Discovering A Whole New World of Disney-An October 2013 Photo Safari **Updated 2/20

[DaveinFallsChurch]

Woot woot! 10 days 'til Disney!!!

Even though that wasn't your top choice room to sit in, it was super neat to see pictures of it. That was closed when I ate dinner there so we didn't get a peak!

Lovin' your shots from Enchanted Tales! I've never done that one so it was neat to see all the details inside the cottage.

You would love even more the details I didn't get to take pictures of along the queue inside the cottage! We'll be doing this one standby at rope drop so I'll try to grab some good photos!

 

[TheMaxRebo]

I fell a little behind so first wanted to say how amazing your pictures of FOTLK were - so vibrant and amazing how clear you got some of those fire-spinning pics!

Good point about not knowing Beast's real name. If it is any consolation to him, the character on Once Upon A Time has tons of names as he is Beast/Rumpelstiltskin/The Dark One/The Crocodile/Some more I am probably forgetting.

You got a pretty solid pic of the "falling petal rose" effect

BTW - are those statues of gargoyles? I always thought they were minotaurs (unless they are the same thing/sub-categories of the same thing)

Very good call with the sketch of the music box ... and is that slightly smaller sketch next to it Beast/Belle doing the Dirty Dancing final lift?

and since you posted yesterday you were at you 10 day mark to you next trip that means today you get to do the official "Single digits countdown" happy dance

 

[teekathepony]

Hooray for 10 days!! Actually 9 days now. Single digits!! And I can't wait to see the pictures from this trip! AKL especially!

 

[DaveinFallsChurch]

I fell a little behind so first wanted to say how amazing your pictures of FOTLK were - so vibrant and amazing how clear you got some of those fire-spinning pics!

Good point about not knowing Beast's real name. If it is any consolation to him, the character on Once Upon A Time has tons of names as he is Beast/Rumpelstiltskin/The Dark One/The Crocodile/Some more I am probably forgetting.

You got a pretty solid pic of the "falling petal rose" effect

BTW - are those statues of gargoyles? I always thought they were minotaurs (unless they are the same thing/sub-categories of the same thing)

Very good call with the sketch of the music box ... and is that slightly smaller sketch next to it Beast/Belle doing the Dirty Dancing final lift?

and since you posted yesterday you were at you 10 day mark to you next trip that means today you get to do the official "Single digits countdown" happy dance

You know, now that you mention it I think you're right. They look more like minotaurs than gargoyles!

And yes, I did notice that sketch too of the Beast lifting up Belle which I found hilarious. Like you said, it could be a re-enactment of the Dirty Dancing lift. It also reminded me of the scene when Vader lifted the Emperor up and threw him down the chute at the end of Return of the Jedi.

Hooray for 10 days!! Actually 9 days now. Single digits!! And I can't wait to see the pictures from this trip! AKL especially!

Single digits!! My brother's family visited us briefly last night as they were passing through so I basically talked non-stop about our Disney plans with my sister in law yesterday night and this morning!

After we check in on our arrival night and the kids go to bed I fully plan on staying up late and roaming the resort with my camera!

 

[NDQuietman]

Congrats Dave, very excited for you and jealous at the same time lol

I'm not familiar with the Pirates and Pals, how does it work?

 

[emmysmommy]

Dave, guess what? ......Single digits now!!!

Awesome photos at BoG! I toured the gallery after dinner last time and took a lot of photos but just didn't get that the room was anything special. Although having Beast and Bell larger than life dancing by your table with the music box is pretty cool.

Have we ever seen you take a photo of your food? Not sure.... I think I would be more shocked if you did share a photo of what you ordered. In any event, glad that it was good.

Sounds like a great trip planned with the family - especially waking up to that savanna view every morning.

 

[mhf]

Thank you for this thread! The photos were absolutely wonderful and they gave me inspiration...I'm headed down solo on Feb 2 for a work class for a week. There's only 13 of us so no way to skip a day. But the evenings...ahhhhhh.....

Hello from across the Potomac!

Melissa in Maryland

 

[DaveinFallsChurch]

Congrats Dave, very excited for you and jealous at the same time lol

I'm not familiar with the Pirates and Pals, how does it work?

Thanks!! It'll be our first Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage. It's a fireworks cruise that takes off from Contemporary Resort and parks the boat in the middle of the lake to watch Wishes. Before leaving there are tons of snacks for the kids and a meet and greet with Hook and Smee. After the fireworks, the boats return to the docks and Peter Pan awaits for a meet and greet!

