The creepy photo booths

Near Arena Berlin, there are two photo booths. Since the pandemic, they’ve barely been used - at least whenever I’ve passed by. The one right in front of the Badeschiff gate feels especially strange when it’s empty; you only hear the wind and the distant sounds of the city. Still, I always get the feeling that something might happen if I step inside. It reminds me of the concept of liminal spaces: places that were once full of life but now feel empty, evoking nostalgia, lostness, and uncertainty¹. They seem to exist outside of time, suspended between what was and whatever comes next. The pandemic created many of these uncomfortable liminal spaces, as transitions are always stressful - especially when we don’t know what’s ahead.

The photo booth seems to embody this feeling even more. The whole Photoautomat restoration project is rooted in nostalgia, and it’s a bit sad to see these booths empty again. Maybe it’s just a longing for the past, but I think it also connects to the analog experience in general. Four shots on Polaroid-like film—unique, tangible, and certainly more memorable than a quick smartphone selfie.

I hope these booths will see life again soon, bringing joy and new memories to whoever steps inside.