Tours Departing Daily - Disney Blog

Early Morning at the Ranch

2012-02-11T20:30:00.001-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Early Morning at the Ranch

Spending some time at Rancho del Zocalo early in the morning is a beautiful thing. The restaurant is closed and there are very few people around. For me, it is the perfect spot to start the day. This morning I was able to grab a shot of the incredible stained glass door that serves as the entrance to this beautiful restaurant. This is just one of the many amazing details this restaurant has to offer and it is easily one of my favorites. If you're lucky, you may even be greeted by a friendly cast member who whistles while he works.

Photo by Michaela Hansen

Top of the Thunder

2012-02-10T23:29:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Top of the Thunder

Yee Haw! On a brisk winter morning the three of us headed into Disneyland with high hopes of capturing some new morning images. As we headed into Frontierland the atmosphere reminded me of those nice winter mornings waking up in the desert. Well, if you don't know what I mean, you just have to experience it for yourself. There is just something special about early mornings in the middle of nowhere. Then again, mornings are special to me anyways seeing as how I almost never wake up early enough to experience them! So, for once, I'd like to say, top of the morning to yah!

Photo by Kevin Crone

Checking Out the New Disneyana

2012-02-08T23:48:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Checking Out the New Disneyana

The Main Street shop, Disneyana, recently reopened after a period of renovations. You never really know quite what to expect when you see the "Pardon our pixie dust" signs go up. Sometimes the changes are difficult to notice, if any were made at all. Sometimes it's just a good cleaning and a new layer of paint. Other times you enter the area you once knew to find a strange new world, full of curious, fresh details. I am completely in love with the revamp of Disneyana, which falls into the last category. Shopping-wise it is much cleaner and more focused. Design-wise I think I could spend a whole day in this shop, just gawking at the general splendor. Now I'm even more excited for what's to come across the street!

Photo by Matthew Hansen

Mickey's Sunny Day at the Beach

2012-02-08T00:03:00.001-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Mickey's Sunny Day at the Beach

This has become one of my favorite spots inside Disney California Adventure. It is the culmination of all the boardwalk attractions that surrounds this spot that probably gets me the most, and the fact that it is in itself pretty secluded from the main midway. Oh, and that amazing long beach grass really is the icing on the cake isn't it? You may be wondering why this picture looks so familiar. Well, it's because I have taken it before! It is very reminiscent of Mickey's Gloomy Day at the Beach. The sun opened up a few weeks back, and I couldn't resist to head to my favorite spot. A little cliché yes, but sometimes in photography you have to wrestle in the mud with cliché for a while until you really get what you want out of it. And then after a few rounds, cliché taps out and you find yourself to be a little more refined, a little more resilient, and to have progressed far more than you had ever thought. Take that cliché!

Photo by Kevin Crone

The Beginning of a Story

2012-02-06T19:04:00.001-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - The Beginning of a Story

This is the model for the new "Storytellers" statue that will be placed in DCA for the opening of Buena Vista Street. It represents the start of Walt's story as he arrived in California. It serves as a reminder of where he began and how far he traveled in pursuit of his dream. I think beginnings are all too often overlooked. We see the success someone has acquired, but fail to realize the handwork, sweat and tears that went into making their dream a reality. Walt is the perfect example of that. In spite of facing financial ruin and creative infringement, he didn't give up. That to me is even more important than the success that followed. To have that much passion and tenacity for life is to truly live.

Photo by Michaela Hansen

The Secret Passage to Frontierland

2012-02-05T20:08:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - The Secret Passage to Frontierland

There's nothing quite like surrounding yourself with wood. Sometimes that's exactly what a man needs. This passage between the Plaza Gardens and Rancho del Zocalo is a quiet transition into Frontierland. At night, with the beautiful lights of the restaurante glowing at the end, it's pure magic.

