Hey Tracy!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Mom Panel! Thank you very much for your question. I am so glad we have been able to help you. We really love hearing that!
I am a huge fan of the specially ticketed events such as
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. There are definitely going to be lots of PhotoPass photographer at these parties. You are correct there are more photo opportunities during the specially ticketed events. I have been several times and always seem to get pictures with characters who aren't usually in the parks during normal hours.
If you will be attending one of these events during your stay at Walt Disney World I would definitely recommend purchasing the
Memory Maker photo package. If you buy it more than three days in advance you will receive at $50 discount making it a really great deal. I used it last year got some great photos at the Christmas party with both characters and at many of the PhotoPass locations.
I hope this helps with your planning. If you have any other questions please come back and see me.
Wishing you a magical vacation and a pixie-dusted day!
Sue N., IN