Photoboxes Proliferate in Public Spaces as Group Photo Sessions Become Part of Hanging Out

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Small booths equipped with cameras have become increasingly common amidst city activities.

From shopping centers and popular hangout spots like Blok M to Transjakarta Bundaran HI bus stops, photoboxes offer a unique, self-service photo-taking experience.

One such photobox can be found in the Blok M area of South Jakarta.

A red and white cabin stands outside, next to tables and chairs where visitors relax.

The cabin is labeled "PHOTOBOX" at the top, featuring illustrations on its front panel.

A similar concept is seen in the Selfie Time photobox, which operates on a self-service basis — customers don’t require assistance from staff.

All procedures are managed through a screen inside the booth, from choosing the product, making payment, selecting photo layouts, capturing images, picking frames, to printing the photos.

The screen offers options for strip and collage formats, priced between Rp 25,000 and Rp 50,000.

After printing, visitors can scan the photo to obtain a digital version.

On one photobox’s wall, dozens of customer photos are arranged in a heart-shaped pattern.

The pictures show groups of friends, couples, and families in various poses and frames.

The presence of photoboxes in public spaces has made this photo-taking activity, previously associated mainly with entertainment venues or malls, increasingly integrated into daily youth culture.

For Sabrina (27), a photobox attendant in Blok M, the customer experience goes beyond merely pressing the camera button.

“Usually, customers discuss their poses before entering the booth,” she explained during an interview on Thursday (17/9/2026).

Groups come in twos, threes, or larger gatherings.

"The ones who seem most enthusiastic are often large groups. They've already been excitedly planning their poses and who stands where even before stepping inside," Sabrina said.

She noted that many customers learn about the photobox from TikTok or Instagram.

However, quite a few only discover it by chance when they pass by and see sample photos on display.

“Sometimes they already know they want to take photos because of TikTok or Instagram,” Sabrina added.

During a visit, customers don’t always stop after one session.

After reviewing their photos, some choose to retake shots if they feel expressions are off or someone blinked.

Prices range from around Rp 50,000 to Rp 70,000 depending on the package selected, she said.

When visiting with friends, costs are typically split.

"If four people come, for example, and the cost is Rp 60,000, it’s about Rp 15,000 each. They consider it affordable entertainment," she added.