image mode. A digital video camera would be suitable for use as camera 24. Lighting components 26 can be any suitable photographic lighting assembly, such as professional quality studio lighting equipment, and are mounted to case 23. Lighting components 26 are operably connected to camera 24 (or alternatively to first computer 28) to allow flash, strobe or other lighting effects produced by the lighting 26 to be synchronized as desired with the operation of camera 24. Lighting components 26 are typically positioned to illuminate photographic subjects located within image booth enclosure 22, and are configured or operated to provide a desired illumination intensity within image booth enclosure 22. In one embodiment, lighting 26 includes a light meter for measuring light and a detachable umbrella for diffusing light. Fragile lighting subcomponents (e.g. a light bulb) can be disconnected prior to closing and storing or transporting case 23.

First computer 28 can be a commercially available personal computer mounted to case 23 and operably connected to first display 30, speaker 32, camera 24, and at least one actuator 34. In one embodiment, first computer 28 is a conventional laptop computer with integrated first display 30. First computer 28 includes conventional components such a non- volatile memory, a processor, etc., and includes suitable software to communicate with connected components and to store images captured by camera 24. In one embodiment, computer 28 runs an image booth software application to control operation of image booth system 20 (explained further below). Speaker 32 can be an external component operably connected to first computer 28 (e.g., via a conventional universal serial bus (USB) connection) or can be integral with first computer 28. First computer 28 can be installed in the image booth enclosure 22 within case 23, along with camera 24, lighting 26, first display 30, speaker 32, and at least one actuator 34 to reduce a risk of theft. In an alternative embodiment, first computer 28 can be located outside of the image booth enclosure 22.

At least one actuator 34 is positioned to be readily accessible for users of image booth system 20. In one embodiment, two actuators 34 are realized as depressible buttons positioned adjacent to display 30 within case 23. In this embodiment, actuators 34 are operably connected to camera 24 such that depressing actuators 34 will toggle camera 24 between a still image mode and a moving image mode. After selection of the still image mode or the moving image mode, further depressing actuators 34 will result in capturing either a still or moving image, respectively. In an alternative embodiment, actuators 34 are operably connected to the first computer 28 (e.g., via a conventional universal serial bus (USB) connection). Indication that an image has or will be taken can be provided via display 30 and/or speaker 32, as desired. In an alternative embodiment, actuator 34 can be provided as a touch-screen interface, which can be integrated with display 30.

Second computer 36 is typically installed adjacent to and outside of the image booth enclosure 22 and is operably connected to first computer 28. As with first computer 28, second computer 36 can be commercially available a laptop type personal computer in which second display 48 is integral. Printer 40 is operably connected to second computer 36, and allows instant printouts of images captured within image booth enclosure 22 at a selected resolution. In one embodiment, printer 40 is configured to provide color printouts. Second computer 36 coupled with second display 48 provides access for users to review images captured with the camera 24 and input information such as, but not limited to, email addresses and text (e.g., names). Selected images can then be instantly printed on-site using connected printer 40. All images, whether printed or not, are given a unique identifier and stored or archived by second computer 36 (or alternatively by first computer 28). Second computer 36 (or alternatively by the first computer 28) is also operably connected to the writable media device 41 (e.g., a CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R or other writable disc drive). If users prefer a CD containing images over printout, a CD can be instantly provided. Writable media device 41 can transfer images to writable media (e.g., bum the images to a writable disc), which can be given to users, retained by the event organizer, etc. It should be noted that second computer 36 is optional, and can be omitted from system 20 in alternative embodiments.

The system 20 can optionally include hardware components known as "dongles" that can be engaged with each of the first and second computers 28 and 36 to authenticate and restrict software usage in a conventional manner. Specifically, the system 20 can be configured such that software on the first and/or second computers 28 and 36 can launch only when an associated dongle is engaged thereto. The dongle can provide enhanced security to the system 20. Alternatively or additionally, software can be secured by other means such as, but not limited to time-sensitive license keys.

