Hi Meredith,
What a great plan!
Disney Early Morning Magic - Fantasyland is a fantastic way to start your Magic Kingdom day. You'll be able to ride three of the most popular Fantasyland attractions before the crowds arrive. Additionally, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast at Pinocchio Village Haus. I like the way you think...family photos in front of Cinderella Castle are always a "must do" for us on every trip. It's an added bonus to get them with very few people in the background. Your question was a good one, and it required a bit of research. I spoke an extremely helpful Cast Member in Guest Services, who contacted
Disney's PhotoPass Service directly to get the most accurate, up-to-date information for you. The official answer (as of now), is that the PhotoPass photographers are normally not on Main Street, USA until regular park opening, which is 9:00 AM. That being said, I was told that this specific question is one which they have heard multiple times and they are "currently looking at alternatives". It may be that by the time you arrive, you find them them there in the early morning. Be sure to bring your own camera and / or cell phone though. There will be plenty of other families who are arriving at the same time as you who will also want to capture a similar photo. Simply offer to trade off and take photos for each other. I have found that some of my favorite Disney photos were taken on my iPhone by a fellow tourist.
Thanks for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel! Please let us know if we can assist you further.
Wishing you magical memories,
Kaylene