Let’s be honest—when you’re deep in the Disney magic with kids in tow (possibly melting down, possibly bouncing with excitement), it’s easy to forget to take photos. But those moments? You’ll want to remember them. Thankfully, Disney has thought of a lot when it comes to making memories, and there are tons of ways to capture great photos at Disney World—even with a big crew.

We’re covering everything: ride photos, PhotoPass photographers, Magic Shots, syncing, missing photos, secret scenic backdrops, and a few tricks to make your memories last beyond the parks.

Ride Photos at Disney World: Smile (or scream) Automatically

Many of Disney’s most iconic rides come with built-in cameras that snap you mid-scream (or mid-smile if you’re cooler than we are). Think Space Mountain, Frozen Ever After, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. If you have a MagicBand or MagicMobile set up, these photos automatically link to your account—like magic.

Extra bonus. If you purchase Lightning Lane Multipass, these are included! They are also included if you purchase Memory Maker (more on that in a moment).

Tip: Make sure everyone has their MagicBands or MagicMobile pass set up and linked in the My Disney Experience app. And yes, you can still get photos even if you’re in the back row.

Tapping for Photos: Don’t Walk Away Too Fast

Some ride photos require a manual tap after the ride—like Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. You’ll see a PhotoPass screen with your photo at the exit. Don’t skip it! Tap your MagicBand or ticket to claim it.

This also applies to character meet and greets and when you’re getting photos taken by a PhotoPass photographer. After the session, the photographer will ask you to tap a MagicBand or your park ticket—whether it’s on your phone via MagicMobile or a physical card.

Pro Tip: PhotoPass photographers will also happily take a few shots with your phone if you ask. One big perk of using their cameras, though? They have flash—super helpful in low light or shady spots. While the image quality can vary (they’re not professional-level like, say, me—wink wink), they usually do a great job. Focus gets missed occasionally (they are human, after all), but the benefit is that the photos don’t eat up space on your phone, so you can save it for video clips and candid moments.

Extra Tip: If you forget to tap or don’t see your photo, jot down the time and ride—or character meet. This makes it easier to recover them later.

Missing Photos at Disney World: The Case of the Vanishing Memories

It happens. A great pic vanishes from your account or never shows up. Don’t panic! It happened to my family after meeting Anna & Elsa. Later that day I noticed that the photos we took with Anna only had a couple. I knew there had to be more.

Inside the My Disney Experience app, there’s a “Missing Photo” form where you can submit info like the time, location, ride, and even what your group was wearing. Disney’s photo team is surprisingly good at detective work. If you’re still in the parks or visiting Disney Springs, there is also a team that can help you too. They are amazing.

If you’re using Memory Maker (more on that in a sec), you’ll definitely want to report any missing photos right away.

PhotoPass Photographers: Let Them Do the Work

Throughout the parks, you’ll see PhotoPass Cast Members with big cameras and smiling faces. These folks are gold for capturing your photos while at Disney World. They’ll snap high-quality family photos in front of the big icons—Cinderella Castle, Tree of Life, Spaceship Earth—but also in more creative, less crowded spots.

You don’t have to buy Memory Maker to take a photo with a PhotoPass photographer. You can still view them in the app and purchase only the ones you love.

Bonus: Ask the photographer if they have any Magic Shots. Which brings us to…

Magic Shots: A Little Extra Pixie Dust

Magic Shots are when Disney adds a little extra to your photo—maybe Stitch is popping out of the ground, or Tinkerbell is sitting in your hand. These vary by location and season, so it’s always fun to ask your photographer what’s available.

Holiday overlays and special event shots (like during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party) are so fun and totally worth the stop.

Memory Maker: Is It Worth It?

If you’re planning to take full advantage of all these photos, Memory Maker is the way to go. It gives you unlimited downloads of ride photos, PhotoPass images, and Magic Shots. It’s around $200 for your whole trip (you can save a bit if you buy it in advance).

With a big family, it adds up fast in value—you might walk away with hundreds of photos without having to juggle your phone or stop mid-snack to take a picture.

👉 Read: Is Memory Maker Worth It?

Capture Your Moment: A Private Mini Photo Session in Disney World

Want something a little more curated? Disney offers Capture Your Moment, a private 20-minute photo session with a PhotoPass photographer. You’ll pick a location in Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, or Hollywood Studios.

This is perfect for milestones—birthdays, engagements, adoption celebrations, or just getting everyone looking in the same direction at once. 😅

Cute & Secret Photo Spots (That Aren’t Just Castles)

Everyone wants the classic Castle pic, but some of our favorite shots come from unexpected corners. Here are some off-the-beaten-path gems:

• The Purple Wall (Tomorrowland, Magic Kingdom): A total Instagram classic
• The Bubblegum Wall (Exit of Spaceship Earth, EPCOT): Bright, colorful fun
• Pineapple Wall (near Aloha Isle, Magic Kingdom): Cute + tropical
• Behind Tree of Life (Animal Kingdom): Walk the Discovery Island Trails for a stunning, peaceful shot
• Bridge with Everest in Background (near Serka Zong Bazaar): Majestic views without the crowd
• Toy Story Land at Sunset: Everything glows golden and magical
• Galaxy’s Edge near the Droid Depot: Unique and immersive

Want more tips like these? Check out our Walt Disney World Planner to help you map your day and fit in photo stops without sacrificing rides.

A Picture Frame You’ll Treasure

Now that you have these beautiful memories—what next? One of our favorite souvenirs is this simple, magical frame that doubles as a place for character signatures. It turns your photo into a piece of art and brings the magic home.

👉 Check out the best Disney World souvenir families will treasure

Final Tips for Stress-Free Disney Photos

• Start early: Crowds (and hair) are best in the morning.
• Coordinate, don’t match: Pick 2-3 colors for outfits to look great in pics without full-on matching.
• Let go of perfection: Some of the best photos are messy, real, and full of personality.
• Take candids: A giggle on Main Street, a sleepy smile at the end of the day—capture it all.

Want help planning outfits? I have a simple and free guide to planning no-fuss outfits for Disney World.

Smile, You’re Making Memories

Whether it’s a wild ride photo or a sweet moment in front of a hidden wall, photos at Disney World are one of the most magical (and lasting) parts of your trip. You don’t have to chase perfection—just capture the joy.

So go ahead—strike a pose, tap that MagicBand, and let Disney do some of the work. And when you get home? Frame those memories, relive the magic, and start dreaming about the next trip.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Follow The Lee Crew on YouTube!