Disneyland is often considered to be the most magical place on earth and it’s easy to see why. There are many rides and attractions to choose from, you can meet your favorite characters, there is a parade every day and even fireworks at night! It’s no wonder why people travel thousands of miles just to visit this park!
If you’re going to Disneyland, or any other theme park for that matter, you want to capture your experience in photographs. There are so many amazing things to photograph at Disneyland — from the rides and attractions to the food and characters.
We’ve put together a list of best tips and ideas for taking amazing photos at Disneyland.
Table of Contents
Get there early
The best time to visit the park is in the morning before it opens so that you can get some great shots without too many people in them. When it opens, you’ll still have plenty of time for pictures before the crowds really start piling up. If you’re staying in one of the Disney hotels, then this is easy as they open early with breakfast served from 7:00am onwards.
Get close to the action
If you want great shots of rides or characters, then get as close as possible! We recommend a wide-angle lens (like a 24mm) if possible because it’ll allow you to get closer without getting too distorted. The closer you are, the more interesting your picture will be because there’ll be more detail visible and less distortion caused by the wide angle lens (it’s also more flattering for faces!).
Bring your tripod.
I highly recommend this because it makes it much easier to take clear pictures without having to hold the camera. If you don’t have a tripod, try setting your camera on a rock or something else stable while you’re taking pictures.
Use your zoom lens if possible (or bring binoculars).
This way you don’t have to get too close and risk bumping into someone or getting kicked out of the park for being too close to people’s personal space. Also, try zooming out as far as possible and taking close-up shots with your wide angle lens.
Don’t just stand there
If you want to take a photo of yourself or your family in front of the Disney sign, try doing something different than everyone else. Try posing with someone else or doing something like jumping or running toward the camera.
Get creative
If you’re looking for a fun idea for an Instagram post, try taking a photo with one of the many hidden Mickeys around Disneyland. Snap a selfie with one of these hidden Mickeys for an extra boost of Disney magic!
Go behind-the-scene
If you’re looking for even more fun pictures from your trip, consider going behind-the-scenes at either California Adventure Park or Disneyland Park itself! Visit backstage areas like The Tree House in California Adventure Park or backstage areas in Disneyland Park like Fantasyland’s Toontown Fair and New Orleans Square’s Pirates Lair.
Take a Trip to Disneyland in the Fall
The autumn season is one of the best times to visit Disneyland because it’s not as crowded, and there are fewer lines for rides. You can also score some great deals on tickets during this time, too.
Ride Your Favorite Roller Coasters at Night
The Disneyland Railroad is a great place to take photos because you can get some amazing shots from above and below the tracks. The train will take you around the park and give you access to many photo opportunities that you wouldn’t be able to get otherwise. This is a great way to get pictures of all of your favorite rides without waiting in line — just make sure you ride at night when there aren’t as many people in line!
Take Pictures of Fireworks Shows at Disneyland
Fireworks shows are usually held several times each day at Disneyland, so it’s easy to catch them from different angles and get different shots each time. Make sure you bring your camera with you everywhere so that you don’t miss any opportunities for capturing great shots!
Disneyland Photography Ideas
