The Man Behind The Magic

Where else on Earth can a garbage can be so much fun!?!?!?!?! Nowhere else.... that's where. ;)

And yes, please still walk by and throw their trash in there. Even though it's moving around and saying 'Thanks'.

'Push'
Tomorrowland
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Safety First... Lifeguard On Duty

As much emphasis as Disney places on giving its guests a great experience, they also never take shortcuts when it comes to guests' safety.

Everywhere you go on Disney property, the wardrobe/'costumes' of its Cast Members varies; depending on the theme. One thing that is completely traditional, is the dress of its lifeguards. The red and white (not seen here ;) ) is like the International color scheme of safety. You have no question as to who is "On Duty".

Blizzard Beach Water Park
Walt Disney World Resort, FL

Last Visit With Mr. Sanders

Memories.

Memories of your first visit.

Memories of seeing the castle for the first time.

Memories of meeting your favorite character.

Memories of the thrill and the magic.

Memories of what Disney used to be.

Memories of your last visit with Mr. Sanders.


Pooh's Playful Spot
Fantasyland
Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

P.S. And I know that Pooh isn't Mr. Sanders. ;)

Hiding In Plain Sight

Everyday, somewhere in "The World"; guests get so drawn into the atmosphere, that many Cast Members probably get overlooked.

In some cases, I guess it's not actually that bad; considering that Disney goes all out to immerse its guests in that experience.

Mexico Pavilion
Epcot World Showcase
Walt Disney World, FL

Desperate Times.... Desperate Measures

... A little more stretch, and she could've gotten the whole wall in there. Oh well, maybe next time. ;)

We've all been in this scenario; we want a picture of us "being there", but no one's around to take the pic. I know it doesn't seem right for me to say that... seeing as how I'm taking a picture of her taking her own picture; but I'm really not that mean (there were quite a few people near her, and I even started to walk over before she eventually moved). Although most of these shots don't turn out the best (is that an iPhone??? Maybe she has a specially designed UUUUWA on there), but when they're well executed, the perspective can add a beautiful element to the shot.

But when you're at Disney, and you feel like you have to rely on taking your own picture... just ask somebody!!!! Most people are very willing to help. And if you see someone trying to take these self-portraits, don't stop and take a picture of them struggling. Stop whatever you're doing, and help them out. ;)

Morocco Pavilion
Epcot World Showcase
Walt Disney World, FL

Expressing Congrats

One of special aspects about being a part of the Disney community, is the happiness people express for others' accomplishments. Whether it's booking a trip, buying a "new toy", getting married.... just WHATEVER; someone always seems to be there to at least express a simple 'Congrats'.

Most recently, a book entitled The Unofficial Guide: The Color Companion to Walt Disney World was released; and I'm proud to say that a few of my Flickr contacts have been spotlighted in the book. And now their work is out there for the world to see. It's definitely a travel guide; but their amazing Disney pictures help guide guests all over "The World".

So to Matt, Tom, Joe, Tim, Jeff, Cory, Vanessa, Cody, Gary, Josh, and everyone else.... Congrats!!!!

"To Me, MC Means Move the Crowd"

What better way to interact at Disney than to be THE center of attention.... and THE one to help bring the "Disney" experience to others.

"The Lions" ..... as you can tell by someone in the crowd. ;)
Festival of the Lion King
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Walt Disney World, FL

Disney Tattoo Guy... George Reiger

When I initially set out to start this photo blog, I wanted all my shots to be "fresh". I didn't want to go to the archives for anything. I have some older "Human Element" type of shots; but I know they're scenes I can capture again in some form..... except this one.

Talk about LOVE of Disney!!!!! His body is literally covered with Disney tattoos (he even had a Mickey shaved into the back of his head, this day). And the Cast Members in the backgroud!?!?!?! Totally a nice surprise when I looked at this picture later on. It's great to see Disney employees enjoying "the view". ;)

P.S. Although he looks intimidating here, I heard he's actually a very nice guy.

Epcot 25th Anniversary Celebration
Walt Disney World, FL

Big In Japan

Everyday, guests from all over the world visit Disney, and display their own sense of style. Whether it's celebratory, or just normal attire, the approach to dressing is completely varied.

When it comes to really doing-it-up, the Japanese have such an impeccable sense of style. It's not everyday that you see a group successfully pull this off.

Sunset Boulevard
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World, FL

Charm The Pants Off The Crowd

One of the great things that Disney does, is to make the ordinary experience extraordinary!!!

In Japan's Pick-A-Pearl area, there is already a bit of excitement in what kind of jewel you'll discover (of course you'll get a pearl... but there's also size and color to consider). But to really make you feel like you've come across the "Crème de la Crème", the Cast Member plays a little ditty to celebrate your accomplishment.

Yuka from Aichi, Japan
Pick-A-Peal
Japan Pavilion
Epcot World Showcase
Walt Disney World, FL