Welcome to a space between dream and reality, mind and matter.
For one weekend only at Spook Empire, Studio Shay transforms into The Velvet Room
About our Booth
Step inside The Velvet Room: a limited-run portrait experience created exclusively for Spooky Empire. Inspired by Victorian parlors, gothic elegance, and the theatrical world of dark fantasy, this booth transforms your convention look into a dramatic, fine-art portrait you'll want to frame.
This is not a standard photo booth.
This is a Studio Shay experience reimagined for the shadows.
How it works
Step 1
Sign the Contract. Step across the threshold with a $25 session fee to secure your exclusive time under our cinematic studio lights. Our team will guide you through fast, professional posing to lock in your most striking angles.
Session Fee
$ 25
Step 2
Assemble Your Party. Our custom built space comfortably accommodates up to 3 guests for maximum visual impact. (Traveling as a family of 4? No worries, we can stretch the rules of the room to fit your full party.)
Sessions accomidate
Groups up to 3
Step 3
Manifest Your Rewards. Your session includes 2 high-resolution digital downloads of your choice, viewable through your personal gallery. Love them all? You can easily upgrade to our full digital Compendium, archival prints, or framed editions.
Prints From
$7
Manifested Upgrades
Turn your portraits into mementos! More prints, complete archives, eternal memories.
The Physical Manifestation
Pull your portrait out of the digital ether. One stunning, archival 4x6 matte print to hold in your hands and carry back to reality.
$7
Bundle and save 3 for $15
The Portrait Compendium
Receive the complete set of digital files from your session. Perfect for sharing across the digital realm. Your gallery will stay live for 14 days for easy downloading and safekeeping.
$30
The Confidant Edition
A bond forged in gold. Your archival 4x6 print, presented in a sleek, protective frame.
For every Confidant Edition selected, Studio Shay will donate $1 directly to The Trevor Project to support life-saving crisis services for LGBTQ+ youth.
$15
The velvet room queue system
01.Claim Your Arcana
Visit the Studio Shay booth early to lock in your session. Our team will hand you a physical Tarot Card lanyard sealed with a designated return time sticker. No endless lines, no wasted con time.
the contract has been signed
02.Explore the Realm
Once you have your card, you are free. Go wander Spooky Empire, check out the horror vendors, hit your favorite panels, or fix your cosplay. Your portrait spot is strictly guaranteed and completely safe with us.
time is ticking
03.Heed the Calling
Check the precise hour stamped on the back of your Tarot sleeve. When your designated time arrives, make your way back to the Studio Shay booth. Please note: To respect everyone's con time, your guaranteed "skip-the-line" window expires at the end of your hour. Keep a close eye on the clock, travelers!
Skeleton keys are limited
04.Enter the Velvet Room
Hand your lanyard over to our Velvet Room attendant at the front desk to initiate your session. If you arrive within your designated hour, you'll be fast-tracked right into the room. If you happen to miss your window, do not panic-your $25 contract is still valid! However, you will be placed into our Standby Queue, and we will slide you into the booth at the next available opening between on-time guests.
A note on Delayed Destiny
We know the convention floor is chaotic and time loops happen. If you miss your priority hour, your session fee is non-refundable, but your portrait is still guaranteed. You won't lose your money; you'll just lose your priority spot and will need to wait in our Standby line until a vacancy opens up.
Sign the Contract.
The Velvet Room is waiting.
FAQ
How long does a session take?
Most sessions are take just a few minutes.You'll get access to your digital gallery as soon as it's uploaded.
Do I need to book ahead?
No scheduling needed! We run a walk-up system to keep things easy and flexible so you can stop by whenever it fits your day. If the line gets long, we'll use our Hall Pass system so you can explore the con while holding your place.
What do I get with my session?
You receive an email with a private online gallery. Two digital downloads are included with your session fee. Within your gallery, you'll have the option to upgrade to the full (digital) gallery.
Can I bring friends?
Yes! But keep in mind that due to our small footprint we can only accommodate groups up to 3 per session. If you'd like larger group pictures, you may inquire for after-hours pricing.
Do you offer prints on the spot?
Yes. You can choose 4x6 or 2x6 strips. Or the full printed gallery.
Can I get the full gallery?
Yes. The All Inclusive option gives you every image plus the full printed set (10 prints).
What if I'm in cosplay?
Perfect! This booth is designed for cosplayers, and creators who want clean, flattering portraits.
How do I receive my digital photos?
Your gallery is delivered instantly by email. It will be up for 30 days from the final day of the event.
What kind of payments do you accept?
We accept tap, swipe, chip, and cash. Fast and simple.
