Melbourne, Australia — Spirit of the Photobooth, a new feature documentary exploring the enduring magic, cultural appeal and emotional pull of the photobooth, will have a special work-in-progress screening at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival on July 17th.
In a time when images are endlessly filtered, edited, shared and commoditized, the film celebrates an analog ritual that remains gloriously alive. True to this spirit, the film follows a global community of photobooth enthusiasts: owners, operators, artists and collectors who have brought this art form back to life and also helped it to draw in a new generation of Gen Z fans.
The film also tells the extraordinary story of Anatol Josepho, the visionary figure who invented the first photobooth, with its public debut in New York City in September 1926, making portraiture instant, affordable and accessible to everyone.
From Anatal Josepho’s remarkable origin story, Spirit of the Photobooth traces how a simple and accessible machine became a democratic portrait studio: a place where people could reveal themselves in spontaneous, intimate, and unforgettable ways. The resulting film is funny and poignant, surprising and life affirming.
Executive producer Sharon Josepho brings a unique personal connection to this project. She is the granddaughter of Anatol Josepho, the original inventor of the photobooth. Her involvement links the film directly to the story’s beginnings while also helping to carry that legacy forward to a new generation.
“We are thrilled to share Spirit of the Photobooth with a live audience at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival,” said Sharon Josepho. “This work-in-progress screening is a chance to feel the film in the room — to see what resonates, what moves people, and how audiences connect with this remarkable story. We’re also excited to take part in a panel discussion with Melbourne’s most storied photobooth operators, Chris and Jessie, from Metro Atuo Photo.”
The film is written and directed by celebrated filmmaker Sam Anthony. The executive producers are Sharon Josepho, Ricky Kelehar and P.G. Morgan.
Spirit of the Photobooth screens July 17th at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival.
Press Contact:
P.G. Morgan
E: pgwynnemorgan@gmail.com
Ph: +44 7515 955921