Disney has expanded the testing of automated cameras at select meets and greets at Walt Disney World. Previously, the technology had only been spotted at Tinker Bell’s meet and greet at the Magic Kingdom. Now, similar devices have been spotted at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Kylo Ren and Chewbacca meet and greets.
To date, Disney is still testing the devices and hasn’t officially made the complete switch to the automated cameras.
Blog Mickey states that the cameras within the automated system were Nikons with a 35mm lens. Their photo shows that the contraptions are themed well to the area, but so far we haven’t seen any test photos taken by the system.
The automated cameras, which many believe are a cross between advancing technology and a cost-cutting measure with staffing, have had fairly underwhelming early reviews at Tinker Bell’s meet and greet in the Magic Kingdom. The test photos we have seen were from a wide angle and didn’t deliver on capturing the more intimate, specific moments that could be shot by a photographer who can move around and zoom in on the interaction.
We welcome advances in technology and streamlined offerings from Disney, but the change has to improve the overall guest experience.