Ultimate Disney Parks Photography Guide

ByTom Bricker
255 Comments

Looking for the best camera or lenses, tips for taking great photos or to improve your photography? This guide offers tutorials to take better photos in a variety of scenes at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and beyond! (Updated July 17, 2024.)

These tips will help you take better photos of Disney fireworks, dark rides, Cinderella Castle, and much more that’s specific to the parks. However, the first thing you should do is learn the basics of photography. For this, I highly recommend a copy of UnderstandingExposure, which covers the technical side of photography. For understanding what makes for an aesthetically pleasing photo, read The Photographer’s Eye, which covers composition.

All of the expensive equipment in the world won’t help you if you haven’t learned the basics, and those two books are the best way to learn the basics and how to take photos that aren’t just snapshots. Books are how I taught myself photography and many others have done the same. Books are a lot cheaper than a new lens, and if you’re a beginner, those will improve your photography more than a new gear. You are better off with an iPhone plus skill and knowledge than a $10,000 camera and cluelessness.

Along those lines, realize that no camera “takes good pictures.” Some cameras can help an adept photographer more than others, but if the person taking the photos doesn’t do things right, photos taken with a fancy camera can look worse than photos taken with an iPhone. Likewise, many experienced photographers can take better photos with an iPhone than inexperienced photographers can with expensive DSLRs on Auto Mode.

This guide will primarily focus on providing you with resources for learning more about photography, so you can really take your photos to the next level. If you’re sitting around at home practicing social distancing or self-quarantining, the good news is that this is the perfect time to learn photography!

It’s surprisingly easy to improve your photography at home, alternating between reading books and practicing with subjects around your house or in your backyard (my #1 subject for testing out new photography techniques is our cat!). Knowledge is so much more important than equipment, and once you learn more about photography, you realize you don’t need to waste additional money on more equipment!

With that update out of the way, let’s continue with a few of my favorite photography books…

Disney Photography Tips

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We’ve done a number of blog posts providing tips for improving your photography at Disney. I can’t stress enough that knowledge is the biggest component of taking good photos at Walt Disney World (and beyond!) so you should really read some of the tutorials I’ve written. They have helped a lot of people.

You should read these after you read Understanding Exposure. These guides all assume you have a decent foundation to understand the basics of photography, and you might be confused by these if you don’t know the basics:

This just scratches the surface on the photography guides we’ve written. To read and learn more, browse the photography category of posts on the blog. Once you’ve learned a bit, it might be time to buy some new equipment to help you take better photos. Read on for our buying suggestions…

Cameras

The first thing you need to do is determine which type of camera is right for you. Over the past decade, I’ve tested 20+ cameras and talked with hundreds of beginners who wondered which camera to buy. From that, I’ve learned that the “right” camera for a beginner is almost entirely a matter of personal preference and goals.

For the vast majority of people, modern camera phones are more than capable. Newer models of the iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel–and probably other phones with which I’m unfamiliar–are all fantastic. If you’re simply sharing on social media and don’t have demanding conditions, specific use cases, or need the highest quality, camera phones are probably good enough. They are the right answer for 90% of people, which is a big reason why the camera market is shrinking. I even regularly forgo taking my big camera bag and just use my phone!

Let’s assume that, for whatever reason, you want a dedicated camera. When thinking about which type to buy, you have to think about your intent. Are you primarily interested in capturing quality photos of your family’s memorable moments on vacation? Consider a nice point & shoot. Concerned about camera size and weight? Go point & shoot. Want an starter camera that will make learning easier? Again, think point & shoot.

We think the Sony RX100 is the best point & shoot camera line on the market. I’ve used multiple different versions of this camera since it launched over a decade ago, and have been wowed by all of them. Unfortunately, Sony hasn’t updated this line in a few years and the RX100 VII is still really expensive despite that. You might be able to pick up a used or older model cheaper–and I’d recommend considering that. Mine is still going strong 5 years later.

Another alternative would be opting for the Sony ZV-1, which is a newer camera that costs less than half the price of the Rx100 VII. It’s marketed at vloggers, meaning that it’s also very capable of video. As someone who exclusively does photography, this isn’t a selling point for me. But it’s fairly undeniable that the Sony ZV-1 offers better bang for buck, and is a nice upgrade from iPhone quality photos and videos.

