Baden teen talks entrepreneurship and his photo booth business, Tanorama

Corbin Tan operates his Tanorama open-air photo booth while a guest poses for pictures at a recent birthday party. Contributed photo

By Amanda Modaragamage

Corbin Tan is a 19-year-old entrepreneur based in Baden. After completing his first year in university with straight As in biology, Tan felt there was something different he was meant to pursue, which led him toward a new career in entrepreneurship.

While growing up, Tan watched his father build businesses around his love for music. From running company offering music lessons to starting Tan Music Academy and Services, which focused on teaching music theory, Tan saw firsthand the benefits of starting and managing a company — and he felt this was the path meant for him.

“It was just simply because I wanted to change paths,” said Tan. “I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur and I wanted to start a business of my own, so that’s what I set out to do.”

His father, whom Tan always looked up to, showed him that pursuing a career he loves is key to freedom in everyday life.

“I really look up to him,” said Tan. “I come from a family of five, and I’ve always had a present father and a present mother in my life because my dad had his own business and that really showed me the possibilities of someday owning my own business, too.”

Looking for a business opportunity that was affordable to start and valuable to the Baden community, Tan found inspiration at events he attended.

“I had attended a few events where there were photo booths and I thought, ‘These are amazing, why aren’t these available at all events?’ ” he said. “I started to do some research and realized there is a market for photo booths, so I went headfirst into it.”

His business, Tanorama — a play on his name and the word “panorama” — offers luxury, open-air and 360-degree booth rentals for weddings, corporate events, school functions and private celebrations. The focus is on creating high-quality, fun and memorable experiences for clients.

“I always loved photography, especially print photography,” Tan said. “I know there are so many people who take so many photos on their phone, but they basically never see them again after they take the picture. I thought the idea of printing out photos was almost novel and such a great keepsake.”

With Tanorama’s open-air setups, instead of stepping inside a small, enclosed booth, people pose in front of the kiosk with a backdrop or open space behind them. This allows for larger group photos and more flexibility.

“We use newer technology than your typical classic photo booth,” said Tan. “It’s an open-air space, almost like a kiosk where people have lots of room to set up and take great pictures together.”

In the end, Tan said the business is about more than just financial success — it’s about learning and growing, no matter where it leads.

“I want to prove that it’s possible,” he said. “I’m only going to fail if I give up.”

Tanorama offers a self-service photo station that feels more interactive, letting people capture full-body shots or large group selfies — perfect for weddings, parties, or corporate functions.

For more information or bookings, visit www.tanorama.ca.