Disneyland photography blog
I have always loved this view down Royal Street, especially with the elements of Christmas to jazz it up. I decided to take this photo in a vintage inspired direction and ended up really enjoying it. It’s a fun process to experiment with the blending of old and new and see what comes of it.
In the midst of a cold and wet Winter night, Buena Vista Street manages to impart a glistening warmth through its charming atmosphere and swinging music. While I know that BVS isn’t limited to one decade in particular, I have often imagined what it would be like to live in the roaring 20s, much like Owen Wilson’s character in the movie, Midnight in Paris. Like him (and the moral the movie suggests), I’m certain that I heartily romanticize the notion. That’s part of the reason I enjoy Disney parks and, in this case, Buena Vista Street so much. They don’t correct my nostalgia. They let me immerse myself in an idealistic impressionism and walk the street proudly adorning rose colored lenses. The Christmas season makes it all the sweeter with its emphasis on merriment, peace and goodwill toward men. What can I say? I’m a sucker for fluff.
The Christmas tree on Buena Vista Street has such a cool retro feel to it. Although it’s quite rich and vibrant in person, when I sat down to work on this photo, it seemed to take me another direction that had me thinking of vintage photos from the 1950s.
I really enjoy watching Disneyland get dressed up for the holidays, in ways both small and grand. I was really taken by the flowers in front of the New Orleans Square station on a recent trip to the park. It’s the touches like these that really tie things together.
Michaela and I are off this year to spend Thanksgiving with our good friend, Dave. Not only is he a great friend, he’s a most gracious host and an extraordinary cook. We anticipate food comas to set in by 5:00PM and we’re bringing pants with elastic waste bands to make sure we’re prepared. He doesn’t judge. He just keeps bringing out more food.
There’s nothing like the cherished time spent with family and friends. I’m grateful that we have a day set aside to focus on that and remember what life is all about. Whatever your festivities may be today and wherever they take you, we pray your day is blessed. We’re thankful for so very much and certainly not least of all — you. Happy Thanksgiving!
“Jungle all the way” is the motto of the new Jingle Cruise Christmas overlay installment at Disneyland. It seems fitting, especially in light of the mixed feedback this recent addition has garnered. With the bar having been set so high by Disney with overlays, it can be a jungle out there for variations on classic attractions. Looking at the broad picture, I’m thrilled for the skippers to have the opportunity to change things up a little (an opportunity that I hope will extend beyond the holidays).