Photo by Matthew Hansen

Waiting for Terror

2012-02-03T22:29:00.001-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Waiting for Terror

I imagine if I had a workbench it would look something like this. I wish. I'm starting to grow an affinity for classic antiquities. I don't know what it is. Maybe it's my fascination with the past, and the era's of history that have faded away. It's meticulous queues like this that leave me in a daze holding the line back a good thirty feet. Yeah, you know what I'm talking about. That one guy that doesn't move because he isn't paying any attention at all to the people in front of him. Well, it's nice to meet you, I'm that guy. I'll be holding the line up and not moving the thirty feet because I'm going to enjoy the dedication and research that was put into the experience of this queue. It's not always about the destination, but the journey that gets you there. It's true. Plus, thirty feet isn't going to get anyone any closer on to The Tower of Terror. I promise. Okay, goodnight all, my rant is finished.

Photo by Kevin Crone

The Sunset and the Sea

2012-02-02T19:08:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - The Sunset and the Sea

Growing up in Northern California, I am a big fan of anything that takes me back there. While no imitation is quite as sweet as being in San Francisco, it's easy to get sucked into the Pacific Wharf. Every detail has its purpose to make it resemble the real thing. I really appreciate the thoughtfulness of the Imagineers and the craftsmanship of the crews that put the parks together. When you stop and think on it for a moment, it's not a stretch to realize that where you are, what you are seeing and what you are standing on are all works of art contributing to a greater, immersive piece.

Photo by Michaela Hansen

What Wonders Await

2012-02-01T20:34:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - What Wonders Await

Already I am excited for what wonders await you at the Temple of the Forbidden Eye. That is, of course, if you avoid looking into the eyes of Mara, which never really seems to work out too well. Foolish mortals we may be but the real treasure of this temple is the adventure. From the journey through the queue to the jeep ride that at times gets a little...bumpy, the epic Indiana Jones score is your soundtrack. All you need now is a stylish hat and a sturdy whip. But why did it have to be snakes?

Photo by Matthew Hansen

Finding Copycats in the Lagoon

2012-01-31T23:39:00.001-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Finding Copycats in the Lagoon

A few days ago, Matthew, Michaela, and I were watching the Finding Nemo Submarines as they peacefully navigated the lagoon. Everything seemed normal until Matt spotted something very interesting. In addition to the Seagulls screaming, "Mine, Mine, Mine" there were a few ducks sitting on the buoy trying to mimic this very same thing. We couldn't make out any legitimate noises, but they sure had the same mechanics down with their beaks. It was truly an interesting sight to see. I am still convinced that Disneyland Ducks are a species of their own.

Photo by Kevin Crone

Coming Down the Track

2012-01-30T19:23:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Coming Down the Track

We've always loved the Disneyland Railroad but that love and appreciation grew tremendously as we made our DLRR short film. It was so exciting to see The Disney Gallery open its doors to feature the trains of Disney and every bit deserved. Wandering through the Gallery, as we often do, there are so many gorgeous works of art to take in and so many relics of the rich history of Walt Disney's love of trains and their centrality to Disney Parks. This model train is just one piece of that tribute.

Photo by Michaela Hansen

Behind the Shot - California Gold

2012-01-28T20:26:00.000-08:00

Behind the Shot - California Gold

Welcome to our first episode in a new series we are starting called "Behind the Shot". Our goal with these videos is to share a behind the scenes look at how we capture the images we post here and what's going through our minds during the process. This Behind the Shot features Matt photographing one of his favorite spots in Disney California Adventure. We hope you enjoy this deeper look into what makes a tour guide tick.

Photo by Matthew Hansen

Adventuring the Temple

2012-01-27T23:40:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Adventuring the Temple

As soon as I enter The Temple of the Forbidden Eye I cannot help myself from thinking about a certain 80's movie involving a small Asian boy with quick wit, and an awesome accent. No, I am not talking about Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. I am talking about The Goonies, my favorite movie of all time. Yeah, I know what your thinking. But, it is. I grew up watching the Goonies, and every time we go creeping down into the depths of this temple it seems to always come back to me. You know, I've always wanted to go on an adventure for buried treasure. I just don't think I could do it without Data.

