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# Require Tap to Start vs Auto-Start

Should guests tap the screen to begin, or should the booth start capturing automatically? ALIVE gives you both options.

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## Tap to Start

When enabled, the booth waits on the idle screen until a guest **taps the screen** to begin their session.

**Best for:**

* Events with a booth attendant
* Setups with props and backdrops where guests need time to get ready
* Any event where you want guests to consciously start their session

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## How to Configure

1. Go to **Settings** → **General** on the iPad
2. Toggle **Require Tap to Start Camera** on or off

You can also configure this remotely via the **web dashboard** → **Remote Setup** → **General** section for each event.

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## Auto-Start (Default)

When the tap-to-start requirement is disabled, the booth starts capturing as soon as it detects activity (or after a configured delay). Guests don't need to tap anything. This is the default behavior.

**Best for:**

* Walk-up style booths
* High-traffic events where speed matters
* Unattended setups where you want a seamless experience

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## How to Configure

1. Go to **Settings**
2. Find the **Capture** section
3. Toggle **Require Tap to Start** on or off
4. Save

[screenshot: Require tap to start toggle]

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## Tips

* **Tap to Start is safer** — It prevents the booth from accidentally starting when someone walks by or a kid bumps the screen
* **Auto-Start feels smoother** — But make sure your idle screen clearly signals that the booth is ready, so guests know to step up
* **Test it** — Try both modes before the event to see which feels right for your setup

| If you're using auto-start, make sure your idle screen clearly signals that the booth is ready, so guests know to step up and pose.