Hey there, Tiffany! Thanks for bringing your question to us here at planDisney! Congratulations on your engagement—how wonderful that you and your fiancé are planning a trip to the Disneyland Resort! It truly is a place where dreams come true, and celebrating such a fairy tale moment there sounds absolutely perfect!
You've asked about photography options, and I'm happy to share some information on both Disney PhotoPass and bringing in a professional photographer.
Let's start with
Disney PhotoPass Service, which is an awesome option available throughout the resort! You'll find Disney PhotoPass photographers stationed all around Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, ready to capture fantastic photos of you both against backdrops worthy of a Disney classic! This is such a convenient way to get great shots together in front of iconic locations like
Sleeping Beauty Castle or the
Pixar Pal-A-Round, and sometimes even with Disney characters. This way, you can focus on soaking up all the joy and making memories while the pros handle the camera—no need to wish upon a star for a good photo! Locating PhotoPass photographers is super easy! Just open the
Disneyland mobile app, tap the map pin icon at the bottom, then tap the "Characters" button above the map.
For an extra touch of fun, be sure to ask your PhotoPass photographers about Magic Shots! It's like Tinker Bell herself added a little extra sparkle to your pictures! These can add delightful surprises, like special digital effects, props, or even beloved Disney Characters appearing alongside you as if by magic.
And speaking of extra magic, your visit is timed perfectly! You'll be there during both the incredible
Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration and the spooktacular
Halloween Time season! Anniversary years bring dazzling decorations and special celebratory touches all around the parks—perfect for unique photos. Plus, Halloween Time transforms the parks with festive décor, characters in fun costumes, and eerie delights like
Haunted Mansion Holiday. Keep an eye out, as there might even be special PhotoPass opportunities or Magic Shots themed to both the 70th Celebration and the Halloween festivities!
Regarding hiring your own professional photographer, Tiffany, the
Disneyland Resort guidelines indicate that photographers using professional camera equipment for commercial purposes must obtain approval in advance. Your best bet would be to
call the Disneyland Resort directly to inquire about the specific requirements and approval process.
Finally, while extendable selfie sticks are not permitted in the parks, you are allowed to bring a small, foldable tripod or monopod, provided it can fit inside a standard backpack. This might be helpful if you plan on using your own camera or phone for some shots.
I hope this helps you plan, Tiffany! Wishing you and your fiancé the most enchanting, happily-ever-after kind of visit, filled with unforgettable moments. If any more questions pop up, please feel free to ask!
Cody