Photo by Kevin Crone

A Cloudy Day at the Pier

2012-01-26T19:47:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - A Cloudy Day at the Pier

Cloudy days at the Disneyland Resort are always exciting. We usually find ourselves rushing around from place to place trying to find new angles that take advantage of it. This shot was one of the many we took that day with our new wide angle lens. I really loved the lines leading from the pier to the Golden Zephyr and the wide angle gave me just the right amount of room to fit it all. Ahh, the joys of a new toy.

Photo by Michaela Hansen

An Afternoon in Paradise

2012-01-25T21:58:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - An Afternoon in Paradise

Winter just can't seem to make up its mind here in Southern California. A cold, wet weekend has turned into a midweek bordering on hot. It's alright though because we know how to have some fun in the sun and Paradise Pier perfectly embodies that spirit. This area is one of my favorites with a small world of colorful flowers soaking in the warmth.

Photo by Matthew Hansen

Walt Disney Has Gone Hollywood

2012-01-24T21:18:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Walt Disney Has Gone Hollywood

Hollywood is a place where movies are made and dreams are chased. When Walt Disney came to California he felt that it was too late to get into animation and was intimidated by the larger production companies that were already so commonplace. Could you believe it if Walt Disney never persisted? If he never pushed for his dream? I honestly can't. Walt Disney wasn't the only one. There have been many corporation's that fell into their niche after it had already been established. Apple was late in the mp3 player market, Facebook wasn't the first in the social networking boom, and Google wasn't the first search engine website. If you have an idea, it must come from some place right? It must be some culmination of creativity and thought processes that wants to manifest itself in a physical form. So why should we say no just because someone else has already done it? We shouldn't. Follow your heart, follow your dreams. Amazing, big, crazy things can happen.

Photo by Kevin Crone

Welcome to the Hollywood Tower Hotel

2012-01-23T20:40:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Welcome to the Hollywood Tower Hotel

After a short hiatus, we finally made it back to the park this last Saturday. I think the boys would agree with me when I say it was by far one of our best trips yet. The morning started off with a little rain, but shortly after we arrived, the rain cleared and the sun made it's way through the clouds. It created a beautiful backdrop for just about every picture we took. We began our day at DCA with a glimpse of Cars Land, which looks even better than I imagined it would, and quickly headed to the pier for some shooting. It was mid-afternoon when we finally made our way over to Disneyland. What really made our day was the opportunity we had to meet some new people and catch up with some of our good friends that work in the park. The more we do this, the greater our appreciation for this amazing place and the incredible people behind it grows. They do so much to make you feel welcome and a part of something special. The one thing that I continue to take away from our experiences, are the conversations we have with people we would have never met outside of this common interest. I feel overwhelming blessed and am continually grateful. I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Photo by Michaela Hansen

Sunset Over Condor Flats

2012-01-22T21:06:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Sunset Over Condor Flats

The sun dipping behind the Soarin' structure is a really cinematic moment that almost feels like it should included in the ride itself. It's easy to forget that you're at Disneyland and start dreaming of flying into that sunset on your very own adventure. Just watch for passersby. They don't take too kindly to being run into, even if you're humming an epic theme song.

Photo by Matthew Hansen

Tour Guide Equipment

2012-01-21T07:24:00.000-08:00

Daily Tour - Tour Guide Equipment

Over the past year and a half we've acquired a few little toys that we'd like to take the time to share with you. Some of you have shown an interest in photography, and have had several questions about the gear we use. In this video, we'll be giving an overview of our cameras and the equipment used in getting the shots you see here at Tours Departing Daily.

