How many times have you scrolled through your Walt Disney World pictures and seen the same poses in basically the same spots throughout the parks? When we visit Disney we tend to get caught up in wait times and fast passes stopping only occasionally to smile and run to the next adventure. What some of us don’t know is Disney PhotoPass Photographers are equipped with an adventure of their own: they can add “magic” to our pictures and create unique and fun souvenirs that will last forever. These Magic Shots are available throughout all four Walt Disney World theme parks and vary per theme, season and location.
When you are taking a picture with a Disney PhotoPass Photographer they might ask you to do a strange but fun pose, usually looking surprised at the ground or amused at your arm. Once the picture is taken the magic happens and is added to your picture, this photo will appear on the app on your phone or available to be viewed at any PhotoPass Kiosk. Be patient with these as magic takes time and pictures can take five or more hours to be ready.Your picture will look something like this:
Photographers are everywhere in Walt Disney World and although not all have Magic Shots available I find it is best to ask each one so as to not miss any. Another way to track them down is by following Disney PhotoPass Services on Facebook and Instagram, here they share albums with the current offerings per park and sometimes include where in the park they can be found.
There are many variations of Magic Shots available, some are animated others are still and some have Disney characters while others add effects to your picture. Most Magic Shots are great for groups and families but if you are flying solo around the parks there are shots specifically geared towards individuals. Magic Shots update regularly and try to keep up with the current season or Disney movie/show trending. Some most common ones like Tinker Bell or Mickey balloons are constantly available and do not change much. To give you a jump start for your next Disney picture hunt, I have explored a few of my favorites and added below with the location where they can be found.
1. Disney's Animal Kingdom
Who can’t help but sing at the top of our lungs every time we hear “Colors of the Wind” by Pocahontas? Well, now we can look just like her with the floating leaves shot. This one is available in various locations throughout Animal Kingdom such as behind the Tree of Life and near the entrance of the park. Other shots available at this park include “A Bug’s Life” characters, Wilderness Explorer badges and two special shots at the new Pandora: The World of Avatar.
2. Disney's Hollywood Studios
Of course many of us celebrate our birthday at Disney and have always wanted to hold the balloons and smile for the picture. Now you have the opportunity to hold the Mickey balloons without a Cast Member holding the other end and possibly appearing in your picture. All you have to do is smile and hold your hand up, the rest is up to magic. Hollywood Studios also features “Star Wars” and “Frozen” Magic Shots.
3. Epcot
In front of the waterfall at the Norway Pavilion Olaf will bring his warm hugs and snow flurries to your pictures. Check out Figment, Pascal and Mushu jumping into your pictures in various locations.
4. Disney’s Magic Kingdom
If you grew up watching Peter Pan and love the Pixie Hollow fairies then this is the shot for you. Right across the bridge from the castle courtyard to Liberty Square you will be able to show off your fairy wings and with some faith, trust and pixie dust you can keep those forever in your picture! Also at Magic Kingdom watch out for the Hitchhiking Ghosts near the Haunted Mansion and keep an eye out for Dumbo flying over Storybook Circus and into your pictures.
So prep your Instagram because your next Disney vacation will be filled with wonderful pictures that all your friends and family will love.
