A debate is raging amongst Disney fans.
Disney adults having spirited discussions about everything from foods in the parks to attraction closures is nothing new, as passionate debates have long been part of the fandom. We recently noticed a certain theme park etiquette discussion spreading across numerous social media discussion feeds.
Across several Disney-related Facebook groups and social media pages, discussion has begun on the proper etiquette for raising one’s arms while on a ride. Some fans have expressed dismay at the fact that other riders raising arms in front of them “ruins” their ride photos.
There are some that agree, as commenter MJ explained on one of these posts, “I have to to agree with waiting a long time for a picture with my grandchildren. And we were on second and third seat and did not get a picture worth saving. Do not know when we will have the opportunity again.”
However, they same to be in the minority. The general opinion seems to be that those who lift their arms are simply enjoying the ride. As reader Tiffany put it, “Imagine being upset with someone enjoying themselves on a ride…”
Others pointed out that — between the speed of the rides as well as the locations of in-ride cameras being concealed — there was little to no chance anyone was raising their arms to ruin photos on purpose. As Jen put it, “It stinks for your photo but it’s also not fair to get worked up over. Hands up on a coaster is normal, not everyone knows where the camera is or cares, it’s not intentional.”
Still, some other commenters pointed out that the problem could be alleviated by requesting the first row on a given ride. Commenter Amanda explained, “We like to request certain rows to avoid this issue!!! It might add a couple extra minutes to wait for the row you want, but worth it if you’re wanting your pics unblocked by others…”
This debate falls under the larger debate about theme park photography etiquette. While guests have been taking photos at Disneyland since Disneyland first opened in 1955, the amount of photos taken on a daily basis has grown exponentially since film gave way to digital photography and later still smartphone cameras. This in-turn has led to increased unspoken rules of photography etiquette.
For example, while it’s somewhat impossible to avoid being in the background of others’ photos at Walt Disney World, one is expected to do their best to avoid walking through or photobombing other guest photos in front of icons like Cinderella Castle or Spaceship Earth.
Debates about Disney theme parks and the etiquette within them have long been part of Disney fandom, and likely will continue to be as the parks only continue to grow. Stay tuned to AllEars for further discussion on appropriate Disney Parks behavior.
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How do you feel about the “arms up during ride photos” issue? Let us know in the comments below.
Which ride pictures get ruined by raised arms? Disney cameras are well placed and , unless you’re looking for a studio quality picture with nobody else in frame, any photo should be satisfactory.
Lets be honest, when was the last time you went to someonens house and they had their ride photo framed above the mantle? These pics are cute but quickly forgotten and stored away momentos. People need to stop getting so angry over little things.
If the pictures means that much to you, ask to get the front row. My arms are up for most rides.