Dave, guess what? ......Single digits now!!!

Awesome photos at BoG! I toured the gallery after dinner last time and took a lot of photos but just didn't get that the room was anything special. Although having Beast and Bell larger than life dancing by your table with the music box is pretty cool.

Have we ever seen you take a photo of your food? Not sure.... I think I would be more shocked if you did share a photo of what you ordered. In any event, glad that it was good.

Sounds like a great trip planned with the family - especially waking up to that savanna view every morning.

Thanks Brenda! Yep! Been doing the single digit dance today!

I'm sooooo excited about our Savanna view room!

Hmmmm, I may have to get one good pictures of an entree from this trip just to shock you!

Thank you for this thread! The photos were absolutely wonderful and they gave me inspiration...I'm headed down solo on Feb 2 for a work class for a week. There's only 13 of us so no way to skip a day. But the evenings...ahhhhhh.....

Hello from across the Potomac!

Melissa in Maryland

Hi Melissa! Thank you for following!

I hope you have a great solo trip! Even if it's just for the evenings I'm sure it'll be so much fun!

 

[DaveinFallsChurch]

Today's update comes from a brief late afternoon visit to Animal Kingdom after attending my conference sessions and before heading to MK for MNSSHP. I really wanted to catch the Jungle Parade which is coming up as one of the last posts for the TR but I also ended up spending a little time quickly hitting some of my favorite places at AK after the parade.

First stop, Dinoland and Dinosaur! Having been on the ride many times, the surprise factor has worn off to a non-existent level. I still enjoy the ride. What can I say, I'm a geek for all things time travel. I also think this ride would be even more awesome if were in a DeLorean. Oh wait, that's another movie at another park. I had been looking forward to attempting some photo shots of the big guy during the ride but was quickly brought down to reality 30 seconds into the ride when I realized this one is even more difficult than the Haunted Mansion.

I read somewhere that there tubes in the queue labeled with the chemical formulation for ketchup, mustard, and mayo. So I looked for them and found them! So basically the secret to time travel is the same for someone's recipe for a dip.

IMG_9191 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

And this bad boy. Dr. Brown had it all wrong. Perhaps if he had chosen the vortex capacitor rather than the flux capacitor, Marty wouldn't have had so much difficulty trying to come back home from 1955.

IMG_9193 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

Entering the Time Tunnel! Hang on people because the lighting for photos goes all down hill from here!

IMG_9199 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

Either we are exiting the time vortex or it's another green-eyed viking staring me down.

IMG_9202 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

Our first dinosaur encounter and the only one that barely registrates on my camera sensors.

IMG_9206 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

It's a hot mess from here. And I'm not just talking about the asteroid.

IMG_9219 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

Argggh! Look at those teeth!! They're practically glowing!

IMG_9230 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

Back home!

IMG_9279 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

I saw this on the exit path between Dinosaur and the gift shop.

IMG_9284 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

Above the entrance of the gift shop. And I bet it does feel like the Ice Age in there in August!

IMG_9286 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

I didn't truly appreciate this on prior trips but it's amazing how much thought and detail goes into designing popcorn carts around the World!

IMG_9288 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

I can't remember if this was on the roof of Dino Bite Snacks or Restaurantosaurus, but it was one of my favorite finds in Dinoland.

IMG_9522 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

This was the first time I passed the sign without spending an hour inside the Boneyard. Our kids just love the playground and could easily spend half a day inside!

IMG_9526 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

I believe we're now back out at Discovery Island.

IMG_9528 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

Saw Dug and Russell greeting guests and took pictures from the side. Refrained from yelling out "Squirrel!".


IMG_9537 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr


IMG_9534 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

Wish they had given Russell the Ellie Badge for his costume!

IMG_9535 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

That's Flaming Tree BBQ in the background.

IMG_9550 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

I finally made a brief stop at Africa to watch the drummers. Never seen them before in prior trips.


IMG_9716 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr


IMG_9728 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

On my way out I took the Discovery Island Trails. I really miss the original trails that took us right up against and around the Tree of Life. Of course most of that trail has been now off limits ever since that one branch decided to drop. You could really appreciate the animal carvings on the trunk before but now there's a considerably amount of distance. Here are the pictures I got from the walk through.

Well, this one isn't from the trail but from the Africa Bridge.

IMG_9739 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

Ahh, that's better. The trails.

