Mele Kalikimaka WDW Adventure 2015-COMPLETED

[juneaubiscuits]

This is hands down the best photo trip report I have read. Your pictures are so beautiful, they almost don't look real. I hope to see another report from you soon!

Mahalo for the kind words! @DVCKelsie I'll be heading to Disneyland next month and hope to have a trip report up by August, so please keep on the lookout for it!

These photos of Hogsmeade have never made me want to visit Disney and Universal more. Would you consider sharing some of the settings on your camera that you used for these shots?

Absolutely! Are there any particular photos you're wondering about? Also @DVCKelsie , if you click any image, it will take you to that same photo on my Flickr page. If you scroll down, there should be all the camera settings on the bottom right side. If you need more info, or cannot see it, private message me!

I love how many photos you captured the cast members. They all look great in their costumes!

I loved those Victorian era costumes too...the colors were fantastic!

Thanks for capturing all the different rooms in the restaurant. This place looks unreal and I love all the details you squeezed into the photos!

@DVCKelsie You definitely need to go there for lunch and/or dinner. The food is pretty good, but it's the staging and lighting that will make it memorable!

 

[DVCKelsie]

Mahalo for the kind words! @DVCKelsie I'll be heading to Disneyland next month and hope to have a trip report up by August, so please keep on the lookout for it!

I definitely will!

Absolutely! Are there any particular photos you're wondering about? Also @DVCKelsie , if you click any image, it will take you that same photo on my Flickr page. If you scroll down, there should be all the camera settings on the bottom right side. If you need more info, or cannot see it, private message me!

Awesome! Thanks

 

[iheartbelle87]

We flew out Thanksgiving Day, so traffic was pretty light. Although my wife Sue and I were excited, we were also a little sad to leave our two girls back home. Their names are Lohelani (Border Collie/Husky) and Juneau (Husky/Malamute). They were left in good hands with a great dog sitter, but seeing their sad faces as we pulled out of the garage is always gut wrenching.

Juneau & Lohe (No Leashes) by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

Your girls are beautiful! We're a husky loving family and have an Alaskan Klee Kai!

 

[juneaubiscuits]

Your girls are beautiful! We're a husky loving family and have an Alaskan Klee Kai!

Mahalo...those girls are the apples of our eyes! I wasn't too familiar with the Klee Kai, so I did a google and they're a gorgeous breed! I had a spitz prior to our huskies, so a Klee Kai would fit right in!

 

[Ritchielace]

Just finished reading your whole trip in one sitting. Your photographs are amazing. We just honeymooned on the Big Island 2 summers ago and I am now dying to go back after looking at your pictures. Your truely captured the wild beauty there. DWD were amazing as well with all those night time shots. Keep posting!

 

[juneaubiscuits]

Just finished reading your whole trip in one sitting. Your photographs are amazing. We just honeymooned on the Big Island 2 summers ago and I am now dying to go back after looking at your pictures. Your truely captured the wild beauty there. DWD were amazing as well with all those night time shots. Keep posting!

Mahalo @Ritchielace for your kind words! It's wonderful you were able to honeymoon on the Big Island! I've been going there several times a year since 1987, so it's second home to me (literally, since we bought a home there in 2012). I just found your trip report and will delve into it tonight. From a quick glance, your photos are pretty amazing too! I should have my Disneyland TR sometime in late August/early September, so hope you stop in....

 

[txdisneymama]

WOW!! I am blown away by your photos. I read that you have the Tokina 11-16 lens for your Nikon ... I can see how this would be a great investment for landscape photography. What lens are did you use for your "portraits" of the CMs? Also, what do you use for your processing? Photoshop? Lightroom? Your photos are really incredible works of art!!! I would love any advice you have to offer. I am a hobby portrait photographer who is always looking to grow!

 

[juneaubiscuits]

WOW!! I am blown away by your photos. I read that you have the Tokina 11-16 lens for your Nikon ... I can see how this would be a great investment for landscape photography. What lens are did you use for your "portraits" of the CMs? Also, what do you use for your processing? Photoshop? Lightroom? Your photos are really incredible works of art!!! I would love any advice you have to offer. I am a hobby portrait photographer who is always looking to grow!

Thank you @txdisneymama... I really appreciate it! I did have the Tokina 11-16 for less than a month...LOL! I ended up selling it after upgrading to a full frame camera (that lens is only applicable for crop sensors). Nonetheless, it's a highly regarded lens, and you're right, it's one the best for landscapes. I used a Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 for the WDW trip. For the portraits shots, I would say 95% were done using a Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 lens. I use both Lightroom and Photoshop for post-processing. For blemish removals, taming of "shiny" skin, and eye color adjustments, it's PS all the way. Lightroom is great for photos that require minimal adjustments. If you haven't got it already, I highly recommend the Nik software bundle available for FREE from Google. I paid $149.00 for my software and still don't regret it (they have a nice soft focus application for portraiture).