Images can be transferred to the web server 42 and/or email server 43 by any suitable means (e.g., a network connection, removable storage media, etc.). It should be noted that the first and second computers 28 and 36 need not be connected to the web server 42 or email server 43 when the image booth enclosure 22 is assembled at an event and camera 24 is being used. For instance, first or second computer 28 or 36 can be set up at a new location for the purpose of transferring data, that is, stored or archived images, to web server 42 or email server 43. In one embodiment, Internet connection 44 is accessible while image booth enclosure 22 is assembled and camera 24 is being used. In this embodiment, users of image booth system 20 can enter an email address into first or second computer 28 or 36 and send an email containing one or more electronic images using email server 43 and Internet connection 44 during the event. Composed emails can be sent as they are created, or sent by the operator subsequent to an event as a batch process. The batch email sending process can include constant notifications as emails are sent one by one including an option to abort the batch sending process. In addition, or alternatively, a web site accessible via web server 42 can be provided for allowing remote access to the stored or archived images in galleries. The web site can provide password and login protection or other security features to limit access to galleries of stored or archived photographic images from the web server 42. Images can be grouped into galleries by event, allowing the web site and web server 42 to provide access to images captured at a number of different events, while limiting access to the images for each event to authorized users. Typically, the users authorized to access images from a particular event will be the participants and/or organizers of that event.

Through Internet connection 44, remote computer 46 can access an email via email server 43 and a web site via web server 42. Remote computer 46 is operably connected to third display 48 and remote printer 50. It should be understood that remote computer 46 is merely exemplary, and any number of computers each having nearly any configuration can connect to the email and/or the web site via the Internet connection 44 and email server 43 /web server 42. An authorized user can access the email/web site to download desired images, and can subsequently store those images on remote computer 46, view those images on third display 48, and/or print those images with printer 50. Image booth enclosure 22 can have numerous alternative sizes in alternative embodiments, allowing an event organizer to select a suitable size for a particular event and event location. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of image booth frame 60 of image booth enclosure 22, which is similar in size to traditional vending machine type photobooths. Image booth frame 60 is configured to accommodate couples or small groups of up to three or four people.

Image booth frame 60 comprises a plurality of tubular members connected together to provide structural support for image booth enclosure 22, which in the illustrated embodiment defines a substantially rectangular box-shaped interior space. For example, U.S. patent application serial number 12/079,004 titled "Photobooth" discloses a photobooth frame suitable for image booth frame 60. The tubular members of image booth frame 60 can be cylindrically shaped, or can have other tubular shapes. The tubular members are made of a relatively lightweight and rigid material, such as aluminum or plastic. The tubular members of the image booth frame 60 help make the image booth system 20 much easier and much less expensive to transport and set up than traditional vending machine type photobooths.

The tubular members of the image booth frame 60 include four vertically- positioned corner posts 62A-62D, vertically-positioned doorway post 64, four horizontally-positioned top bars 66A-66D, four horizontal links 68A-68D, and vertically- positioned clamp bar 70. The tubular members can each be telescoping in length to allow for compaction for storage and transport. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, each corner post 62A-62D can telescope in three sections, which can be secured to maintain a desired length with hand-tight enable clamps 73 (only two clamps 73 are labeled in FIG. 2 for simplicity). The telescoping tubular members can be collapsed for storage and transportation, and expanded to suitable lengths for assembly with image booth frame 60. Markings can be provided on each of the telescoping tubular members for easy visual identification of suitable lengths for use with the image booth frame 60. In one embodiment, tubular members are color coded to facilitate assembly and disassembly of image booth frame 60. Labeling the tubular members that comprise image booth frame 60 with a distinctive color uniquely associated with the front (e.g. 66D), back (e.g. 66B), and each side (e.g. 66 A and 66B) of frame 60 can speed-up the time needed for assembly.