Baggage Check

2012-01-20T23:25:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Baggage Check

I remember vividly riding Star Tours as a kid, and being blown away. Then again, at the age of five, it's probably very easy to be amused. But isn't that Disney's job? To amuse five year olds and their families? Or maybe it's Disney's job to make the five year olds believe they are getting ready to be shippped off into outer space on a tour to a galaxy far far away. That's exactly what I thought the first time I entered the queue for Star Tours.

Photo by Kevin Crone

Reflections of Tomorrow

2012-01-19T12:04:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Reflections of Tomorrow

To be completely honest, Tomorrowland is my least favorite land in Disneyland. Space Mountain is my favorite ride in the area and a lot of the time is the only ride I go on. That being said, it is one of my favorite lands at night. The futuristic theme seems most fitting with all the amazing colorful neon lights flashing and reflecting off of every metallic surface. It makes one feel as though they have truly stepped into a world of tomorrow. Not to mention, it makes for some really interesting photos.

Photo by Michaela Hansen

The Lady Orleans

2012-01-18T20:08:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - The Lady Orleans

This amazing statue resembling a figurehead can be found in the Pieces of Eight shop in New Orleans Square. She really reminds me of some of the Haunted Mansion characters and captures the essence of New Orleans Square for me. I love the weathered look and the textures surrounding her. Coupled with the lighting it creates a very moody scene and I quickly found myself entranced.

Photo by Matthew Hansen

STOP SOPA

2012-01-18T06:59:00.000-08:00

Today we are joining in the SOPA Strike in opposition to the SOPA & PIPA legislation in congress. A free society relies upon its peoples' right to freely express themselves and freely access information. Piracy is bad. Copyright infringement is bad. Internet censorship is worse.

To learn more and to find out what you can do, watch the video below and visit AmericanCensorship.org -

Tell Congress not to censor the internet NOW! - http://www.fightforthefuture.org/pipa

PROTECT-IP is a bill that has been introduced in the Senate and the House and is moving quickly through Congress. It gives the government and corporations the ability to censor the net, in the name of protecting "creativity". The law would let the government or corporations censor entire sites-- they just have to convince a judge that the site is "dedicated to copyright infringement."

The government has already wrongly shut down sites without any recourse to the site owner. Under this bill, sharing a video with anything copyrighted in it, or what sites like Youtube and Twitter do, would be considered illegal behavior according to this bill.

According to the Congressional Budget Office, this bill would cost us $47 million tax dollars a year — that's for a fix that won't work, disrupts the internet, stifles innovation, shuts out diverse voices, and censors the internet. This bill is bad for creativity and does not protect your rights.

A Changing Atmosphere

2012-01-17T16:21:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - A Changing Atmosphere

The changes that have taken place at Disney California Adventure have been phenomenal. There is a unique atmosphere that exists now that wasn't present before. I get excited just thinking about it. And to think, the few changes that have been made are a small portion of what is to come. As Mickey Mouse would say, "Oh boy." We are definitely in for an amazing journey.

The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Undersea Adventure has been the first of the many changes to hit Disney California Adventure. The ride brings back several memories I've had growing up as a kid in the 90's watching Disney movies. The juxtaposition of Paradise Bay, and Ariel's Undersea Adventure create such a unique seaside atmosphere. I feel like, Paradise Pier is finally coming alive. The lands are beginning to blend quite wonderfully, and Ariel's Undersea Adventure, I believe, is the pinnacle achievement that has made this possible. The area is now rich with environment, and also serves as a great midway to entice people to move down and around the bay to experience the new eatery's and attractions that also have recently made their debut. What else can I say except, I love it.

Photo by Kevin Crone

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

2012-01-16T19:39:00.000-08:00

Daily Photo Tour - Dumbo the Flying Elephant

It's not everyday that you get to ride a flying elephant. It's one of those experiences that makes a Disney day so unique. I think everyone remembers their first ride on Dumbo and their first magic feather. It's one of those childhood memories that sticks with you until the day comes when you get to pass that cherished moment on to the next generation of dreamers.

Photo by Michaela Hansen