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Everything above that is either going to be a DSLR (if you’re old school) or a mirrorless camera. My two main cameras now are the Nikon Z7 II full frame mirrorless camera and Nikon D850 DSLR. Both of these are pro grade cameras that offer unparalleled performance. They’re not cheap, and are only recommended for those who are truly serious about photography and have unmet needs by lower-tier cameras. I would not recommend anyone learning photography purchase either of these.

Honestly, I’m not sure which entry-level “big” cameras I would recommend at this point. My camera testing and reviewing days are behind me, and I’ve been so satisfied with the Nikon D850 and then the Nikon Z7 II that I haven’t bounced around trying other cameras in the last ~5 years. Consequently, I’ve become a bit out of touch with entry level models and what Canon, Nikon, Sony, and other brands are doing to innovate.

If you want look at the equipment I currently carry, check out What’s In My Camera Bag for 2024. That’s going to be the best resource if you’re interested in going with a full frame Nikon mirrorless camera and are wondering which lenses to purchase.

Ultimately, which of these cameras you buy depends upon how serious you are about photography. If you’re just getting started, no matter how excited you are about photography, it’s probably smart to not buy anything above an entry level model, no matter how large your budget.

Guide Conclusion

As mentioned above, the vast majority of people just getting started in photography are probably best suited by a high-end point and shoot camera, with my absolute top pick being the Sony RX100. This is a great way to get a taste of serious photography with customizable settings and excellent image quality, but in a compact package. Most people won’t outgrow that camera, but if you do, then look at DSLRs or mirrorless cameras.

If you’ve already decided that a DSLR camera is your best option, you’ll want to think about everything you need to go along with it to really take your photography to the next level. If you’re on a limited budget, start out by making 3 upgrades: 1) tripod, 2) wide angle lens, 3) prime portrait lens or mid-range zoom lens. I’d say these are the 3 best purchases a new photographer of the Disney Parks can make to improve their game.

However, if you really want to take your photography to the next level, gear is not what you need–at least not exclusively. What you need is knowledge. You will never take amazing photos in auto mode. You need to start by getting a copy of Understanding Exposure to learn the fundamentals, and then read more advance books, tutorials, and practice like crazy. Anyone can become great at photography, but you can’t get there just by purchasing fancy toys. 🙂

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Finally, a word of warning. Don’t take shortcuts when buying photography equipment. Yes, it’s expensive, but I’ve discovered first-hand that buying photo gear on eBay or Craigslist is a huge risk. You don’t know how the seller took care of their gear, if it’s grey market (meaning US manufacturers won’t service it if there’s a problem), or what problems may come up down the road. You also don’t save that much over buying new. Finally, you don’t get a warranty. Things do go wrong with cameras, seemingly inexplicably, and it would really stink for that $1,000 investment to break with no recourse for you.

We’re Amazon Prime members, so we almost always order from Amazon.com. I also recommend Adorama.com, B&H Photo, or Abes of Maine, but I generally avoid all other online photo retailers (I STRONGLY recommend avoiding J&R Cameras due to two negative experiences I’ve had with them). By the way, if you are considering a purchase of any photography equipment, lenses, or anything else for that matter we would greatly appreciate it if you use the links in this post to make your purchase. It benefits the site, doesn’t cost you a dime, and helps us to keep providing you with useful(?) content!

Your Thoughts

What have you found helped improve your photography? Have other photography tips of your own to add? Other gear recommendations? If you have questions, please leave them in the comments below and I’ll try my best to help!

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255 Comments

  1. I am surprised that you say to avoid J&R. I don’t remember buying anything from them, but I do know that I have considered them on purchases in the past as I thought that they were a reputable company.

    Is there any particular reason they should be avoided?

    Reply

    1. We have had two negative experiences at J&R, the second of which sealed the deal. I was one of the first people to pre-order the D7000 (from them), and when other retailers started shipping their cameras, mine didn’t ship. So I waited, and waited, and finally called when Amazon had shipped its THIRD round of cameras. The person on the phone was incredibly rude, and wanted us to re-place the order through him over the phone (presumably for commission). Didn’t do that, but accepted his ultimate assurance that it would ship in the next couple of days.

