Capturing DVC Moments: Priceless!

It’s been proven that we need to take vacations. It’s good for us physically and mentally to have a break in our routine, not to mention a change of scenery. Spending quality time with our loved ones creating special memories builds and strengthens our relationships. Thanks to being a Disney Vacation Club member, we get to do all those things while staying in some of the best accommodations and destinations worldwide.

Once we return home from our vacation, we feel refreshed and renewed. However, the challenge for some of us is capturing those moments and holding onto them as day to day life resumes. Most of us remember to take the pictures when a character arrives or while walking down Main Street USA, but often, the DVC Resort areas are overlooked.  As a professional photographer, I’ve been fortunate enough to capture friends and family in and around the Disney and Orlando resort areas, and have found some priceless spots worth sharing.

The Grand Floridian

There are two fountains that make a lovely background for both group and individual photos. One is found as you walk out of the back of the DVC villas and the other can be found as you walk out of the main building, just before the pool area. The grounds are beautiful at this resort and casual photos of you, your children or family walking the paths make for great photos.

The Polynesian

There are so many great areas at this resort, with its lush green landscaping. Many people love to have a photo taken on a path in the front of the resort where the monorail passes by. This allows for a photo that has both the lovely green foliage and the monorail as your backdrop. Another favorite is gathering the family on one of the swings on the beach (or just the two of you), with the sun setting in the background.

Bay Lake Tower

At this resort, you will find one of my all-time favorite areas for photos! Located in the back of the Contemporary, just a short walk from Bay Lake Tower, you will find a Mickey Mouse structure.  You can sit on one of the ears or gather the whole family in front of it for that iconic Disney feel.   Not to be ignored, the dock area nearby also gives a beautiful background for any photo.

Wilderness Lodge

Who can resist a photo taken with the waterfalls in the background? It’s a must if you are staying at this Pacific-Northwestern themed property. Step out back to view a plethora of lovely streams and picture-perfect landscaping, boat docks and lakeside options, ideal for any background. Even the front of the resort, across from the entrance, makes a stunning area for photos.

Animal Kingdom Lodge

In front of Jambo house, as you are going to or from the parking lot, there is a walk-through area of landscaping that has foliage found in Africa. It’s a quick, simply great background for photos, especially if you’ve just arrived! In the back of both Jambo and Kidani, you will find a fire pit, another great backdrop to consider. With several animal viewing areas available at both houses, you are sure to find another great spot for a photo – maybe even with a giraffe or zebra as your photo-bomber!

Beach Club Resort and Boardwalk

This area is chock full of some of the best photo possibilities. Let’s start with the lighthouse. From photos on the long boardwalk in front of it to the door frame areas itself, you really can’t go wrong. Along the beach area in front of the Beach Club, there are swings and rocks to sit on, or you can stand and have a photo with the Boardwalk Resort in the background. A little farther down, there is a gazebo that is often used for weddings. This makes a wonderfully framed photo overlooking the water, and if the sun is setting, the view is breathtaking!

On the busy side of the boardwalk is a photo booth, which makes for adorable photos of two or more people peaking out at each other from the door ways. Last but not least, there is a bench located past the Big River restaurant and before Jellyrolls. This unassuming bench is in front of huge picture windows which reflect the iconic Epcot ball.

These are just some of the spots I’ve fallen in love with as I’ve spent time capturing special moments with my DVC friends and families. If you visit them on your next trip, please send me a note and maybe a picture of your favorite shot.

Do you have a favorite photo spot you’d like to share with us or perhaps be photographed?  Please comment below!

Guest Contributor, Pat Saizan, specializes in creative contemporary portrait photography and fine-art photography for families, children, couples and individuals. “I strive to capture individual expressions and spirit in each photo.” You’ll find vibrant colors and artistic touches to bring out the full spectrum of a personality or relationship. Sessions are available at the Walt Disney World Resorts, Universal Orlando Theme Parks (and resorts) and SeaWorld. For samples of her work, visit our Resort Pages or PatSaizanPhotography.com   Enjoyed her article? Let her know by commenting below or email her directly at pat@patsaizanphotography.com