Hello, Molly! I am so thrilled you made planDisney a part of your planning for this special time with your family. First, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your family's service to our nation. We are so fortunate to live in this great country and enjoy all its freedoms, thanks to military families like yours.
It warms my heart to hear that you are heading to the
Most Magical Place on Earth for quality time before your husband's deployment. And your husband's Commanding Officer sounds like a fairy godparent, knowing the importance of family and capturing these moments in time.
The
property rules prohibit "Photography, videotaping or recording of any kind, or otherwise engaging in any activity, for unapproved commercial purposes." I have heard that any photography where money is exchanged to take or purchase photos is considered commercial and is therefore prohibited.
A Cast Member has also told me that if the photos are for personal use only, it may be OK. "May be..." is the key part of the phrase—no guarantees. The policy also states "unapproved commercial photography." I take this as permission to ask for approval. It is not guaranteed, but I recommend asking at the location to see if this is possible. Decisions like this can be up to the Cast Members closest to the situation. They can take into consideration the relevant policies, your situation and the environment, including the safety and enjoyment of the resort by other Guests.
While I cannot guarantee you will be allowed to take pictures with a commercial photographer anywhere, I have a few recommendations on where I would try. First:
Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. The area around Lago Dorado is practically perfect, especially in the evening when the lights around the lake start to twinkle. My other suggestion is
Disney's Riviera Resort. There are numerous picturesque spots, including the Tangled and Peter Pan mosaics. Parking at a resort can be an issue without a resort or restaurant reservation. You would have to ask at the gate if parking is available. You may luck out and be allowed to park there if crowds are light. If not, Disney Resort Transportation is an option.
If you have your heart set on pictures inside the theme parks, a
Capture Your Moment photo session may be your best option. Disney PhotoPass photographers are so good and know the best spots with iconic backdrops.
I know this is not the news you hoped to hear. I wish it were easy to give you a list of locations and assurances that this is possible. Since commercial photography is prohibited, the best I can do is offer ideas on how you might make this happen.
Molly, I'm guessing you're aware of all the complex emotions that accompany your husband's deployment. While not the same by any means, I'd like to offer a mantra that I have been holding on to as my son starts his senior year of high school: "Don't miss him before he's gone." Allow yourself to be present in the moment, taking in all the laughs, smiles, stories and memories in the making. Don't let your head skip ahead and rob your heart of the joy that is in your midst. Your trip will be magical! Soak it all in! Enjoy it all!
If you have any other questions, please come see us again at
planDisney. We may not always have good news, but we will share what we can to help make your dreams come true.
Thinking of the Happiest Things!
Jana