Couplings, including T-fittings 74, elbows 76, top corner fittings 78 and lower corner fittings 80, are provided to connect tubular members together to define image booth frame 60. It should be noted that in FIG. 2 only a selected number of the couplings 74, 76, 78 and 80 are labeled, for simplicity. The T-fittings 74 connect an end of one tubular member to a middle portion of an adjacent tubular member in a perpendicular, T-shaped orientation. Elbows 76 connect ends of two adjacent tubular members together at a right angle. Top corner fittings 78 connect ends of three adjacent tubular members together at right angles to each other. Lower corner fittings 80 connect ends of each of two tubular members to a middle portion of an adjacent tubular member perpendicular to one another. T-fittings 74 , elbows 76, top corner fittings 78 and lower corner fittings 80 can accept ends of tubular members each secured with a set screw (e.g., having a head that can be tightened and released with an Allen wrench or hex-head socket wrench). Couplings 74, 76, 78 and 80 can be made of lightweight materials, such as plastic, with metal fasteners attached thereto.

In the illustrated embodiment, corner posts 62A-62D are arranged parallel to each other to define vertical edges of a rectangular perimeter of image booth frame 60. Top bar 66A is connected between corner posts 62A and 62B at a top of image booth frame 66, top bar 66B is connected between corner posts 62B and 62C at the top of image booth frame 66, top bar 66C is connected between corner posts 62C and 62D at the top of image booth frame 66, and top bar 66D is connected between corner posts 62D and 62A at the top of image booth frame 66. Doorway post 64 is positioned between corner posts 62A and 62D and connects to top bar 66D in order to define doorway 81 between doorway post 64, corner post 62A and a portion of top bar 66D. Horizontal link 68A is connected between corner posts 62A and 62B at an intermediate height location in between the top and bottom of image booth frame 66, horizontal link 68B is connected between corner posts 62B and 62C at the intermediate height location, horizontal link 68C is connected between corner posts 62C and 62D at the intermediate height location, and horizontal link 68D is connected between corner posts 62D and 62A at the intermediate height location. The intermediate height location is spaced from both the top of image booth frame 60 and the underlying ground or floor surface on which the image booth frame 60 rests, in order to provide structural support and increase the rigidity and stiffness of the assembled image booth frame 60. Additionally, stoppers 82 are provided at bottom ends of each of corner posts 62A-62D and doorway post 64. Stoppers 82 can be feet or caps made of rubber or another compliant material, in order to protect floor surfaces on which the image booth frame 60 is installed. Also in the illustrated embodiment is a clamp and hook system for mounting case 23 within image booth enclosure 22. The clamp and hook system includes clamp bar 70, clamp 71, and hook 72. Clamp bar 70 is connected to top bar 66C and horizontal link 68C by T-fittings 74, both connections being spaced between corner posts 62D and 62C. In the illustrated embodiment, clamp 71 attaches to the second portion of clamp bar 70, and hook 72 attaches to clamp 71 such that the operator can securely hang case 23 (not shown in FIG. 2) containing camera 24 from hook 72.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of image booth system 20 utilizing the first embodiment of image booth frame 60, with fabric covering 84 installed over frame 60. As shown in FIG. 3, fabric covering 84 covers substantially all of image booth frame 60, including complete coverage of top and four sides of the frame 60, but excluding doorway 81 and the bottom along the floor or ground surface on which frame 60 rests. Chairs or other seating (not shown) for users can be provided within image booth enclosure 22. A movable curtain 86 is positioned to cover at least a portion of doorway 81. Case 23 containing camera 24 hangs from hook 72 in front of fabric covering 84 within image booth enclosure 22. A suitable backdrop (not shown) can additionally be provided within image booth enclosure 22. Fabric covering 84 and curtain 86 provide a generally opaque barrier in between tubular members of image booth frame 60, to enclose the interior space of frame 60 in order to provide a suitable barrier to light and a suitable backdrop for images captured inside. In one embodiment, fabric covering 84 is a black cloth material and curtain 86 is a red cloth material. Fabric covering 84 can be draped or wrapped around the tubular members of image booth frame 60. Curtain 86 can be secured to image booth frame 60 at doorway 81 with hook-and-loop material 88 (e.g., Velcro® hook-and-loop fastener material), shown in FIG. 2 but not visible in FIG. 3. Fabric covering 84 and curtain 86 provide an attractive appearance to image booth enclosure 22, in contrast to the unattractive appearance of most rented vending machine type booths. Thus, image booth enclosure 22 of the present invention can add to the beauty and ambiance of a room where installed, rather than detracting from it. Fabric covering 84 and curtain 86 can be easily cleaned, which helps the image booth system 20 maintain a cleaner appearance over time than traditional vending machine style photobooths, which tend to accumulate unsightly dust and dirt.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of image booth frame 60' of the image booth system 20 with fabric covering 84 partially installed. Image booth frame 60' in the illustrated embodiment can be larger in size than traditional vending machine type photobooths. Image booth frame 60' is particularly well suited for weddings and reunions because it can handle larger groups of four or more persons, yet still produce nicely composed portraits for couples.

Image booth frame 60' can be constructed from tubular members similar to those described above with respect to the first embodiment of image booth frame 60. Image booth frame 60' includes four vertically-positioned corner posts 62A-62D, four horizontally-positioned top bars 66A-66D, four horizontal links 68A-68D, and clamp bar 70 assembled from tubular members. Also, couplings, including T-fittings 74, elbows 76, top corner fittings 78 and lower corner fittings 80, are provided to connect tubular members together to define image booth frame 60'. A clamp and hook system including clamp 71 attached to clamp bar 70 and hook 72 attached to clamp 71 is provided so that case 23 containing camera 24 (not shown in FIG. 4) can hang from hook 72 within image booth enclosure 22. Image booth frame 60' can be assembled from the same tubular members that can be assembled to form the first embodiment frame 60, assembled in a different manner to form the second embodiment frame 60'. In order to assemble the tubular members in a different configuration, the tubular members can be telescoped to different lengths to match the desired configuration. Image booth frame 60' differs from image booth frame 60 in that the large second embodiment frame 60' includes two vertically-positioned doorway posts 64A and 64B and horizontally-extending doorway header 164 connected between the doorway posts 64 A and 64B. Additionally, fifth horizontal link 68E is connected between second doorway post 64B and corner post 62A. As shown in FIG. 4, doorway 81 is defined between doorway posts 64A and 64B and doorway header 164, and is positioned approximately halfway between corner posts 62 A and 62D. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the image booth system 20 utilizing the second embodiment of the image booth frame 60'. As with the first embodiment, fabric covering 84 covers substantially all of the second embodiment of image booth frame 60', including complete coverage of a top and four sides of frame 60', but excluding doorway 81 and the bottom along the floor or ground surface on which frame 60' rests. Chairs or other seating (not shown) can be provided within the image booth enclosure 22. A movable curtain 86 is positioned to cover at least a portion of the doorway 81. Case 23 containing camera 24 hangs from hook 72 in front of fabric covering 84. Fabric covering 84 can be a black cloth material and curtain 86 can be a red cloth material. Fabric covering 84 can be draped or wrapped around the tubular members of image booth frame 60'. Curtain 86 can be secured to image booth frame 60' at doorway 81 with hook-and- loop material 88 (e.g., Velcro® hook-and-loop fastener material), shown in FIG. 4 but not visible in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the hook and clamp system for hanging case 23 from a portion of an image booth frame (e.g. image booth frame 60 or 60'). The hook and clamp system includes clamp bar 70, clamp 71, and hook 72. Clamp bar 70 of the illustrated embodiment includes three portions: first portion 90 that extends perpendicularly from top bar 66C, second portion 92 that extends from first portion 90 at a right angle and continues vertically in a manner parallel to corner posts 62C and 62D, and third portion 94 that extends from second portion 92 at a right angle toward horizontal link 68C (see FIG. 4). T-fittings or other means of coupling tubular members can connect clamp bar 70 to image booth frame 60 or 60'. Specifically, first portion 90 couples with top bar 66C and the third portion couples with horizontal link 69C. Clamp 71 attaches to second portion 92 of clamp bar 70 and can be hand-tightened thereto using knob 75. Additional knob 76 and bore 95 can be provided in clamp 71 for securing hook 72. In the illustrated embodiment, hook 72 includes horizontally-oriented projection 96, which is received by bore 95 of clamp 71 such that hook 72 and clamp 71 are securely fastened to one another and image booth frame 60 or 60'. Once the hook and clamp system is so assembled, an operator can hang case 23 (not shown in FIG. 2) containing camera 24 from hook 72 within image booth enclosure 22.

