Do It For The ‘Gram! Tips For Running Pictures

Published: August 21, 2019 by Patty Holliday

When it comes to runDisney, I know I’m not going to win. Anything- even the Diaper Dash if they’d let me enter. But being in the Back of the Pack does have some perks: like one-on-one photoshoots with the PhotoPass photographers. Even if you aren’t all alone, you can use some of these tips to get the best running pictures on your next race. Do it for the ‘Gram!(Affiliate links are included in this post)

Do It For The ‘Gram! Tips For Running Pictures

One of the highlights of any runDisney event is spending time in the parks during the race. I mean, it’s kinda why we do it!

This can make for some outstanding and special race pictures if you know how to do it just right. 

It’s a special skill, for sure, but one that anyone can learn with a few pointers.  

And yes, I realize that not everyone cares about great race pictures. If you do not, this post is still applicable to you.

Scroll on down to the giveaway and information on plussing your Walt Disney World pictures. 

Tips For Great Race Pictures at runDisney

Tip 1: Get in line for those characters. It’s worth it! But if you are concerned about waiting too long in lines, send a faster friend ahead of you.

They can run ahead, hold the place in line for the group, and you can score a great group shot together.

But if you use this technique, make sure it’s ONE group shot. There’s no time for individuals and it’s not cool to the other runners if you try to make that happen. 

Tip 2: Have one camera ready to go. The PhotoPass photographer goes first, then look at your own camera for the 2nd picture. 

Tip 3: Buy Memory Maker in Advance. It’s cheaper! And the race pictures can be added to your My Disney Experience account. You’ll look at the back of your race bib for instructions on how to link your bib to the pictures. 

Tip 4: Get your medals and costume pictures in the park after the race. 

If you aren’t a fan of stopping during the race or didn’t see your favorite character on the course, you can still get great Walt Disney World runDisney pictures. 

Take your medal with you for a cool medal shot or even wear your costume to the park.

Be aware there are rules about costumes on adults, so make sure you won’t be mistaken for a cast member if you decide to do this. 

We weren’t sure our costumes would pass, but had no issue at security. We also talked to the parade CMs who were delighted by our look and decided to get us a little extra magic that day. 

We actually got an escort down Main Street, USA to kick off the Move It Shake It Dance and Play It Celebration one year. 

Tip 5: Pose like the characters pose when taking a shot with them. Mirror what they are doing. 

Watch the people in front of you and get an idea for poses- and don’t forget to “borrow” a pose you love!

It makes the pictures stand out so much more when you’re involved with the characters. 

Tip 6: Watch for the green balloons and tents.

This signals that the PhotoPass photographers are just ahead and that means you need to start making a plan. 

If you want to get a great picture, consider the next couple of tips when you see the balloons and tents. 

Tip 7: Timing is everything.

Find your pocket! When you see the green balloons (NOT the runDisney balloon ladies, which is a whole other post!), look over your shoulder first, then slow or pause a little to make a picture pocket.

The key is to leave a little room between you and the runners around you.

The PhotoPass pros will get the shot, but they can’t do a lot if there’s someone right in front of you blocking your bib number!

If you’re running with friends, use a staggered method to make sure you both get in the picture together. 

Meghan, Sarah and I often run together and we’ve figured out how to time our pictures so we all get seen. 

Tip 8: Make eye contact with the PhotoPass photographers.

Smile and look directly at the camera. It pays off! 

Tip 9: Jump shots. In general, to get a great jump shot, timing is everything. If possible, have the photographer shoot from below; it gives you more air. Which when you are on the course will happen naturally. 

But what about off course or after the race? Get a friend to go low for that perfect jump shot!

And hold the button down and take a zillion pictures. You can also have a 10-15 second video of you jumping, and then pull a still frame from the video. All of these methods work to find a good one of you in the air celebrating your run.

Tip 10: Edit your pictures afterward. Yes, even the PhotoPass ones!

Every single picture will look better, brighter, more focused and more vibrant if you take a few extra steps to edit before you post. 

Need tips on how to do that? I got you covered. 

And no, the tips are NOT coming from me but from a real, live photographer and expert. 

But really: editing your pictures can make a world of difference and learning how to do that from a photo guru is so worth it! 

Flash Giveaway: Picture Play e-Book by Jill Krause

Jill Krause (you may know her as Baby Rabies from back in the day) is a fantastic photographer who knows her stuff. 

And she is sharing all her tips and tricks to photo editing with a focus on mobile editing through her e-book, Picture Play. 

I’m giving away a FREE copy of this e-Book to a lucky reader this week. 

To enter is simple: comment on this blog post. That’s it! You’re already here, so just leave a comment about your favorite runDisney, Walt Disney World or Disneyland photo- or add your own tip for great race pics! 

If you want an additional entry, share the post on Facebook and make sure you tag me so I know you did. Simple, right?

The giveaway will run from August 10, 2019, at noon until August 17, 2019, at noon ET. 

Winner will be notified by email if they won through a blog entry and via Facebook if their bonus share is the winning entry. 

Picture Play Disney World *Giveaway*

But wait- there’s more!

Jill is launching a NEW Picture Play book that you guys definitely want in on.

It’s all about photographing and editing your Walt Disney World vacation pictures- just using your phone and free or dirt cheap editing apps. 

You can pre-order her book here for $12 and expect digital delivery on August 28. 

ORRRRR… you can enter to win a copy of this book as well. Because why not?

To enter is simple: comment on this blog post. Sound familiar? It should- it’s the same rules as stated above. But to be clear, there are 2 contests going on here.

One for the original Picture Play and one for the Picture Play Disney World ebook.

You’re already here, so just leave a comment about your favorite runDisney, Walt Disney World or Disneyland photo- or add your own tip for great race pics. And to win the new Disney World book, please make sure your comment indicates that’s your preference. (Otherwise, I’ll let the first winner choose which book they prefer.)

If you want an additional entry, share the post on Facebook and make sure you tag me so I know you did. Simple, right?

The giveaway will run from August 10, 2019, at noon until August 17, 2019, at noon ET. 

Winner will be notified by email if they won through a blog entry and via Facebook if their bonus share is the winning entry. 

Video on runDisney Picture Tips