Ultimate Disney Parks Photography Guide

ByTom Bricker July 9, 2024July 17, 2024

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

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.

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. 🙂

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!

255 Comments

LIndsey says:

April 5, 2016 at 5:12 pm

Do you think the 2 lens bundle is good enough for someone starting out and trying to get good pictures at Disney? I want to make sure all my bases are covered and those two just don’t seem sufficient. But I don’t want to drop $1000 on a lens right out of the gate.

Reply
1. gio says:
  
  April 29, 2016 at 12:09 pm
  
  Hi Lindsey, from personal experience, its “better” (better for me anyways) to just take 1 lens out to the parks. Something like a 24-70, 24-105, 17-85, etc. First it’s less weight and less gear to lug around. Second, you’ll be forced to think more and won’t be tempted to stop in every corner because you see a telephoto opportunity across the lake at Epcot for example. When you take more gear, you’ll be more inclined to switch lenses constantly instead of focusing on the image opportunity in front of you. If you really want a challenge and a lot of great shots, go old school. Take a 35 or a 55 on a full frame. If you have a cropped sensor, a 24 or 35. Just 1 lens and not a zoom. It’s very liberating. A bit of critique. Most of what is written here is great information except buying a “2) Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8, and 3) Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8” purchasing these 2 together is bad advice in my opinion. You can get 1 or the other but those 2 are way to close in range. There are a lot of variables at play. budget, experience, seriousness, quality and expectation are play key roles in helping you pick out the right gear for you.
  In sum, an aps-c or mirrorless body, 1 all-in-one lens or if you want 2 lenses, a wide 10-22 and a telephoto 70-300, tripod, nd and cpl.
  Even though it was advised against, don’t forget to check craigslist and ebay for used equipment. You can save substantial amounts and get more for your money. I’ve bought and sold a lot of equipment on craigslist. Tom had done a great job outlining the basics of what you would need to get you going. A bit biased towards Nikon and Sony lol but that’s the norm for most photographers! (Im a Canon and GoPro shooter) Have fun!
Rob says:

March 28, 2016 at 6:35 am

Hey, great blog thank you. I’ll be sure to use your tips next time I go to WDW. Just the one question as I couldn’t see it above, when setting up at a park say for fireworks, how soon do you get there to get the best position for the shot you want? e.g long exposure with tripod.

Many thanks,
Rob.

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Claire says:

February 28, 2016 at 11:12 am

How is Disney handling tripods in the park since the selfie-stick ban? (Thank heaven for the selfie-stik ban). I was just wondering if you’ve notice this have any effect on your ability to bring a tripod in. Thanks so much and thanks for this AMAZING blog.

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Liz says:

January 31, 2016 at 11:34 am

Maybe this is a silly question, but I find my DSLR to be bulky and annoying to carry. Do you carry it with you in the park all day? If so, what do you do with it while on rides?

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Stephanie says:

January 28, 2016 at 6:24 am

HI Tom,

Love your site! Long time reader (stalker 🙂 )

Just wondering if you’ve ever used a GoPro at any of the parks – or in your travels?
Would you recommend using one (e.g. marathons? runs?) – would love to see a review from your perspective.

Thanks!

Reply
Sandra says:

December 26, 2015 at 8:40 am

thank you for share with us this details

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Nate Blalock says:

December 22, 2015 at 11:06 am

Hello Disney Tourist Blog,

I’m hopefully going to Disneyland for my first time ever in May or June of 2016 and am stoked! I have seen amazing low light footage of Space Mountain on YouTube and want to film the ride in low light just like the YouTube videos. Can you please help me? If expenses are too great, I’ll just get an app for my iPhone 6. Thank you for your time!

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Angie says:

December 18, 2015 at 4:03 pm

Tom,
I am interested in your opinion of mirrorless cameras currently on the market. Do you or Sarah use a mirrorless camera? Have you reviewed some of them? Couldn’t find anything specific on the site about them. If you have already written something, please fell free to direct me to it.
Thanks,
Angie

Reply
camera lenses says:

October 30, 2015 at 1:40 am

Thanks for sharing this nice article. It have some great use full information.

Reply
camera lenses says:

October 30, 2015 at 1:38 am

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Reply
Katie says:

October 28, 2015 at 3:56 pm

I saw Melody ask last year but didn’t see a response, any recommendations for a good strap? Husband wants to upgrade before our next trip.

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Nastassia says:

October 2, 2015 at 4:05 pm

Came across this article and though you might get a kick out of it! http://petapixel.com/2015/09/30/kodaks-tips-for-photographing-disneyland-in-1956/

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Sarah says:

September 27, 2015 at 1:23 pm

Hello,

I’ve been perusing your blogs about photography and lenses. I’m trying to decide between the Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 and the Rokinon 8mm fisheye. I have a Nikon D3300 with the kit lens (NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II Zoom) and a Nikon 50mm f/1.8G Auto Focus-S NIKKOR FX Lens. The Tokina is tempting but I love the fisheye look. If you had to choose just one, which would it be? I’m sorry if you’ve answered this before.