I'm an amateur too, so I'm learning by trial and fire...LOL! The most important thing I learned with portraits is to use a flash....especially in bright sunlight. It's counterintuitive so most casual photo takers don't think about it. It will eliminate most of the harsh shadows and "faces in the dark" we encounter when shooting outdoors. The second is make sure you're shooting in raw (you probably already know this, so I apologize for any redundancy)! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask or send me a message!

 

[mommaleatherwont]

I never comment on trip reports but I loved this one so much that I have to. I just binge read this from start to finish over two nights (who needs sleep right? You can sleep when you're dead lol.). This was by far my favorite trip report that I've ever read! We book our next WDW/Uni trip next week and this has me even more excited!

I love that you took pictures of the cast members. I come from a long line of cast members so these pictures got me a bit emotional I must say. The third generation in my family just started work two weeks ago so seeing the pictures really touched my heart .

I also especially enjoyed your Wildnerness Lodge photos. Just stunning! My aunt spent the last half of her Disney career as a concierge at WL so I have many fond memories of visiting aunt Trish at the lodge.

Anyway, I'll stop yammering on but seriously, amazing report and photos. Thanks for sharing them.

 

[juneaubiscuits]

I never comment on trip reports but I loved this one so much that I have to. I just binge read this from start to finish over two nights (who needs sleep right? You can sleep when you're dead lol.). This was by far my favorite trip report that I've ever read! We book our next WDW/Uni trip next week and this has me even more excited!

I love that you took pictures of the cast members. I come from a long line of cast members so these pictures got me a bit emotional I must say. The third generation in my family just started work two weeks ago so seeing the pictures really touched my heart .

I also especially enjoyed your Wildnerness Lodge photos. Just stunning! My aunt spent the last half of her Disney career as a concierge at WL so I have many fond memories of visiting aunt Trish at the lodge.

Anyway, I'll stop yammering on but seriously, amazing report and photos. Thanks for sharing them.

Mahalo @mommaleatherwont for your kind words! I'm glad you enjoyed the TR and so happy for you (and a little envious) that you'll be heading to the parks in the near future. I have a deep respect for the work that cast members do at the parks...I'm sure it's not an easy job. That is so cool that it's something that is being passed down through your family!

The Wilderness Lodge is my #1 favorite hotel of all the Disney resorts (even though Animal Kingdom Lodge is a close second)!

Be sure to check out my ongoing Disneyland TR is you have the time or interest...Aloha!

 

[dmea10]

I know I am pretty late in reading your report. I came across your report and read the entire thing!
I am at work and it is slow. I almost did not want to go on my dinner break before I finished your report. Your pictures are amazing. I have never seen such beautiful pictures of Disney World.

 

[juneaubiscuits]

I know I am pretty late in reading your report. I came across your report and read the entire thing!
I am at work and it is slow. I almost did not want to go on my dinner break before I finished your report. Your pictures are amazing. I have never seen such beautiful pictures of Disney World.

Thank you @dmea10! I'm glad you enjoyed the report to almost miss you're dinner (for me, food would win out...LOL)! Be sure to follow my Disneyland report if you get a chance!

 

[Cotillard]

Oh. My God. I have NEVER seen such incredible photographs. You are truly gifted beyond words. I'm speechless.



I look forward to following your every post!

 

[Hawaii2Dis]

From Norway, it was a hop, skip, and a jump to Germany. I love this pavilion which I think has the best looking courtyard ever. The colors and architectural design never fails to catch my eye.

Epcot's German Pavillion 01 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

Epcot's German Pavillion 02 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

The Faces of EPCOT-Vanessa of Germany by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

Karamell-Kuche @ Epcot's Germany Pavillion 01 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

It was off to Japan in the late afternoon for dinner at Tokyo Dining. I had never eaten at this pavilion on my two prior trips just because I can get a great Japanese meal right in my own backyard. However Kelly and Colleen had good things to say about this restaurant, so we chose it for our Candlelight Processional dinner package. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised how good the food tasted. I apologize for the smart phone pictures of food, but my mind (and stomach) seem to shift into automatic 'grind" mode once the entrees arrive. Sue always has to remind me to take some pics of the meals, and wanting to get it out of the way, I default to the ease of my Samsung Galaxy Note! I ordered the steak combo with shrimp tempura while my wife went with steak and sushi. I'm getting hunger pangs just typing this...

