Students iSnap selfies in Graham Center

Image by Andrew Fysh, courtesy of Creative Commons. 

Natalie Alatriste/Contributing Writer

With the trending topic of selfies taking over social media channels, the University couldn’t pass up on the new fad.

The school has smiled in the background of multiple selfies taken by students using the new iSnap photo booth, which currently sits in the Graham Center.

The University Division of External Relations office purchased the photo booth about a year ago—a starter model—and later upgraded to the current booth that sits against a wall between tables in the middle GC.

The iSnap photo booth is a presence-based marketing technique where guests can share photos on social media to expand interaction, according to its website.

Jodi Ann Reid, assistant director of social media in External Relations, brought iSnap to campus with the help of Eduardo Merille, director of marketing and new media, and Ryan Morejon, social media community manager. They’ve been in charge of its use since then.[pullquote]“I think spending $5,000 for something that isn’t needed seems wasteful—that money could’ve been applied to something much more useful, such as student resources,” said Raquel Aymerich, sophomore biology major.[/pullquote]

“It was initially used to keep [the concept of] the frame alive—to keep the conversation about FIU going on social media outlets,” said Merille. “The goal was to add to our hashtag campaigns.”

iSnap was first brought to the University to be used specifically at commencement ceremonies, and has since been used in multiple events on campus, such as open house.

The machine cost about $5,000, and comes from allotted funds given to the External Relations’ Marketing and New Media. There is a $50 monthly maintenance fee, which includes software updates.

While many students are fond of the purchase, some find it to be alarming.

Raquel Aymerich, a sophomore majoring in biology, doesn’t think the expense was worth it.

“I think spending $5,000 for something that isn’t needed seems wasteful—that money could’ve been applied to something much more useful, such as student resources,” she said over the phone. “I’ve seen it on campus and if people wanted selfies, they can use their cell phones.”

https://soundcloud.com/fiusmonline/isnap-rec-4

By renting it out to others, though, the External Relations office is able to recover its cost. This business model was part of the original idea of the project.

However, it’s only been rented out for two events for $300 each.

The office doesn’t charge for certain events, such as commencement or open house.

There is currently only one booth, which is in the pilot stage, according to Merille, and the department is unsure of purchasing a second one.

Merille said it’s all about strategic placing to get the most use out of it.

“At commencement, we placed it [where the graduates come in] so they can take pictures and post it on social media outlets,” he said.

The booth is easy to use—students can simply take their photo, sign in to their social media accounts, add a message, tag friends and share.

Pictures are also posted on the FIU iSnap website. The pictures feature a custom-made frame—resembling polaroids—depending on the event you attend.

Merille, Reid and Morejon, all FIU alumni, are in charge of customizing the frame artwork.

They also manage the pictures uploaded to the websites, making sure that they are appropriate.

“Sometimes you don’t get students, you just get people that don’t know what they’re doing—like the staff,” said Morejon. “It’s actually kind of funny. They just look super confused.”

FIU is one of seven universities across the country that have incorporated iSnap as a part of their marketing approach. It is, however, the only school in Florida using iSnap.

Students at the University have seemed enthusiastic with the purchase, as students are seen snapping selfies every day by the GC pit.

The photo booth has taken nearly 1,800 photos and counting.

Francisco Ripoll, a junior majoring in broadcast media, really enjoys the marketing tool.

“I think it’s really a great addition to the school—it shows FIU is tech savvy, and so many people find it enjoyable,” he said.

“Now, it’s going to be a constant struggle of what I do between classes—should I eat? Or should I take a selfie?”