Walt Disney world trip recommendations

[Kevin in ChiRaq]

Anybody have any recommendations for a Walt Disney World trip? I’m an enthusiast with a Nikon D750 and an Sony a6500. I know most of the indoor dinners can be dark so I’ll need to take a flash and something wide to get family pics at dinner tables with the characters and a flash for fill for the sun. Just not thrilled at the thought of carrying a brick around my neck. Almost tempted to rent a A7r3 with the new 24/105 lens and leave the rest at home. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

 

[jcharding]

Enjoy the experience, particularly if its your first trip or first in a while, and leave your camera at home. Most of Disney can be handled by a phone or a small P&S.

Over the past three years I've been to Disney three times (plus two other days at Universal). Each time I carry less and less. Not because the opportunities are any less interesting but because hauling a serious camera is just too much of a pain while simultaneously tending to family and just having fun.

So character dinners... I think I've done most of them, the most recent being in Cinderella's castle (very cool BTW). Typically you will have around 6 princesses wandering around. They will stop at every table and pose. Each interaction lasts about 10-15 seconds. Is it nice to have higher quality pictures with your own camera? Yes. Is it worth hauling the gear all day for those 60 seconds? IMHO no. At Cinderella's castle I shot with both an iPhone 7 and an elderly Fuji X100. This was sufficient, and now that I think about it I'm not even sure I've even looked at the X100 pictures. The iPhone was enough to capture the memories.

 

[PhotoFactor]

Bring a lot of money. Prices are astronomical and going up.

 

[SoCalWill]

You'll find that when in a Disney park, during the day everything happens in tight and sometimes distant frames, and at night it's best to take in wide swaths of the scenery - excepting family shots, you'll want telephoto during the day and wide angle at night.

The last time I went to the park, despite owning a DSLR and lenses, I was happy to only carry my RX100, which required cropping of the day pictures, but it was worth it for the night pictures, and to only carry a camera the size of a deck of cards.

Don't forget the option of renting a locker so you can bring a tripod you don't have to carry. And mind the rides where you get wet.







--
Digital Camera and Adobe Photoshop user since 1999.
Adobe Lightroom is my adult coloring book.

 

[Craig Gillette]

What lenses do you have? I'd certainly lean towards the A6500.

 

[Kevin in ChiRaq]

I have the 24 1.8 and the 16-70 F4 for the A6500. I also have the Hvl 45 flash for the camera. Last time I was there I remember using a flash a lot due to all the harsh shadows, that’s where the Nikon seems to do a little better. The 24 might not be wide enough for shots at the character dinners with the crop factor. The lens I would take with the Nikon D750 would be the 24/120 F4.

 

[TacticDesigns]

Bring a lot of money. Prices are astronomical and going up.

But, when we were there, the food prices seemed reasonable.

We were thinking we'd want to try to bring food, or go out for lunch. But the prices in the park were pretty reasonable.

Once we saw the prices, we just ended up not bringing anything with us and eating in the park.

Less to carry. More time in the park.

Take care & Happy Shooting!

 

[Mark B.]

I have the 24 1.8 and the 16-70 F4 for the A6500. I also have the Hvl 45 flash for the camera. Last time I was there I remember using a flash a lot due to all the harsh shadows, that’s where the Nikon seems to do a little better. The 24 might not be wide enough for shots at the character dinners with the crop factor. The lens I would take with the Nikon D750 would be the 24/120 F4.

My wife & I have gone every year for many years now, I bring my DSLR every time and I'm not sorry. I think the 24-120 on the Nikon would be great for most situations.

Mark

 

[Mastering Light]

There is nothing more annoying than the people lugging around their big ILCs at Disney and Univeral. They stick out like a sore thumb and slow lines down on the rides when they realize they have to show their expensive equipment.

And guess who is the prime target for thieves?

Get an ILC that fits in a pocket like the gx9. Then put the tiny 25mm f1.7 pancake prime in another pocket with the little 35-100mm zoom. Then you can go on rides, walk around with both hands free, and you don't have a heavy bullseye hanging around your neck. Most of the time youll use the mini 12-32mm kit zoom (it is very sharp). Indoors switch to the f1.7 prime and use 5 axis IBIS. And when needed switch to that little telephoto zoom that fits in most pockets.