IMG_9743 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr


IMG_9745 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr


IMG_9746 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr


IMG_9752 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

After that I practically ran, ahem, I mean walked really fast to exit the park to head over to MNSSHP!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Haha, This post makes me miss the Back to the Future ride at Universal.

Ketchup, mustard, and mayo??? Those genius imagineers.

I never ever even considered having a camera out for Dinosaur. Honestly, the fact that you got anything at all is pretty impressive.

 

[jkc0325]

Phew!!! Finally caught up!!!!! Stunning pictures Dave, just stunning. I love love love the TOT pictures. I just love the theme of that ride. On our last trip my dd got a great shot of on of the lamps with the mist and morning sun.

I was laughing at your description of Space Mountain. My dd14 dragged us on that ride about 20 times during our last trip. In the last few ride photos I look bored to tears and she still looks like she's having the time of her life.

I chose not to bring my DSLR on our last trip and after looking at all your pictures I think I will be bringing it along on the next trip again. I need to do a little more research and practice with it before we go though. What I really need is a class. I'm a hands on learner...I have a hard time just reading something and learning from that.

After reading the last 20 pages of your report I feel like I went to Disney this morning, thanks!!!! You really should be proud of your work, it's just outstanding!!!! I hope you have a fabulous time on your upcoming trip, can't wait to see those pictures and see the difference in your photographic style once your family is with you again.

Jen

 

[afwdwfan]

On a side note, how is it that we never find out what the Beast's actual name is in the movie?? I guess they were staying consistent with "The Prince." Well at least I hope Belle knows what his name is because that could get very awkward very fast when the guy goes "Really? You're still calling me Beast?It's been like three years since the spell broke!"

Something tells me you've put a lot of thought into this situation...

A DIS meet and a dinner!! We were all very excited as it was the first time dining at BOG for all of us.

A Dismeet and dinner... at the most visually impressive restaurant on property. Yeah, not a bad evening at all.

I met them at the BOG bridge and we were there about 15 minutes early. When I checked in at the podium the CM tells me I'm too early. HUH?

Oh, I hate that!!!! Happened to me at Chef Mickey last year. I mean they want you to be there promptly, but if you happen to get there too early they want you to leave and come back later... I don't care if you can't seat me, but at least let me check in so the other people who have my ADR window don't stroll up and check in in front of me... Sorry. Rant over.

And I don't know about you but out of the three rooms the Gallery was about.....ohhhh....number 3 on my wish list of where I wanted to be seated.

Yeah, I think I'd agree with that assessment.

The whispering armors.

I love those things!

And my favorite picture from the restaurant.

IMG_1093-2 by DaveinFallsChurch, on Flickr

The pantsless no name prince...

Anyway, the only picture I got off was of Lumiere looking a bit.....ahem.....sleezy?

Well... that isn't quite so far fetched if you think about how he interacted with the feather duster/maid in the movie...

Nope, it's not hump day.

Darn

Ladies and Gentlemen, we have now reached the 10 day mark for our family trip to Disney! Excuse me for a second.......

Even better! I'm officially jealous.

First stop, Dinoland and Dinosaur! Having been on the ride many times, the surprise factor has worn off to a non-existent level. I still enjoy the ride. What can I say, I'm a geek for all things time travel. I also think this ride would be even more awesome if were in a DeLorean.

I agree with every word of that.

Oh wait, that's another movie at another park.

Not any more... I enjoy the Simpsons, but miss riding in the Delorean.

Saw Dug and Russell greeting guests and took pictures from the side. Refrained from yelling out "Squirrel!".

How could you resist?

 

[DaveinFallsChurch]

Haha, This post makes me miss the Back to the Future ride at Universal.

Ketchup, mustard, and mayo??? Those genius imagineers.

I never ever even considered having a camera out for Dinosaur. Honestly, the fact that you got anything at all is pretty impressive.

Yeah, I miss the Back to the Future ride as well. It's too bad they couldn't keep the ride going.

Phew!!! Finally caught up!!!!! Stunning pictures Dave, just stunning. I love love love the TOT pictures. I just love the theme of that ride. On our last trip my dd got a great shot of on of the lamps with the mist and morning sun.

I was laughing at your description of Space Mountain. My dd14 dragged us on that ride about 20 times during our last trip. In the last few ride photos I look bored to tears and she still looks like she's having the time of her life.

I chose not to bring my DSLR on our last trip and after looking at all your pictures I think I will be bringing it along on the next trip again. I need to do a little more research and practice with it before we go though. What I really need is a class. I'm a hands on learner...I have a hard time just reading something and learning from that.

