A trip to Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa is filled with those “pinch-me” moments—from the first glimpse of the Ko Olina lagoons to that very first Mickey waffle. But if you’re the designated “family photographer,” you often end up with a camera roll full of everyone else having fun, or a collection of awkward selfies where someone’s forehead is inevitably cut off.

If you want to actually be in the photos this vacation, do yourself a favor: look for the PhotoPass cast members. It is the absolute easiest way to capture the magic without the selfie struggle.

Here is how to make the most of the service during your island getaway:

  1. The Character Breakfast Strategy
    Don’t worry about fumbling with your phone or wiping syrup off your screen at the Makahiki breakfast. Professional photographers are stationed there to catch those “first-thing-in-the-morning” smiles with Mickey and the gang. You can focus on your Kona coffee while they handle the lighting.
  2. Luau Ready (Arrive Early!)
    If you’re attending KA WA’A – A Luau, here is a pro tip: show up early! Photographers are stationed to take family portraits before the festivities begin. It is the perfect opportunity to document those coordinated island outfits before the sun goes down. Plus, the package often includes great professional shots from the performance itself.
  3. Use the “CHIP” Hotline
    This is one of Aulani’s best-kept secrets. From your room phone, dial ext. 2447 (which spells out CHIP). This dedicated character hotline tells you exactly where the photographers and characters will be stationed each day. It’s the ultimate tool for planning your morning around those iconic meet-and-greets.
  4. Golden Hour at the Shoreline
    While the resort architecture is stunning, the best scenic PhotoPass shots happen near the beach path right before sunset. That “Golden Hour” lighting hitting the Pacific is unmatched—don’t miss the chance to get a professional family shot with the ocean as your backdrop.

Tips for a Seamless Experience
Link Immediately: As soon as you get your first PhotoPass card, link it to the Aulani app. You can preview your shots in real-time while lounging by the infinity pool (it’s a great way to pass the time while the kids are on the slides!).

Know the Package: Aulani uses its own PhotoPass+ package. It is separate from the mainland Disney parks (Disneyland or Disney World), so make sure you look into the Aulani-specific options to get the best value for your stay.

The best souvenir you can bring home from O’ahu isn’t a trinket—it’s a photo where the whole family is present, smiling, and stress-free. By letting the pros handle the shutter, you get to stay in the moment and enjoy the aloha spirit.