FIG. 7A is a front perspective view of case 23 containing photographic equipment in an open position and FIG. 7B is a back perspective view of case 23 in a closed position. Case 23 can be divided into first portion 100 connected to second portion 102 by hinge 104. Hinge 104 allows case 23 to assume an open configuration where camera 24 is exposed for capturing images (depicted in FIG. 7A) and a closed configuration where camera 24 is protected for storage and transport (depicted in FIG. 7B). A portable photographic system including camera 24, lighting 26, first computer 28, first display 30, speaker 32, and at least one actuator 34 can be operably connected and secured within case 23. Cabling 103 and a USB hub (not shown) can be provided to operably connect photographic components. Holding the photographic equipment in place and are plates 101A and 101B. In one embodiment, a light bulb socket (which is part of lighting components 26) is located on a top half of first portion 100, camera 24 is located on a bottom half of first portion 100, display 30 is located on a top half of second portion 102, and first computer 28 and actuators 34 are located on the bottom half of second portion 102.

Actuators 34 can be buttons that allow a user to choose between a still image mode and a moving image mode. For example, an initial depression of first actuator 34A can select a still image mode for camera 24 and an initial depression of second actuator 34B can select a moving image mode for camera 24. A second depression of first actuator 34A can initiate a still image capture whereas a second depression of second actuator 34B can initiate a moving image capture. The functionality of actuators 34 is determined by the image booth software application described below. If actuators 34 protrude from plate 101 B, suitable holes can be provided in plate 101 A to accommodate actuators 34 when case 23 is closed. Also included on case 23 is handle 1 10 for hanging case 23 from hook 72. In the illustrated embodiment, clamp 1 16 is provided to further secure case 23 to image booth frame 60 or 60'. Clamp 1 16 can be fixedly secured to first portion 100 of case 23 at a location spaced from handle 100, such that case 23 is supported relative to frame 60 or 60' at two points for greater stability during operation of the system 20. Ports 112, 1 14 can be provided for connecting first computer 28 to components external to case 23 such as, but not limited to a power source, Internet connection 44, email server 43, web sever 42, printer 40, writable media device 41, and second computer 36.

In the case of a technical issue, redundant components of case 23 are embedded within case 23. For example, should a technical issue prevent camera 24 operation, a second camera is already connected within case 23 and ready for use. In a few moments, an operator can replace broken camera 24 with second camera so that the photographic system can continue to be used at the event. The redundancy of the components within case 23 does not depend on an operator remembering to bring spare equipment and can result in a successful event even after a component malfunctions.

