Have you taken a “selfie” today? Have you already uploaded the self-portrait to your favorite social networking application? If so, you are one of millions that participate in this phenomenon around the globe. Mobile companies have even modified camera features so that one can improve their selfie game. Just tap to rotate and use the self-timer to capture that flattering pose. Or, how about that selfie stick? You don’t have one, yet? Oh, the horror! Either method, we still can’t seem to get that awkward arm (or stick) outside of the frame. So, I introduce to you the Japanese photo booth called “Purikura.”
Purikura, or プリクラ, is the shortened form of the trademarked name プリント倶楽部 (Purintokurabu) or Print Club. It’s a photo booth that has been, excuse my slang, pimped out! Very popular among Japanese girls, best friends, young couples, and just about anyone who wants to take away a kawaii souvenir from Japan, these booths allow you to personalize photos to be fun and glamorous. The end result is a glossy, post card sized print on quality sticker paper, containing multiple poses and duplicates. Just cut away and share!
Typically found in arcades, 100yen shops, karaoke centers, or near pachinko parlors, purikura are adorned with posters of attractive young women with flawless skin and flattering make-up. Newer machines will have flat screen tv’s attached, showing a short & sweet video of all the unique photo features it has to offer. Here’s a step-by-step instruction of what you can expect:
- 99.8% of instructions are written and spoken in Japanese.
- Make sure you are photo ready and prepared to make screen selections the minute full payment has been made.
- Purikura prices can range from 100yen to 500yen ($1-$5). If necessary, use the moneychanger for exact coin.
- Step through the plastic curtain and into the booth.
- 1-2 persons fit perfectly. 3-4 fit comfortably. 5 or more, let me know how that turns out! Booths are usually W6ft x D10ft x H7ft and standing room only. No chairs.
- Place your belongings on the designated shelf.
- Pay close attention to the screen for further instructions and be aware of the clock timer (time flies when you're having fun!).
- Look straight into the camera for that awesome “selfie” or “groufie.”
- Don’t know how to pose? Follow the model on the screen.
- Say “Cheese!” Haichizu!
Now, it’s time to add some bling to the photos, so put your kawaiiness skills to work! Step outside of the photo booth and into the graffiti/scribble corner to personalize your look and improve the overall design. Do your eyes look small? Skin tone washed out? Lipstick shade too light? Boring background? No problem! Using the attached Stylus pen, tap on the photo you would like improve. Then browse through the various pages on the screen to make your selections. Be bold and change your lip color to Wine Red from the “Make” page. From the “Stamp” collection, add things like cat whiskers, hearts, and stars by using the tap and drag method. Write a personal message from the “Pen” menu. Lastly, turn up the volume on the radio to make your wait time for printing more exciting! Your digital print will soon be ready for pick up from the drop slot on the outside of the booth. If prompted, enter an email address so you can upload those selfies to Instagram! #selfieinjapan
