I want to setup an instant picture facility outside a small attraction
we run. Would like to use off the shelf components, hardware &
software (if possible).

I'm assuming it would require a decent digital camera with lead for
permanent attachment to a computer.

I'd need software to run on the computer so that someone could have
their photo taken (manually, by a member of our staff) at the front of
the attraction and by the time they have walked thru (about 3 mins) I
can display the photo on a screen at the end of the attraction.

If they like it, we immediately print off a decent copy they can take
away with them. (Assuming postcard size picture)

Assuming the camera and printer are fairly straightforward (but I need
advice for models) however the software may be harder - I'd prefer
something relatively cheap.

May need to print out several hundred per day, so would need to handle
this kind of capacity. Prefer off the shelf as it keeps the cost down
and will allow us to replace parts easily.

The budget could be pretty flexible - I'd rather spend a bit extra to
get equipment that will last...

Thanks

You might want to consider combining a digital camera with a kiosk,
such as those marketed by Polaroid, Kodak, or Fuji Film.

It would reduce everything to two items.

Here's the Polaroid version:

"Instant Digital Prints Kiosk
The new Polaroid Instant Digital Prints kiosk is the world?s fastest
way to print digital camera photos. As simple and fast as an ATM
machine, the Polaroid kiosk lets you select just the photos you want
and specify the quantity of each. Then the machine takes only seconds
to print all your photos. You can select, print, and pay for 24
snapshots in less than two minutes.

The prints look and feel like those from traditional 35mm film
developing. In fact, unlike traditional prints, Polaroid digital
prints are tear-proof, waterproof, and fingerprints can be wiped away.

The Polaroid Instant Digital Prints kiosk is completely self-service,
just like using an ATM or the many other self-service experiences you
use every week."

http://www.polaroid.com/global/detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524441760110&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574488338434&bmUID=1073051337255&PRDREG=null

hlabadie-ga

hlabadie,

Thanks for the comment, unfortunately we need to keep the equipment
fairly portable as it will regularly be transported from site to site.
The kiosk is not bad, but too bulky for what we're looking for.

We'd prefer something that's off the shelf with components (i.e. brand
name camera, printer etc).

Hope that helps - and thanks again..