Nemo couldn’t look happier to greet guests as they enter The Seas.
Disney is filled with characters, many of them perfectly still and perfectly willing to have their photos taken. And yet, capturing an inanimate figure’s true character isn’t as easy as it looks. Just ask Amy, who has but a few contributions in this gallery. It’s Mark who’s the Disney character whisperer, as he has a way of imbuing these fabricated creations with the life that Disney has given them in story and in film. And he makes it look easy!
So… just what is that secret ingredient that gives a photograph of an inanimate object life and character? After much scrutiny, analysis and observation, Amy has concluded that it’s that very special blend of good technique and seeing with love. In contrast, Amy has solid technique: she knows how to use her equipment to strike interesting angles or perspectives and compose images for maximum visual impact. But when she shoots an inanimate figure, that’s what she’s seeing, and the resulting photograph, while technically sound, is lacking in life. Mark, on the other hand, sees the life in the character, and he photographs his subject as a portrait photographer: with respect and care—and good technique.
The next time you’re at a Disney park or resort, give character photography a shot. You may discover you have that magical something that gives a photograph life beyond its bounds.
Disclaimer: No characters were harmed, manipulated, cajoled or controlled in the making of the photographs contained in this gallery.
Click the slidemounts to view at full size
-
- A short telephoto lens brings a sense of intimacy to this “candid” portrait of Francis the ladybug (who’s no lady!).
-
- A quiet moment in which to daydream amidst the hustle and bustle of Toontown.
-
- A giant Daisy Duck topiary adorned with lush greenery and flowers for the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival seems to be eagerly awaiting her date with Donald.
-
- A regal portrait of Adventureland’s golden giant.
-
- Goofy looks as exhausted as everyone else who waits ’til the end of a long day to hit the gift store.
-
- A wide-angle lens, beautiful afternoon light, and the perfect angle from which to accentuate the subject’s distinct features and lithe form make this photo a real standout.
-
- A sharp eye is required both to see this subject and then to photograph it as a character, rather than an object.
-
- Heimlich, in a flattering light, enjoying his favorite pastime. His position in the frame gives room to set the scene.
-
- Mater interacting with his “handler” before taking to the road, his good attitude on display even backstage.
-
- An iPhone was at the ready to capture this secret meeting of the Minnie Mouse club.
-
- Looks like some feathers may have gotten ruffled in Adventureland!
-
- Nemo couldn’t look happier to greet guests as they enter The Seas.
-
- Tuck (or is it Roll?) looks ready for another round of buggy bumping.
-
- Gertie, peering above the tropical fronds against a moody sky.
-
- This DinoLand denizen looks positively ferocious despite being cuddly.
-
- This image capturing a rare moment of “Mickey Envy” was achieved with a short lens and a fast film speed.
-
- Wish we could read Japanese, but this little guy looks eager to get his message across.
-
- This “Hidden Minnie” paparazzi photo was taken on the move.
-
- The light and shadow played nicely together for this “headshot” of Francis in between Boogies.
-
- Little Donalds lined up on a shelf, but the first in line seems aware of the precipice.
-
- Not only does Goofy want to get in on the shot, but so does Goofy and also Goofy.
-
- This close-up just begs for a hug.
-
- Bugs abound in Bugs Land, but this little firefly was way up high.
-
- Caught looking out the window, monitoring crowd size, perhaps, before stepping out to call on Minnie.