But most important, have fun! And don't be the Dufus more concerned about his camera instead of enjoying vacation with his family.

 

[Mark B.]

There is nothing more annoying than the people lugging around their big ILCs at Disney and Univeral.

Good, hope I annoy you if you see me. Kinda weird that what someone brings with them to take pictures would annoy you. Why can't folks just enjoy the experience for themselves?

They stick out like a sore thumb and slow lines down on the rides when they realize they have to show their expensive equipment.

What are you talking about? I've never had to 'show' my DSLR on any of the rides. If you're talking about security at the front gates, they make anyone with a bag stop and open them. Not just people with cameras.

And guess who is the prime target for thieves?

I guess people that leave their stuff laying around unguarded. I've been to WDW numerous times over the years, not once was I worried about someone trying to go into my bag or yank the camera from around my shoulder.

Get an ILC that fits in a pocket like the gx9. Then put the tiny 25mm f1.7 pancake prime in another pocket with the little 35-100mm zoom. Then you can go on rides, walk around with both hands free, and you don't have a heavy bullseye hanging around your neck. Most of the time youll use the mini 12-32mm kit zoom (it is very sharp). Indoors switch to the f1.7 prime and use 5 axis IBIS. And when needed switch to that little telephoto zoom that fits in most pockets.

But most important, have fun! And don't be the Dufus more concerned about his camera instead of enjoying vacation with his family.

Have fun and enjoy the park YOUR OWN WAY. Don't be the dufus trying to tell others how they should enjoy it.

 

[Mastering Light]

There is nothing more annoying than the people lugging around their big ILCs at Disney and Univeral.

Good, hope I annoy you if you see me. Kinda weird that what someone brings with them to take pictures would annoy you. Why can't folks just enjoy the experience for themselves?

The annoying part is dsl nerds stoping every few steps blocking people so they can look through their VFs. They don't realize how inconsiderate they are.

They stick out like a sore thumb and slow lines down on the rides when they realize they have to show their expensive equipment.

What are you talking about? I've never had to 'show' my DSLR on any of the rides.

Bags and cameras are not allowed on roller coasters and many ride at WDW parks unless they are in your pocket.

If you've been to Disney you'd know this. Some rides have pockets to store stuff, but they are not that safe.

If you're talking about security at the front gates, they make anyone with a bag stop and open them. Not just people with cameras.

And guess who is the prime target for thieves?

I guess people that leave their stuff laying around unguarded. I've been to WDW numerous times over the years

But it is clear you didn't ride on the better rides.

People do not leave their purses unattended, but they get pulled from their hands and stolen anyway.

, not once was I worried about someone trying to go into my bag or yank the camera from around my shoulder.

Then you are lucky.

Get an ILC that fits in a pocket like the gx9. Then put the tiny 25mm f1.7 pancake prime in another pocket with the little 35-100mm zoom. Then you can go on rides, walk around with both hands free, and you don't have a heavy bullseye hanging around your neck. Most of the time youll use the mini 12-32mm kit zoom (it is very sharp). Indoors switch to the f1.7 prime and use 5 axis IBIS. And when needed switch to that little telephoto zoom that fits in most pockets.

But most important, have fun! And don't be the Dufus more concerned about his camera instead of enjoying vacation with his family.

Have fun and enjoy the park YOUR OWN WAY. Don't be the dufus trying to tell others how they should enjoy it.

Just trying to point out that most DSLR users are very inconsiderate and waste their vacation obsessed with their giant camera and heavy bag. They don't go on the fun coasters and water rides and they don't realize how annoying they are.

 

[CarlosMP]

Its going to be hot with a ridiculous amount of people, get a RX100 style camera or a

Canon G7X M2 and enjoy the park with your family.

 

[Mark B.]

There is nothing more annoying than the people lugging around their big ILCs at Disney and Univeral.

Good, hope I annoy you if you see me. Kinda weird that what someone brings with them to take pictures would annoy you. Why can't folks just enjoy the experience for themselves?

The annoying part is dsl nerds stoping every few steps blocking people so they can look through their VFs. They don't realize how inconsiderate they are.

They stick out like a sore thumb and slow lines down on the rides when they realize they have to show their expensive equipment.

What are you talking about? I've never had to 'show' my DSLR on any of the rides.

Bags and cameras are not allowed on roller coasters and many ride at WDW parks unless they are in your pocket.

BS.

If you've been to Disney you'd know this. Some rides have pockets to store stuff, but they are not that safe.

Yes, I have been in DW many times, and the bag is either stuffed into the cargo pocket or wrapped around my shoulder. Very secure.

If you're talking about security at the front gates, they make anyone with a bag stop and open them. Not just people with cameras.

And guess who is the prime target for thieves?

I guess people that leave their stuff laying around unguarded. I've been to WDW numerous times over the years

But it is clear you didn't ride on the better rides.

What do you consider the 'better rides'? I've been on pretty much all of them. The only one I can recall leaving my bag is Rock N Roller Coaster, only b/c my wife didn't want to go on it so she held it.

People do not leave their purses unattended, but they get pulled from their hands and stolen anyway.

I doubt it happens near as much as you're trying to imply, unless you have some statistics you'd like to share. Yes, it's very crowded at times. However, people have paid a lot of money to get inside and just want to have a good time. Thieves are going to pick targets where they don't have to spend over $100 just to get into the gate.

, not once was I worried about someone trying to go into my bag or yank the camera from around my shoulder.

Then you are lucky.

Nope. I'm simply careful with my stuff. Luck has nothing to do with it.

Get an ILC that fits in a pocket like the gx9. Then put the tiny 25mm f1.7 pancake prime in another pocket with the little 35-100mm zoom. Then you can go on rides, walk around with both hands free, and you don't have a heavy bullseye hanging around your neck. Most of the time youll use the mini 12-32mm kit zoom (it is very sharp). Indoors switch to the f1.7 prime and use 5 axis IBIS. And when needed switch to that little telephoto zoom that fits in most pockets.

But most important, have fun! And don't be the Dufus more concerned about his camera instead of enjoying vacation with his family.

Have fun and enjoy the park YOUR OWN WAY. Don't be the dufus trying to tell others how they should enjoy it.

Just trying to point out that most DSLR users are very inconsiderate and waste their vacation obsessed with their giant camera and heavy bag. They don't go on the fun coasters and water rides and they don't realize how annoying they are.

No, you're just demonizing people with specific types of cameras. Please, don't tell me or anyone else for that matter what should or shouldn't be fun. I've always enjoyed my trips.

 

[Mark B.]

Its going to be hot

That depends a lot on when the OP is going. Personally we avoid going from May - September.

 

[MaxCh]

There is nothing more annoying than the people lugging around their big ILCs at Disney and Univeral.

Good, hope I annoy you if you see me. Kinda weird that what someone brings with them to take pictures would annoy you. Why can't folks just enjoy the experience for themselves?

The annoying part is dsl nerds stoping every few steps blocking people so they can look through their VFs. They don't realize how inconsiderate they are.

I don't think people really stop every few seconds and if they do want to stop and take pictures they do the same with smart phones.

In general, people can often stop almost anywhere they want in the parks. People stop because they are tired or they need to take care of the kids and yes - when they want to take pictures. That is why it is called a park.

They stick out like a sore thumb and slow lines down on the rides when they realize they have to show their expensive equipment.

What are you talking about? I've never had to 'show' my DSLR on any of the rides.

Bags and cameras are not allowed on roller coasters and many ride at WDW parks unless they are in your pocket.

That is not exactly correct. Cameras and bags are allowed on many Disney slow rides (i.e. it is the Wonderful World, Pirates of the Carribean, e.t.c) You can also bring your bags to many Universal Studios rides although photography is not allowed.

If you've been to Disney you'd know this. Some rides have pockets to store stuff, but they are not that safe.

Sure, there is some risk. However I used lockers in Universal Studios to store my $8000 photo gear last week (two cameras and two lenses) without any problems.

If you're talking about security at the front gates, they make anyone with a bag stop and open them. Not just people with cameras.

And guess who is the prime target for thieves?

I guess people that leave their stuff laying around unguarded. I've been to WDW numerous times over the years

But it is clear you didn't ride on the better rides.

People do not leave their purses unattended, but they get pulled from their hands and stolen anyway.

, not once was I worried about someone trying to go into my bag or yank the camera from around my shoulder.

Then you are lucky.

I am yet to see anybody try to yank my cameras from around my shoulder in Orlando parks or anywhere else.

Get an ILC that fits in a pocket like the gx9. Then put the tiny 25mm f1.7 pancake prime in another pocket with the little 35-100mm zoom. Then you can go on rides, walk around with both hands free, and you don't have a heavy bullseye hanging around your neck. Most of the time youll use the mini 12-32mm kit zoom (it is very sharp). Indoors switch to the f1.7 prime and use 5 axis IBIS. And when needed switch to that little telephoto zoom that fits in most pockets.

But most important, have fun! And don't be the Dufus more concerned about his camera instead of enjoying vacation with his family.

Have fun and enjoy the park YOUR OWN WAY. Don't be the dufus trying to tell others how they should enjoy it.

Just trying to point out that most DSLR users are very inconsiderate and waste their vacation obsessed with their giant camera and heavy bag.

Why do you think people with DLSR "waste" their vacations? I was in Universal Studios last week with TWO huge cameras, a huge telephoto lens and a big external flash. I had a great time and can't wait to go back. I certainly don't feel like I wasted the vacation

They don't go on the fun coasters and water rides and they don't realize how annoying they are.

I don't go on most roller coasters because I don't like roller coasters. Why is that annoying to you ?

 

[PhotoFactor]

Just trying to point out that most DSLR users are very inconsiderate

This sentence tells us everything we need to know about your opinions.

 

[Craig Gillette]

Depends on how much you want to carry. I'd still think the A6500 kit would be fine. You've got the flash so the 16-70 should be fine in the character dining. Agree tghe 24mm might be tight, everything is kind of forced for appearances, of course.

 

[madhav56]

Since weight is a bother, I would suggest you take your 6500 which will deliver what you need. a7rIIi will weigh more than 6500.

If your family is ok with your photography, then you may get your time, but otherwise most times you will be stealing time. In which case, if you want to be satisfied at the end of the day with the images captured, you better take along what is familiar, convenient and easy to use for you.

Since you are already shooting apsc, I will not suggest a compact camera with 1" sensor.

 

[RetCapt]

We have been to Disneyland (SoCal) numerous times, so I know what is the ideal camera for me, but not necessarily for someone else. First off, I see no reason to be so negatively judgemental of people based on the equipment they choose to carry. When we are at Disney we are in an extremely crowded environment, so people are constantly going to be stopping, standing, etc, to get photos. The camera of choice, from smart phone to DSLR, makes no difference, and I see no point in condemning someone for their specific choices in this wide spectrum. We all need to be tolerant of others in close quarters, and that is expected at Disney. The camera that suits me best for Disney is my Olympus TG-4, which I carry in a Pelican Micro Case. This camera is extremely portable because of its compact size. The fast lens (f2 at the wide end) is helpful for night photography, and the flash works well for fill purposes. The fact that it is shock/water resistant means that jarring and wet rides won't hurt it. The Pelican case provides an additional level of protection along with quick access. When it is slung over my shoulder I hardly know it is there. Given that it is frequently hot at Disney, and one is going to be doing a lot of walking and standing on hot pavement, the comfort factor becomes an issue of some importance. Not specifically for Disney, but the strap I use for this rig is a PacSafe because of its overall strength since I use this camera in some adverse natural environments. That said though, I would tend to agree with one poster who submitted that the hefty entrance fee probably culls out a considerable portion of would-be thieves. If I feel smugly (but hopefully subtly) superior with my comfortable, compact, light weight, rugged, capable rig it is my responsibility not to overtly let on such thoughts to others more burdened.

 

[fotografffic]

Bring a lot of money. Prices are astronomical and going up.

Yes, my sister was just their with our niece. $450 for the two of them for a two day pass. That doesn't include hotel and meals.

It's been a while since I've been there but when we did we stayed at a Disney hotel that included bus rides to and from the park; much better than driving our own car. Don't know if it's still part of the deal, but by staying at the hotel we could get into the park an hour before it opened, and stay and hour or two after it closed. Wasn't so crowded and attractions and rides were quicker to access.

I concur on bringing a lightweight camera and a smartphone. Enjoy yourself . Most of the inside attractions were adequately lighted and I don't recall using a flash.