Hi Emily,
I love family photo sessions at Walt Disney World. My family has worked through
Disney Fine Art Photography twice for photo shoots and have been thrilled with the results both times.
I understand that Disney has a policy requiring professional photographers inside the theme parks to arrange for an escort so that they do not impede other guests. I have not seen anything to indicate that the policy applies to
Disney Springs. My caution to you would be to be sure your photo shoot doesn't interfere with others. I would also ask the photographer if he or she has done this before without issues.
Most restaurants and shops at Disney Springs do not open until 10 a.m. However, the
Starbucks at Disney Springs Marketplace opens at 8 a.m., and a few others open at 9 a.m. so I believe you should be able to access the parking and public areas by 8.
I hope that helps, Emily. Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Please let us know if we can answer any other questions for you as you make your final vacation plans. Enjoy!
Wilma