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of case 192 holding components of image booth system 20. In the illustrated embodiment, case 192 is a hard-sided case comparable in size to a golf club case, with exemplary tubular members 62A and 66A and fabric covering 84 shown located inside case 192. Large case 192 allows transport of the image booth system 20 in a compact fashion, with the tubular members of image booth frame telescoped to their shortest possible lengths.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating method 200 for assembling and setting- up image booth system 20. First, image booth system 20 is transported to an event location (step 202). Upon arrival at the event location, image booth system 20 components are unpacked from any case or cases in which they were stored for transportation and storage. If case 23 is used to transport the photographic equipment, then no unpacking of case 23 is necessary. Image booth frame 60 or 60' of image booth enclosure 22 is then assembled at the event location (step 204). Assembly includes connecting the tubular members of enclosure 22. After assembly, case 23 is installed by hanging case on image booth frame 60 or 60' (step 205). Installing case (step 205) also includes opening case 23 to expose camera 24, lighting 26, first computer 28, first display 30, speaker 32, and at least one actuator 34. Case 23 can be opened either before or after hanging case 23. Components external to image booth enclosure 22 such as second computer 36, second display 38, and printer 40 can also be assembled and placed on a table located adjacent to enclosure 22, which can be covered with a tablecloth consistent in appearance with fabric covering 84 of enclosure 22. During assembly, image booth frame 60 or 60' can be covered with fabric covering 84, and curtain 86 installed. As mentioned above, assembly can be performed by one person with a limited number of tools. After image booth system 20 has been fully assembled, power is supplied to the electronic equipment (step 206) and an image booth application is launched (step 208). Generally, the image booth application will be installed on first computer 28 prior to transport and assembly of image booth system 20 at an event location, but could be installed at the event location if need be. When launched, the image booth application displays a landing page (step 209), which allows the operator to select between at least two modes (step 210): an administrative mode and a booth mode. The operator selects the administration mode to set parameters for the operation of image booth system 20 (step 212). Specifically, the administrative mode allows for manipulation of event settings (such as host information, the name of the event, the languages used for the event, specific messages graphics shown to users, layout and templates, actuator function, etc.) as well as camera and printer functionality (such as color, black & white, sepia, zoom, focus, white balance, flash level, number of photos, and/or any other supported feature). Once parameters are set (step 212), the image booth application returns to landing page (step 209). From the landing page, the operator selects the booth mode (step 210) which causes a welcome page display to appear (step 214). The booth mode implements the actual capturing, printing, storing and sending of images during an event. If desired, the booth mode can be tested by the operator prior to inviting users into image booth enclosure 22. While in administrative mode and setting parameters for the event and the camera (step 212), an operator can choose an index layout 218 for presentation of captured images to guests. FIGS. 1 OA-I OE depict exemplary index layouts 218 for use with photo booth system 20. Each exemplary index layout 218 includes space for at least one image 220, space for at least one caption 222, and space for additional labeling (e.g. event title) 224. A company photo, host logo or other graphics can be placed in one image space 220 (replacing a possible user-captured photo location) if desired, as determined by parameters set in the administrative mode. The index layout 218 is a parameter chosen by the operator in the administration mode that can set the number of images taken by the camera in the booth mode, which can occur as a function of the number of images 220 in a given image layout 218. For example, while in the administration mode, the operator can choose index layout 218 having three image spaces 220. This decision in the administration mode can set the booth mode's response to depression of first actuator 34A so that a user selects "still image mode" and triggers the capture of three successive still images all associated with a given index layout 218. In the booth mode, users can be prevented from adjusting the number of still images, the length of a video image, etc. that is captured upon a single triggering of a given actuator 34. Index layouts 218 can also include background images or colors, borders, and additional labeling. After guests use photo booth system 20, captured images can be presented in index layout 218 on a computer screen, on a print-out, in an email, on a web page, etc., for instance, on display 38 associated with second computer 36.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating method 230 for operating image booth system 20. Following method 200 for assembling and setting-up image booth system 20, method 230 (e.g. image booth mode) can be implemented. During an event, users enter image booth enclosure 22 and are presented a welcome greeting on display 30 (step 232). The greeting acts as a user interface providing instructions for capturing images via display 30 and or/speaker 32 operably connected to first computer 28 within image booth enclosure 22, such as indicating still and video functionality assigned to each actuator 34. Users can interact with the booth mode running on first computer 28 through one or more actuators 34. Actuators 34 allow users to select between a still image mode and a moving image mode (step 234). Actuators also allow users to trigger the capture of one or more images with camera 24 (steps 235 and 236). If still image mode is selected at step 234, then at least one still image is captured according to parameters set in the administrative mode (step 236). If a moving image mode is selected at step 234, then a video image is captured according to parameters set in the administrative mode (step 237). Lighting 26 within image booth enclosure 22 can provide illumination at or near the time the image is captured. In one embodiment, users can view themselves on first display 30 moving about within image booth enclosure 22 in real time and thus, continuously position themselves while capturing images. Before and/or after capturing images, the booth mode can show slides to users within the booth. These slides can include greetings, countdowns, images or any other message.

