The Learning Curve

Photowalks. The meeting of great people. The sharing of ideas. The ultimate chance to see if you can resist buying new gear, after giving it a test run.

Here, Doug (DugJax) gives Don Sullivan's fisheye lens a go. After a couple of hands-on demonstrations, a fisheye lens moved near the top of his 'Must Have' List. So note: all compulsive buyers should stay away from any kind of photowalk. ;)

Spaceship Earth Post-Show
EPCOT
Walt Disney World, FL

The Unsung

This crew does an amazing job in trying to keep the ship spotless. Everyday, they start at the top deck, and working their way down; restarting the same pattern the next day. Although guests are enjoying paradise, you know that this is no paradise for them. And I'm sure that they get constantly overlooked. But here is my thank you to them. Thank You For All That You Do!!!!

Deck 4
Disney Magic Cruise Ship

Warning: 1st Visit May Cause Sleepiness

... And yet, it will bring a lifetime of memories
... It will be a dream fulfilled
... It will be the fabulous end-result of continuous planning
... It will be the joy of meeting all of your favorite characters
... It will be fun and adventure around every corner
... It will be the discovery of real-life magic
... It will be.... A thousand ways to catch a nap ;)

"Endless" Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL


It has been such a great year, photography-wise and life-wise. Personally, I feel like I've had some active progression when it comes to shooting and post-processing. It's been great getting to know (and eventually meet) some of the amazing people here on Flickr. And as far as my home life, well..... most of you know the main part of that story. ;)

Have A Wonderful New Year Everyone!!!!

Love In The Limelight... And Redlight... And Bluelight...

More than any other time of the year, Christmas brings with it a spirit that can't be beat. It's full of the spirit of love... the spirit of giving... the spirit of cherishing all that is dear to you. And what better place than Disney to celebrate this spirit explosion. [No pun intended; as a major cheerleading competition is also held at this park every year] ;)


Happy Holidays Everyone!!!



Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL

Disney's Human Element - "Oh Santa!"

Since 1983, early December has brought the filming of the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade. Shot in Walt Disney World, as well as Disneyland; this event showcases some of the top musical acts around today. Seen on ABC, viewers have been treated to performances by Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, The Jonas Brothers, Diana Krall, Stevie Wonder, and Menudo (just trying to show a little diversity there); as well as countless other musicians.

And as a bonus treat for attendees like myself; you get to stand around for hours listening to the same beautiful Christmas song over and over.... all while trying to not get crushed by the Jonas lovin' teens. ;)


Mariah Carey singing "Oh Santa!" at Disney's Christmas Parade Taping.

.... and yes, she was clearly showing!!!! :)


2010 Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade Taping
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Weary Travelers

With Everest looming in the distance, travelers rest-up for the long journey ahead of them; while adventurers from the previous expedition return to base camp in utter disappointment. The quest for the Yeti forever continues.

Expedition Everest
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Meanness

To always play to its nice side, Disney allows all guests to equally be involved in the meanness.

Kali River Rapids
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Biotechnology Lab

"Biotechnology Lab - Attached to the Creative Greenhouse, the Biotechnology Lab is a sterile research environment. Several USDA scientists are on-site at The Land, performing research on crop improvement. The Land also produces a product called "Mickey's Mini Gardens" in the Biotechnology Lab, which are available for purchase in several locations in Epcot."

- Wikipedia

You can also see more information in this July 1996 Article on the USDA website.

Biotechnology Lab
Living With The Land
The Land Pavilion
Epcot
Walt Disney World, FL

Taking A Ride On The Roy O.

"I just want it to look like nothing else in the world. And it should be surrounded by a train."
- Walt Disney

Taking a ride on the Walt Disney Railroad is one of the most peaceful experiences at the park. And not only is it a mode of transportation to give from one area to another; but you'll also get the chance to see views of the Magic Kingdom that would otherwise be totally hidden.

The Roy O. Disney
Walt Disney World Railroad
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

The Fear Factor

'The unknown' can be a great nemesis when it comes to you trying to conquer your fears. Many people have been fearful of the Tower of Terror just by its name alone. And any descriptions of the ride, or actually seeing it in person, don't help to calm someone's apprehension. From the moment you set foot on this haunted property, you are already enveloped in the experience. Nothing you encounter upon your journey will help to ease this fear..... not the outside 'gardens'.... not the hotel personnel..... not the 'glorious' lobby..... not the teenage girls screaming for no reason.... and definitely not the pre-show. If you're fearful going in, you'll be fearful until the end.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL