Magic Kingdom

The Mill

There are a lot of shots out there of this area of the Magic Kingdom at night, but they're usually shot wide to get more of Tom Sawyer's Island and the Liberty Belle. I decided to zoom in on Harper's Mill for a more detailed shot of it. I love how the water reflection got blurry from the long exposure. I took this from the Frontierland wooden walkway - I just love this area at night. It's usually pretty quiet, as most of the traffic is up on the main path. And looking out over the Rivers of America can be so serene!

Empty

This is the shot. This is the one I went on my last trip to get. This is why I got up at 6:00am on a Saturday in WDW. I couldn't wait to post this shot after I took it. I spent more time processing this photo than any of my other ones to get it just right - and here it is. I hope you like it!

The Herd

Here they come - all the guests!! It's amazing how quickly Main Street goes from deserted to packed from edge to edge with people eager to start their day at The Magic Kingdom.

Steering the Ship

Pirates of the Caribbean is a notoriously difficult ride to photography. The combination of darkness and very strongly colored show lighting makes it very challenging. But, armed with a good camera and a fast lens and it's doable!

Under the Turret

During my last trip, I tried to get some lesser-seen shots of Cinderella Castle. These turrets that double as control booths were added last year. Other than the functional purpose they serve, I really love the depth they add to The Hub. Photographing the castle from underneath one added some nice framing.

Thank You, and Goodnight

In case you haven't noticed already, I am in love with the Magic Kingdom. And I love it even more at night. Moments like this one, where you can feel like you're all alone - even if just for a moment, are worth every penny that a trip costs to me! Capturing a beautiful photo of it - just a bonus!

"To all who come to this happy place: Welcome!"

Back when there used to be a Welcome Show at the train station each morning before the park opened, it concluded with this. The mayor would count down and these 5 little fireworks signified the opening of the Magic Kingdom for the day.

Sunrise At the Hub

I'm a big fan of the new hub at the Magic Kingdom. With the increased crowd levels, the old design was very restrictive and overall cramped. But this new design is very open and modern, but with a touch of the classic Disney feel. It's a great place to take a break from walking and have a snack while taking in all that is the Magic Kingdom.

Main Street USA

There are not many places in the Magic Kingdom that top this view. On my last trip, I spent about 20 minutes in this spot just taking it all in.

From the Station

I've said it before, and I'll say it again - the Main Street USA Train Station is my favorite spot to hang out in the Magic Kingdom. The elevated view provides just enough height to see down to The Hub, as well as all the people walking around the main drag. And, from a photographic perspective, there's a ton of wonderful lines!

Morning Glow

As many of you know, on my last trip to the World I got into the Magic Kingdom before it was open. This experience was worth the price of my whole trip to me. Seeing the sun still rising and casting a golden glow on the castle was just too cool. And it was so quiet! The music wasn't even on yet. It was almost like being in the park alone. Almost...

Hitchhikers

"Ah, there you are, and just in time! There's a little matter I forgot to mention. Beware of hitchhiking ghosts!"

Peoplemover Castle

Taken from aboard the Tomorrowland Transit Authority Peoplemover, here's a shot of Cinderella Castle from higher up.

Evil Emperor

Zurg - the ultimate enemy in Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. I've never gotten a very high score on this ride. Next time I'll have to focus more on the task at hand instead of taking pictures!

Before the Splash

This was my first time ever on Splash Mountain. I know, I know. It just never happened before this! I walked away from it thinking it was SO long, but still pretty entertaining. This drop is definitely the best part. Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah!!