Images captured by camera 24 are transferred from first computer 28 to second computer 36. Each captured image (whether still or video) is given a unique name, which is used as a specific identifier throughout the image booth application. Still images can be gathered into a single index image, which can be arranged and formatted onto index layout 218 (including labels, background colors, borders, etc.) prior to viewing, printing or sending images. After image capture, users can review captured images on-site (step 238). For instance, users can view captured images on second display 30 operably connected to second computer 36 and located outside image booth enclosure 22. Users can be asked to register with image booth system 20 by providing their names and email addresses so that the event host can later communicate with the users by sending emails including messages, images, and/or links to an online gallery. Users can also be invited to instantly print selected images (still only) using printer 40 and/or burn selected images (still or video) to writable disc media (step 240) and/or send one or more images (still or video) via email server 43 and Internet connection 44 (step 242). Emails can be sent as they are created if Internet connection 44 is available on site, or emails can be sent as a batch after the event is complete and Internet connection 44 is available at another location. If emails are sent later by the operator, the batch sending process can provide constant notifications of sending status as emails as sent one by one and also include an abort sending option. Regardless of whether any photos were printed or burned at step 240 or sent via email at step 242 during the event, all captured images can be stored electronically (step 244).

The software can optionally include a counter or statistics keeper module to count the number of imaging sessions that occur during an event, and/or count the number of times the software had been launched on each computer (e.g., first and second computers 28 and 36).

Stored images can be posted to image galleries on a web site hosted on the web server 42 (step 246) and/or emailed (step 248) after the event is complete. A user at a remote computer 46 can access images (step 250) through selected image galleries of the web site over Internet connection 44. Access to the online galleries can be restricted by password, or using other security features, for instance, to limit access of certain users to photo galleries for particular events. Similarly, a user at a remote computer 46 can access images (step 250) which were emailed from email server 43 and Internet connection 44. Once accessed from the web site or from an email (step 250), selected images can then be stored (step 252) and/or printed (step 254) as desired, using the remote computer 46 and operably connected third display 48 and remote printer 50.

For a large event, a plurality of image booths can be provided. FIG. 12 depicts how the components of image booth system 20 can be organized into complex multi-booth system 260. In the illustrated embodiment, six image booth enclosures 22A- 22F are depicted although more or less enclosures are equally possible in alternative embodiments. Each image booth enclosure 22A-22F is a self-contained photographic studio of the type described above and is operably connected to hub 262 to communicate with control computer 264. A command and control application is installed on control computer 264 for monitoring, controlling, and troubleshooting multi-booth system 260 in real time. This command and control application is accomplished through the administrative mode of the software previously discussed, which sends information to the command and control application. In multi-booth situation 260, each image booth enclosure 22 registers with the command and control application on control computer 264 to allow for centralized monitoring and remote control of software settings. The command and control application can show the current status of all image booth enclosures 22 within multi-booth system 260. Statistics including image booth enclosure 22 activity and errors can also be collected by the command and control application. Multi-booth system 260 also includes a cluster of centralized printers 40A-