Thanks 🙂

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Spencer B. says:

August 17, 2015 at 12:32 am

I am a Junior in High School and I absolutely love photography! I’ve taken classes and everything, but I’m wondering about a good camera. I recently went to Tokyo Disney Sea and when I went on Journey to the Center of the Earth, I couldn’t take pictures in the line because my phone camera wouldn’t show anything in the darker setting. So I’m wondering if you know of a good camera that would be able to take pictures in darker settings? I don’t really have a money limit. If you could help, I would be really grateful! Thanks!

Reply
1. Spencer B. says:
  
  August 17, 2015 at 12:54 am
  
  And after I get the camera, should I also get a lens?
John says:

July 27, 2015 at 11:47 am

Hi Tom,
AWESOME blog with great info!

I have a question and I was hoping you could lend me your expert advice.

Here’s the story. My kids always wanted a decent video of Celebrate the Magic, along with Wishes. I plan on using my Nikon D7100 on the trip and will shoot stills & video with it. Since we’re not arriving until later in the day on our 1st day, we’re going to opt to use a FP+ for MSEP. Figuring, the FP+ viewing location for MSEP is on the hub across from the castle, we could view the parade from there then just stay put to view Celebrate the Magic & Wishes. It’s far from ideal for Wishes, but thought we’d get a good view of Celebrate the Magic from there.

OK, so my question; to video the three show (MSLP, CTM & Wishes), given my location on the hub, with my proximity to the Parade, castle and fireworks, would you suggest using the Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8 or the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 Lens?

Thank you in advance for any assistance you can offer!
John

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gt says:

July 21, 2015 at 5:26 pm

Hi Tom. Your site is awesome! I’m taking my family to WDW in September for the first (and probably the last time due to cost) and wanted to know if I am allowed to hand carry my tripod into the parks. The WDW website states a tripod must fit into a backpack, but I don’t want to take a big backpack. I have a Manfrotto 190go! which is about 17.5″ folded. In your experience, how strict is WDW on this policy? Your response is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Reply
1. Tom Bricker says:
  
  July 21, 2015 at 10:29 pm
  
  You should be fine with that tripod.
Matt says:

May 21, 2015 at 7:33 pm

Tom
I am somewhat new to photography but I feel that I have outgrown my d3100. I want a camera that I can shoot using a remote for fireworks and be able to take pictures of the whole family. A better ISO range is a priority as well. The 7100 is a bit more than I want to spend right now. Is it a waste to buy the 5200 or 5300? Or should I wait until I am ready to spend for the 7100? Leaving for trip in 3 weeks. Really appreciate your feedback.
Thanks
Matt

Reply
1. Tom Bricker says:
  
  May 24, 2015 at 1:59 pm
  
  Personally, I don’t think the cost is worth it for that upgrade. I’d wait until you can get the D7100 (or its replacement).
2. Matt says:
  
  May 26, 2015 at 8:36 pm
  
  Thanks Tom. Is the SB 300 worth buying? I only have the built in flash.
Valerie Murray says:

May 20, 2015 at 6:01 pm

Your photos are absolutely gorgeous!!!!

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Sean Mullin says:

April 25, 2015 at 9:36 pm

Tom,

Great stuff!!!

2 Questions:

1. How do you get all the great shots of an EMTPY park? Have someone on the inside? Wait until security is ready to drag you out?

2. Which of these 2 lenses would you recommend as the first purchase? Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 Zoom Lens or the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM Lens? Camera is Nikon D3000 with only the standard 35-85 mm zoom. Primary desire is versatility.

Reply
1. Sean Mullin says:
  
  April 26, 2015 at 12:33 am
  
  My bad, standard 18-55mm
Bailey says:

April 24, 2015 at 10:14 am

I’m currently in college for photography and I’ll be going to Disney this summer with my best firend.
I’m bringing my Nikon D7100 and curently have an 18-140ml lens and a 50ml lens that I’ll br brining with me.

I have access to a 35ml lens -my dad has the same camera and has the 18-140 and a 35ml lens. and I already have a tripod (though I’m going to look your reviews for travel ones) My camera bag can fit four lenses plus the one already on the camera.

My school has a summer rental option for renting camera lenses/equiptment out and I was wondering which lenses (or other equiptment) should I cosider bringing?

Reply
1. Bailey says:
  
  April 24, 2015 at 11:07 am
  
  I meant to say mm lenses not ml. Messed up on that sorry.
2. Tom Bricker says:
  
  April 24, 2015 at 12:52 pm
  
  I’d definitely recommend an ultra wide angle lens. Something in the 12mm range on the wide end.