PhotoPass 201: Getting the Most Out of Disney’s PhotoPass

Disney’s PhotoPass, a complimentary photography service, is located throughout the Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts from the parks to the resorts and beyond! With so many chances to strike a pose, here are a few tips to get the most out of the service, especially if you’re planning to purchase Memory Maker at Walt Disney World or the digital downloads at Disneyland! And while these tips feature mostly Walt Disney World captures, many of the tips apply at Disneyland, as well.

1. Stop at Multiple Photographers Shooting the Same Thing

As we saw in PhotoPass 101, the skill level of photographers varies greatly. In the high traffic areas such as Main Street U.S.A, you’ll pass at least half a dozen photographers. Stop at two, three or all of them. All it costs you is time, and unless you have somewhere to be or are trying to hit the headliners before the queues are packed, that’s not to shabby. You can always come back, as these areas have photographers most of the day. However, stop at least twice while you’re fresh and prior to sweat, frizz and Mickey bar stained shirts.

You do run the risk of wandering family members with this tip. The gpa dipped before we got to the castle.  😉

2. Turn Around

Of course you’re going to glam it up and ham it up in front of Cinderella Castle, but after you get that iconic snap, turn around and say hey from Main Street U.S.A. Most photographers are happy to shoot from either angle. The only problem you may run into is photogs with tripods, especially at night, as they’ve adjusted settings to the scene they’re facing.

3. Try A Different Perspective

Photographers are stationed in the obvious spots, but did you know there are also photogs on the side of the Castle and behind the Tree of Life?  Stop for pictures in these not-as-obvious spots, too.

Behind the Tree of Life

4. Come Back at a Different Time of Day

Chances are you’ll stop for a photo in front of Spaceship Earth on your way into the park, but have you seen her at night? 

5. Play with the Characters

Characters love to have fun with their guests! After the 82nd *hug-autograph-say “Mickeeeeey”-snap* they’re ready to mix it up a bit. Propose to a princess, give Mickey a smooch, compare biceps with Gaston…whatever comes to mind. If you draw a blank, often the photographers or handlers have suggestions. Just don’t yell “Andy’s coming!” to the Toy Story crew. It’s not happening.

6. Let Loose

Speaking of typical pics, we start to get bored with the “pretend we’re a normal family” shot. Again, you can grab those pics, but once it’s done, be silly. You’re in Disney, for Pete’s sake. Everyone there is at least slightly dorky, so strike a pose, blow a raspberry or just be plain goofy. They’ll be laughing with you, promise!

P.S. Two points for me for a double character reference in that paragraph!

7. Ask for Magic Shots

These are always a big hit! Magic shots are photos where the photographer will ask you to do something slightly awkward, but when you see the result, it’s usually pretty adorable. If the camera is on a tripod, they typically cannot do Magic Shots, but there’s no harm in asking every photog you stop for if he or she can do them.

This is just a small sampling of the shots available. Some of these particular shots are seasonal or may no longer be in rotation. Again, worst you can hear is “no” if you’re looking for a particular shot.

Magic Tip: If you get to your account and see that the Magic Shot is missing its magic, contact PhotoPass via the web site, and they’ll gladly throw some pixie dust at the problem and make sure you don’t just look like you’re really excited about your empty hands.

8. Keep Your Eyes Open Before Parades

Photographers often wander by shortly before the parade reaches your spot with these cute signs to commemorate the parade or special events. 

9. Look for Special Shots

From super zoom videos to specialized lenses and light tricks, there are unique shots scattered throughout the parks, especially during special events and holiday seasons!

10. Tell the Photographer You’ve Purchased Memory Maker

If you’ve purchased Memory Maker, let the photog know. Most of them will snap away. If they don’t, just let them know you’d like a few more poses. If there’s no one waiting for his or her attention, they’re typically glad to oblige. Now get out there and get ready for your close up!

What are your favorite tips for getting the most out of Disney’s PhotoPass service?  Or what would you add to our list? Tell us in the comments!