4OC, which are operably connected to hub 262 through control computer 264 for printing captured images. If one image booth enclosure 22F is located some distance from control computer 264, it can posses its own printer 4OD for convenience. Multi-booth system 260 can also include separate signature computer 266 where guests can input information such as their names and email addresses, as well as select images for printing and/or emailing. Signature computer 266 can operate similarly to second computer 36 described above.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For instance, the particular positioning of a camera within an image booth enclosure of the present invention can vary as desired for particular applications, as can the particular size, shape, and configuration of an image booth frame defining the image booth enclosure. Moreover, the layout and functionality of the online web galleries and email system that make available images captured in the image booth enclosure for viewing and/or printing at remote locations can vary as desired.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An image booth system comprising: a first image booth comprising: a tubular frame capable of disassembly for storage and transport; fabric for covering at least portions of the tubular frame to define an enclosure having a doorway; a case configured to hang from the frame, the case comprising: a camera capable of capturing both still and moving images; at least one actuator operably connected to the camera for selecting either a still image mode or a moving image mode; and a first computer operably connected to the camera and the at least one actuator for controlling operation of the camera and for processing images captured by the camera; and a second computer operably connected to the first computer, the second computer having software stored in computer-readable memory for setting one or more parameters for the first computer, wherein the first computer controls operation of the camera as a function of both operation of the at least one actuator and the one or more parameters set by the second computer.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein the case is collapsible between closed position where the camera is protected for storage and transport, and an open position where the camera is exposed for capturing images.

3. The system of claim 1 wherein a first actuator selects a still image mode for the camera and a second actuator selects a moving image mode for the camera.

4. The system of claim 3 wherein the case has a first portion connected to a second portion by a hinge, the first portion containing lighting components and the camera, the second portion containing a display, the first computer, and the first and second actuators, wherein the first portion and the second portion are capable of folding at the hinge to protect the contents of the case during transport and storage.

5. The system of claim 4 wherein the lighting components are located at a top of the first portion, the camera is located at a bottom of the first portion, the display is located at a top of the second portion, and the first and second actuators are located at a bottom of the second portion.

6. The system of claim 1 wherein the case further comprises: a port providing an Internet connection for the first computer.

7. The system of claim 1 wherein the case further comprises: a handle for hanging the case from the frame; and a case clamp for clamping the case to the frame at a location spaced from the handle.

8. The system of claim 1 wherein the frame further comprises: a hook clamp attached to a tubular member of the frame; and a hook attached to the hook clamp, wherein the clamp and the hook are configured for hanging the case from the frame.

9. The system of claim 1 wherein the frames comprises tubular members color coded to facilitate assembly of the frame.

10. The system of claim 1 further comprising: a second display operably connected to the second computer; an email server operably connected to the second computer; and an Internet connection operably connected to the email server, wherein the system is configured to send emails containing images.

1 1. The system of claim 10 further comprising: a printer operably connected to the second computer.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the image booth system further comprises: a second image booth comprising: a camera capable of capturing both still and moving images; at least one actuator operably connected to the camera for selecting either a still image mode or a moving image mode; and a third computer operably connected to the camera for controlling the camera operation and for processing images captured by the camera, wherein the second computer is operably connected to the third computer, the second computer having software stored in computer-readable memory for setting one or more parameters for the third computer, wherein the third computer controls operation of the camera as a function of both operation of the at least one actuator and the one or more parameters set by the second computer.

13. An image capturing method comprising: assembling at least one image booth containing a camera and a computer operably connected to the camera; establishing parameters for the camera with an administrative mode of software stored in computer-readable memory on the computer operably connected to the camera; capturing at least one image within the image booth with a booth mode of software stored in computer-readable memory on the computer operably connected to the camera; and sending the image to a remote computer via email.

14. The method of claim 13 wherein capturing at least one image includes capturing a plurality of sequential still images, the number of sequential still images being determined by the step of establishing parameters for the camera.

15. The method of claim 13 wherein capturing at least one image includes capturing moving images to create a video.

16. The method of claim 13 further comprising: selecting between a still image mode and moving image mode for the camera.

17. The method of claim 13 wherein assembling at least one image booth includes assembling a plurality of image booths each image booth containing a camera and a computer operably connected to the camera.

18. The method of claim 17 further comprising: registering the computers of each image booth with an administrative mode of software stored in computer-readable memory on a control computer.

19. The method of claim 17 further comprising: gathering data from each image booth with an administrative mode of software stored in computer-readable memory on a control computer.

20. The method of claim 17 further comprising: controlling the operations of each image booth with software stored in computer- readable memory on a control computer.