      The next week (it still hadn’t shipped), I read of other people having a similar issue on forums, and the rumor was that instead of filling pre-orders, they had been putting the cameras on the shelves of their NYC superstore. Regardless of whether that was true, I decided to cancel my order.

      The very next day, B&H got inventory in, I placed an order, and had it 2 days later. I’m convinced that had I placed my order with B&H or Amazon to begin with, I would have had the camera on release day, and wouldn’t have dealt with J&R’s crap for over a month.

      I’m sure other people have had fine experiences with them, but for that, I will never buy from them again, and recommend that others don’t, either.

    2. Wow, that stinks. I wouldn’t return to them after that either. I guess the old adage is true: “Give somebody good service, they’ll tell one person. Give them bad service, they’ll tell ten.” Although, in this case is probably more like hundreds or thousands. 🙂

      I, too, like B&H and use them for just about all my large purchases. Even though they close business often for religious observance, they’re very quick to ship and I’ll often have my item before the estimated delivery date.

      On a related note, are there any places you use beside B&H and Amazon? I’ve been looking to get the Lowepro Flipside 400AW backpack and B&H had it for something like $115 around Christmas. Now it’s $200 and Amazon has always had it around $180 (although it’s now on sale for $160). However, I’m the kind of guy who’ll wait for the price to come back down knowing that they’ve offered it for such a low price before.

    3. Most of the time, I use Amazon (we have Prime and there’s a shipment center near us, which means next-day delivery most of the time). B&H sometimes, and Adorama on rare occasions. I’ve used a couple others, like Beach Camera, here and there, but you have to be careful with camera gear, as there are so many shady stores.

      For something like a camera bag, you’d probably be safe checking eBay. Not for a used one–they should have new ones.

  3. Hi, Tom,
    I have a Canon Rebel T3, with the 18-55 and 75-300 mm kit lenses, as well as a 50mm f/1.4. We will be going with a large group to Disney this fall (first trip!) I’m wanting a good, multi-purpose lens…have been looking at Tamron 17-50 or the Sigma 30mm that you recommended. What would your opinion be? My 50mm is my favorite, but I know I won’t be able to use that for everything.
    Thank you!

    Reply

  4. Do you have any suggestions for external flashes for a Canon camera? I have the T3i. I loved this post and I love your photo a day app.
    Thanks!

    Reply

  5. What is your opinion on whether lens hoods are a “necessary” accessory? Should it be something we all should buy? Only for certain lenses? “Brand” hoods or “cheap-o”?

    Reply

  6. Since the Velbon tripod you recommended is no longer available, is there another lightweight, study, & not $$$ tripod you’d recommend? I’m using a Nikon D5200 with the 16-85 lens, also have the 55-200 kit lens.
    Thanks!

    Reply

    1. After reading WAY too many reviews…I ended up getting the new Benro MeFoto RoadTrip Travel Tripod… weighs 3.6 and supports up to 17.6lbs…folds up to 15.4″. I also got the Custom SLR M-Plate Pro to use with the BlackRapid Metro strap. I’m headed out to Arizona to do some hiking & nature pics…will report back when return.

      http://www.amazon.com/MeFoto-A1350Q1A-Roadtrip-Travel-Tripod/dp/B009A17FN0/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=32A2ZVKRJP7G2&coliid=I2FQS4GOTT0M9A

      Thanks for all your help…appreciate all the info on the website & podcast!

    2. Really looking forward to what you have to say about this tripod. I’ve added it to my list of ones to potentially purchase in the near future.

  7. Hey Tom! I’ve read through your guides and subsequent other and had a few questions as I’ll be spending a good deal of the next several months at WDW: Would you recommend a point-and-shoot (S95 or G12) or a new lens?

    I already have a Nikon D3100, and just looking for an addition to shoot dark rides, fireworks, and Architecture while visiting. I see the point-and-shoot as convenient. Just looking for the best option. Thank you Sir!

    Reply

  8. hi tom, i will be heading to WDW soon and wanna know if the new tokina 11-16 dx ii works fine with 5D iiii??! or sigma 12-24 a better choice on FF system? thx a lot!!

