By Martine St. Hilaire + Photos by Maybeline Despagne
When Jean Paul Laraque talks about his journey, it’s clear he’s not just running a business—he’s crafting a legacy. Born in Haiti, a land rich with creativity, culture, and resilience, Jean Paul’s earliest influences came from his homeland’s deep appreciation for art, storytelling, and human connection.
“Growing up in Haiti, I developed a strong appreciation for art, storytelling, and the beauty of human connection—values that have guided me throughout my career,” says Jean Paul Laraque.
For more than 20 years, Jean Paul was a force behind the camera, co-founding the production company GRAPHCITY and directing over 400 commercials for major brands like Bongu, Digicel, and the U.S. Embassy in Haiti. His work in advertising and filmmaking earned him both local and international recognition, but in early 2024, he set his sights on a new creative challenge—one that would bring his cinematic expertise directly to people’s most cherished life moments.
That vision became BoothLa Rentals, a Miami-based company that offers premium, cinematic photo booth experiences. Unlike traditional booths, BoothLa is designed with the eye of a filmmaker—professional lighting, cinematic backdrops, and an atmosphere that makes guests feel like movie stars.
“I wanted to create a service that offered more than just photos—it’s about delivering an elevated, cinematic experience where clients feel like they’re in the spotlight,” Jean Paul explains.
From Architecture to Advertising to Artful Memories
Jean Paul’s creative foundation began in architecture school, where he learned the discipline of structure, design, and detail. He later studied video and television production in Reno, Nevada, blending technical skills with an instinct for storytelling. These experiences, combined with collaborations like his work with Maybelline Photography, sharpened his ability to blend artistry with precision—a skill set that would become the signature of BoothLa Rentals.
His commitment to creativity extends beyond his own ventures. Over the years, Jean Paul has mentored young talent through programs like Jacmel’s Ciné Institute and FOKAL. He also co-founded cultural events such as Kreata Expo and Haiti Portrait in 2014 and Oxygen Expo in 2015 and 2017, fostering innovation in the Haitian creative community.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Launching BoothLa Rentals came with hurdles. One of the biggest was educating clients on why BoothLa’s service was different from a standard photo booth. “Many people didn’t immediately recognize the added value of professional lighting, filmmaking techniques, and storytelling in creating unforgettable memories,” he recalls.
Another challenge was the nature of last-minute bookings—demanding a nimble approach to logistics without sacrificing quality. Yet, each obstacle became a stepping stone, reinforcing BoothLa’s brand as a service that delivers under pressure while exceeding expectations.
Milestones in Motion
Despite being less than a year old, BoothLa Rentals has achieved remarkable momentum—securing consistent bookings in a competitive market and building a reputation for premium, personalized service. Clients praise the cinematic touch and the feeling of stepping into a professional film set. Word-of-mouth referrals and repeat customers have propelled the brand forward, positioning it as Miami’s go-to for events that want style, quality, and originality.
Looking ahead to 2025, Jean Paul envisions expanding BoothLa’s reach to at least four events a week, strengthening its social media presence, and introducing 360-degree video booths with cinematic lighting. The long-term vision? National and international recognition as the leader in cinematic photo booth experiences.
The Driving Force
Ask Jean Paul what keeps him going, and his answer is simple: “I believe in the transformative nature of creativity.” Whether filming commercials in Haiti or setting up an event in Miami, his mission is to bring joy, beauty, and meaning into people’s lives. For him, the power of storytelling isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about connection.
Why BoothLa Stands Out
• Cinematic Quality: Professional lighting and film-inspired aesthetics.
• Personalized Service: Tailored setups and themes.
• Expertise: 20+ years in filmmaking and photography.
• Flexibility: Ready for last-minute bookings without compromise.
• Memorable Moments: Transforming snapshots into works of art.
As Jean Paul puts it, “BoothLa isn’t just about photos; it’s about crafting unforgettable memories that make every guest feel like a star.”
A Call to Celebrate, Haitian Style
Jean Paul Jean Paul’s journey from Haitian film sets to Miami’s vibrant event scene is proof that artistry and entrepreneurship can walk hand in hand. His story reflects the resilience of Haiti’s creative spirit and the innovation of a mind that refuses to stop evolving. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or private celebration, BoothLa Rentals offers more than just a keepsake—it offers an experience.
Follow BoothLa Rentals on Instagram @boothla_rentals or visit www.boothlarentals.com to see how you can put your next event in the spotlight.