After reading the last 20 pages of your report I feel like I went to Disney this morning, thanks!!!! You really should be proud of your work, it's just outstanding!!!! I hope you have a fabulous time on your upcoming trip, can't wait to see those pictures and see the difference in your photographic style once your family is with you again.

Jen

Hi Jen! I think I remember seeing that picture your DD took at ToT on the October FB page? If it's the one I'm thinking of - I loved it!

You should look to see if there are any local camera stores that provide small inexpensive workshops on photography.

Thanks again for the very kind of words! There will be a definite difference in my photography style for this trip as I expect my camera to be pointed at my family most of the time and far less attempts at the scenic shots that I was able to get in October. But I actually enjoy photographing people a whole lot more rather than scenery trying to capture their emotions so I'm excited to see what kind of pictures I can get for this trip. Also I'm sure that the total number of pictures for this trip will be far less since I'll be more preoccupied with enjoying the moments with my family and chasing after the kids with my camera resting by my side.

Oh, I hate that!!!! Happened to me at Chef Mickey last year. I mean they want you to be there promptly, but if you happen to get there too early they want you to leave and come back later... I don't care if you can't seat me, but at least let me check in so the other people who have my ADR window don't stroll up and check in in front of me... Sorry. Rant over.

The pantsless no name prince...

Well... that isn't quite so far fetched if you think about how he interacted with the feather duster/maid in the movie...

I agree with you about showing up early for the ADRs. And it wasn't like I showed up 30-40 minutes early.

Hmmmm, now that you mention it they probably should have done a better color coordination with the prince in that mural for his pants.

I totally forgot about Lumiere's interactions with the maid. Yes, okay, that expression on the photograph fits him then.

 

[JulieODC]

I am loving your AK photos. There are just so many subtle details throughout that park, and you really captured so many of them!

 

[wiigirl]

Great update!

 

[DaveinFallsChurch]

I am loving your AK photos. There are just so many subtle details throughout that park, and you really captured so many of them!

Thanks! AK is such a great place for photography. I can't wait to go back and try to find more new details that I've missed.

Great update!

Thank you!

 

[teekathepony]

That camera on the "take your best shot" sign -- I have one of those! Hehe
I love dinosaur too. I'm less a time travel geek and more a Dino geek. Ever since I was a kid I've loved dinosaurs, so while the surprise has worn off for me too, I also still enjoy the ride!
(The delorean would be really cool though!)
Love all the pics of the details, especially the popcorn cart. So pun-ny!

Sent from my iPad using DISBoards

 

[DaveinFallsChurch]

That camera on the "take your best shot" sign -- I have one of those! Hehe
I love dinosaur too. I'm less a time travel geek and more a Dino geek. Ever since I was a kid I've loved dinosaurs, so while the surprise has worn off for me too, I also still enjoy the ride!
(The delorean would be really cool though!)
Love all the pics of the details, especially the popcorn cart. So pun-ny!

Sent from my iPad using DISBoards

I know, right? Punny in a "corny" way.

So do you ever use one of those old timer cameras? I'd actually be a little afraid that it might explode if I use it.

 

[khertz]

Beautiful BoG pics!! Thanks again so much for inviting us to eat with you at such a coveted ADR. I laughed when I read about DS inviting you to our house... I forgot about that one!

AK is such a photogenic park!! Love the ones of the dancers in Africa. I love all of the entertainment they always seem to have going on around that part of the park. I am pretty amazed at what you were able to capture during Dinosaur! It's always SO dark in there! But maybe that is because I have my eyes closed the whole time...

Your trip is SO CLOSE!!!

 

[DaveinFallsChurch]

Beautiful BoG pics!! Thanks again so much for inviting us to eat with you at such a coveted ADR. I laughed when I read about DS inviting you to our house... I forgot about that one!

AK is such a photogenic park!! Love the ones of the dancers in Africa. I love all of the entertainment they always seem to have going on around that part of the park. I am pretty amazed at what you were able to capture during Dinosaur! It's always SO dark in there! But maybe that is because I have my eyes closed the whole time...

Your trip is SO CLOSE!!!

7 more days! Woo Hoo!! It's snowing quite a bit here today and temps are suppose to plummet through tomorrow. I just need to get to Disney.

I had a great time with you and your family! Thanks for joining me!

For the first time, I'm going to stay in AK after dark during this upcoming trip. I'm so excited to find out how the park looks and feels at night.