Sue & Len @ Epcot's Japan Pavillion 02 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

Dinner @ Epcot's Tokyo Dining 01 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

Dinner @ Epcot's Tokyo Dining 03 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

After a sumptuous dinner, we had about an hour and a half before the start of the Candlelight Processional. We were told by our server to get there 45 minutes before the start of the show to ensure a good seat. I decided to check it out earlier while the others were having dessert. I saw this massively long line that was already passed Morocco and some guests in line confirmed it was for the show. I had wrongly assumed there was a separate line/entrance for dinner package guests so I didn't jump into that human chain link. By the time the others joined me, I was told the line was indeed for both regular viewers and dinner package guests. It seems the only thing the dining option guarantees is a seat in the auditorium. It could be the a chair out in Timbucktoo, but Disney would still considers its obligation fulfilled. Basically, you're better off eating early and getting in line 2-3 hours prior to showtime. That pretty much threw me off my game as I realized we weren't going to get a prime viewing area. By the time we got in, we were forced to sit at the far right of the stage behind a pillar. Of all the dining packages, and we did a bunch, this was the one major disappointment and a complete bust.

Neil Patrick Harris was the host and he did an excellent job. The choir was outstanding and props goes to the stage lighting and overall presentation. I tried to get some decent shots, but the angle and blocked views made it tough. I'm sure I would have enjoyed the show more if not for that whole dining fiasco, but as it is, I probably wouldn't do Candlelight again.

Candlelight Processional with host Neil Patrick Harris 03 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

Candlelight Processional with host Neil Patrick Harris 05 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

Candlelight Processional with host Neil Patrick Harris 04 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

Candlelight Processional w: host Neil Patrick Harris 01 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

Candlelight Processional w: host Neil Patrick Harris 02 by Juneau Biscuits, on Flickr

My boyfriend & I went to WDW in June 2016 & ate at Teppan Edo for dinner AND WE LOVED IT.... We went all the way to Orlando to try Teppanyaki when we could get it at home at Kobe or Tanaka of Tokyo.... so I understand the feeling of not really wanting to try food in the Japan pavilion. We loved it so much we dropped our lunch reservation at Beaches and Cream to go again! I love reading your trip report! Kaleo and I are looking at doing a trip in 5/6 years hopefully in time for the 50th Celebration of the Magic Kingdom, and also thinking of resort hopping at least twice just to see more then one resort. I just love seeing other Hawaiʻi people enjoying WDW as much as I do! I just wish Orlando wasnʻt so far! So happy you had so much fun! Aloha ~ From Maui!

 

[DaisyNY]

Just finished your report...amazing photos with amazing details! Can't wait to plan our next visit...we were there for the last Osbourne lights as well. My camera was not as good but we lucked out because of earlier rain and enjoyed relatively empty streets! Stayed until they kicked us out as well... Great trip report! Thanks for sharing!

 

[juneaubiscuits]

My boyfriend & I went to WDW in June 2016 & ate at Teppan Edo for dinner AND WE LOVED IT.... We went all the way to Orlando to try Teppanyaki when we could get it at home at Kobe or Tanaka of Tokyo.... so I understand the feeling of not really wanting to try food in the Japan pavilion. We loved it so much we dropped our lunch reservation at Beaches and Cream to go again! I love reading your trip report! Kaleo and I are looking at doing a trip in 5/6 years hopefully in time for the 50th Celebration of the Magic Kingdom, and also thinking of resort hopping at least twice just to see more then one resort. I just love seeing other Hawaiʻi people enjoying WDW as much as I do! I just wish Orlando wasnʻt so far! So happy you had so much fun! Aloha ~ From Maui!

You made a smart move cancelling Beaches & Cream for another go at Teppan Edo. As you've probably read, my wife and I were totally unimpressed with B & C. While the decor and theming were cute, the food and shakes left a lot to be desired. It would be awesome if you and Kaleo can get back to WDW for MK's 50th celebration! I'm hoping to get one more crack at photographing Epcot and AK (especially with the debut of Rivers of Life) in a few years. I am planning on a trip to Tokyo Disney in early November, so that will have to tide me over for now.

I agree, I love seeing other locals here on the Disney boards! Have a great week and aloha to you too!

 

[juneaubiscuits]

Just finished your report...amazing photos with amazing details! Can't wait to plan our next visit...we were there for the last Osbourne lights as well. My camera was not as good but we lucked out because of earlier rain and enjoyed relatively empty streets! Stayed until they kicked us out as well... Great trip report! Thanks for sharing!

Glad you enjoyed the TR Daisy! You definitely lucked out with the Osbourne light show. I wished we could have closed it out too, but it was just so darn crowded...LOL!

 

[Hawaii2Dis]

You made a smart move cancelling Beaches & Cream for another go at Teppan Edo. As you've probably read, my wife and I were totally unimpressed with B & C. While the decor and theming were cute, the food and shakes left a lot to be desired. It would be awesome if you and Kaleo can get back to WDW for MK's 50th celebration! I'm hoping to get one more crack at photographing Epcot and AK (especially with the debut of Rivers of Life) in a few years. I am planning on a trip to Tokyo Disney in early November, so that will have to tide me over for now.

I agree, I love seeing other locals here on the Disney boards! Have a great week and aloha to you too!

I loved Tokyo Disney when I was able to go in 2008 with my school! Have fun in November!!