    Reply

  9. This great. Noticed that most of the wide angle or super wide angle lens are for APSC sensors. Can we get the similar ones for full frame 35mm.

    Reply

    1. The Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 is the king of FX wide angle lenses. No other lens comes close to it.

  11. Tom, great content and photos. I am a novice with a DSLR with a D5100 for approximately a year. Work and an infant have hindered my development. Santa delivered CS6 extended, with hopes that I will better capture our family memories and create family portraits. I have a handful of RAW files from a recent trip to WDW and Christmas that I am tinkering with. Do you suggest any books or online classes to help learn Photoshop? I have been using the adobe site and searching you tube for help so far. I did notice that you have an older Kelby book on your blog. Any help is greatly appreciated. Keep up the good work!

    Reply

  12. Tom, this is really a great article. I just bought a Canon EOS Rebel T3 yesterday that came with an 18-55mm IS Lens. I’ve been looking to get into the DSLR game for a while, and got a great deal on Woot.com for this one, so I jumped on it. And I have to say, your pictures are one of the main reasons I wanted to hop into the wonderful world of photography.

    Thanks for all the resources you’ve posted here. I think I’m going to pick up a book or two you’ve recommended.

    Thanks again!

    Reply

    1. I mentioned that the D800 is ‘disappointing for my shooting style,’ which is the case because the files are so large, and I shoot in high volume. Memory (CF, HD, or RAM) is not yet cheap enough for this to be a realistically viable camera for me. Otherwise, it looks absolutely amazing.

      I am not a full-time photographer.

  14. I just bought a D3100 for my first DSLR and somehow missed the fact that there is no wireless remote for it. Apparently Nikon decided to downgrade to a wired one from the d3000. Any suggestions?

    Reply

  15. I was wondering if you can give me some advice on what would be the best camera lens to bring to Magic Kingdom. I have a Canon Rebel EOS T3i with 18-55mm lens and 55-250mm lens. I love your pictures, especially the ones with the castle before the CP breakfast. What lens did you use? Should I invest in another lens. This is my son’s first vist to MK and I want to capture the moments the best way I can. Thank you.

    Reply

    1. Which do you use more, the 18-55 or the 55-250? If the 18-55 (which I assume is the case), you can’t go wrong upgrading to the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 lens reviewed here. It’s a gem of a lens! Make sure to read the full review I wrote on it (see the link here).

    2. Thank you for your advice. Your pictures are absolutely amazing!!! Did you use a tripod and remote for the castle and statue picture prior to your CP breakfast? Again, thank you and please do not stop your site. You truly have helped me plan my son’s trip to make it the best ever!

  16. Tom,

    When buying a new DSLR camera do you think it’s generally worth getting the most recent model of a camera eg. a D5100 over a D5000?

    Reply

    1. If money allows. I’d be more concerned with getting nicer lenses if at all possible, though.

  17. Hey Tom –
    With your extensive camera strap collection, I’m guessing you change them out quite often. Is there a “clip” that can be purchased that makes changing straps a faster process? I have the black/white/gray film strip Mickey strap and, when it is threaded through my camera, it’s a bit short and time consuming to change. I’ve looked around and cannot seem to find anything – thought you might have a suggestion.

    Thanks!

    Reply

    1. One of the straps I purchased had very thick metal clicks attached to it, and I use those. Prior to that, I tried to find clips (to avoid the exact problem you described) to no avail. Try looking for a random old camera strap on eBay with the metal clips I’m describing.

    2. Great idea….I’ll check it out and see if I can find anything. You wouldn’t think it would be such a novel idea…apparently so!

      Thanks Tom!

    3. I have the newer Disney strap and I used the clips from my lanyard pouch worked great- the pouch only cost $5= so $10- and they are small enough to clip on the camera and the strap will feed though the bottom . Look up lanyard pouches on the Disney web site and you can see how useable it might be for you.

  19. Hey there! This is my first visit to your blog! We are a team of volunteers and starting a new initiative in a community in the same niche. Your blog provided us valuable information to work on. You have done a marvellous job!

    Reply

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