Wait For It... Wait For It...

….. the Official Slogan of Photographers Worldwide.

Wait for the coaster to get here…
Wait for the coaster with your family on it to get here…
“Wait… why aren’t you guys on the ride? I didn’t see you come down.”
Wait for the people to move out the frame…
Wait for the people to come into the frame…
Wait for the camera to focus…
Wait to see how long it takes you before you realize everything’s black because you left the lens cap on… (Guilty!)

All we seem to do is wait.
What are some of the things you wait for???????????

Expedition Everest
Animal Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Reaching Out

In being a part of the Disney community, you realize the part that Disney can play in people's lives. And when interacting with others, you feel the comfort and welcoming that you won't get anywhere else.

Every once in a while, you'll see someone asking for a Disney related favor. The skeptical part of you makes you hesitate to get involved; but the "Disney" part of you takes over, and you gladly see what you can do. Last year, a chance encounter allowed me to reach out to a grieving mother..... the skeptical part never kicked it.

In April of 2009, Jennifer Dooley lost her son Michael. It would have been his 10th birthday that July; and a June trip to Star Wars Weekends was in order. Unfortunately, he was unable to make that trip. Fortunately for Jenn, a great friend of hers was eagerly waiting to help. Her friend made a post on the Star Wars message boards; asking for some assistance in a very special endeavor. The night before Star Wars Weekends began; I was visiting these boards one last time, to make sure no unexpected events were occurring. That’s when I came upon the posting. I immediately started to think how I could help…. and contribute to the Michael’s Name Project. So I made the sign that’s pictured, and had a few of the Star Wars Characters (the Disney ones) sign it. I e-mailed the pictures to Jenn’s friend, who then mailed them to Jenn herself. I thought I’d just get a nice simple e-mail saying thanks. But I received an e-mail from Jenn, and another from a relative of hers, expressing their deepest heartfelt gratitude. All in all, it was a true pleasure being able to bring any amount of happiness to this family. I am so glad I decided to reach out.

May the Disney Force Be With Us All.

Michael’s Name Project Flickr Group
Jennifer’s “I Love You Best” Blog for Michael

Bon Appetit!!!

I'll let Anthony Bourdain take the reins for this one.... (visualize soft French music)

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Why the French don't suck!

Sure, the French are renowned for their culinary technique and invention. But even more crucial, more precious, is the sensual point of view behind it. That drives not only their cuisine, but their entire existence. It may just save the world.

The most important thing to do the instant you arrive is Paris, is stop. Find someplace inviting, and slip comfortably into the Parisian pace of life.

... This gets right to the kernel of what distinguishes the French. What are the French famous for? Perfume that smells good. Sense of smell. Food that tastes good. Sense of taste. Art, architecture. Visual sense. Ok, there's really no explanation for their crap pop music. But, you know, 3 out of 4 is not bad. These are all matters of the senses. It's their attitude towards pleasure, and sensuality. And food, in general, being the best example.

... Eating is, and should be, a joyous occasion. As should the use of all your senses. So America, perhaps you should try it. Maybe duck out of the office when the boss isn't looking. Or call in sick for that boring meeting. Pull up a chair in a local joint. Grab a tasty beverage, and eat a ham sandwich. REALLY eat a ham sandwich. You just may find you not only love the French again; but you may also love life.... and ultimately... the world.

- No Reservations - Season 1, Episode 1 ..... Netflix ROCKS btw. ;)
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♫ Oh, How I Want To Be In That Number ♪

These impromptu musical performances are a treat that shouldn't be missed. Whether it's this Fantasyland Band, the Dapper Dans of Main Street, The Notorious Banjo Brothers and Bob, or Jim; I highly advise taking a few minutes out of your day to enjoy these wonderful performers. They will be a small highlight to your unforgettable trip.

This kid and his brother were just great!!! It was nice to see them having such a great time. You could tell, for them, that this truly was the 'Happiest Place On Earth'.

Fantasyland Band
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Inspirational Shots

It' amazing to see other people's perspective on things you see all the time. Although these shots are completely unique, because of the people in them; they are still very much "everyday Disney". Here are just a few Disney pics that have provided inspiration.

Disney's Human Element Gallery

The Chosen Few

Although there are many rides and attractions at Disney, it seems that a lot of guests include these street performance/participation scenes into their itinerary. Besides this Pirates of the Caribbean theme, the Jedi Training Academy has become quite the hit. I kinda wish they'd do one for adults. It'd be pretty cool to get in a lightsaber fight with Darth Maul.

Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

The Best Seat In The House

Sometimes, this can be a nuisance to people in the immediate vicinity. But to the child, it is literally the Best Seat In The House. It's like you're the only one in the theater of a thousand people.

Dream Along With Mickey Show
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Disney Is Not Just Mickey Mouse and Fairy Tales

There is a lot that makes Disney what it is. But to me, Disney's Human Element is what makes it's "world" unique. I'm gonna do my best to showcase the real people of Disney; i.e..... regular Cast Members, guests, and street performers. But NO pictures of Disney characters (this will be mainly a photo blog, btw); only with the exception of them not being the main focus.

I hope you enjoy!!!!! ;)