Photo Credits: Krista

“Every child is born blessed with a vivid imagination. But just as a muscle grows flabby with disuse, so the bright imagination of a child pales in later years if he ceases to exercise it.” – Walt Disney

Are you looking for a fun way to add some whimsy and personality to your travel photos? Here’s an idea that I’ve used several times that you may enjoy trying for yourself. With the prevalence of social media options for photo sharing, this memory making tip is an easy way to add some pizazz to your photographs.

Here are some examples of “mascot selfies” I’ve taken through the years:

Lars the Traveling Gnomad

Lars is a traveling Gnomad, originally from Minnesota, who has traveled the world (literally). In addition to trips to WDW and DLR, Lars has visited Europe twice. Photo Credits: Krista

Lars showing his Disney side in 2005 during Disneyland’s 50th Golden Birthday. Photo Credits: Krista

Pal Mickey

Pal Mickey has visited Walt Disney World and Disneyland. He has different outfits that match the park he is visiting. Photo Credits: Krista

Monkey

Our grandson had a stuffed Monkey that he insisted come with us on a trip to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure in 2010. Photo Credits: Krista

Olaf

Olaf visited Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. Photo Credits: Krista

Twinkie Minions

Summer 2015: Minions Instagram contest for a trip to Paris. Photo Credits: Krista

Now it’s your turn. Here’s how:

Step 1: Choose a “mascot” to bring along with you on your travels. Something small and portable is best, like a figurine or a stuffed animal. The mascot could also be your child’s favorite stuffed animal.

Step 2: If you’re visiting a Disney theme park, consider adding Mickey ears to your mascot.

Step 3: Snap pictures of your mascot in a variety of places around town or in the theme parks. Think of it like mascot selfies. Try to think of creative places to pose your mascot.

Step 4: Include pictures of your mascot with yourself a couple of times (or your child if it’s his/her favorite toy/stuffed animal).

Step 5: Share your favorite mascot selfie pictures on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc. Add captions using your mascot’s voice and perspective. Be sure to include appropriate hashtags and give shout outs to the places you’re visiting.

After you’re home from your travels, consider using these mascot selfie pictures to create a keepsake souvenir. Here are some ideas:

• The pictures can be turned into a small photo book using one of the many digital photo companies like Shutterfly. Our mascot Monkey is the star of his own 8×8 photo book: Monkey’s Day at Disneyland in 2010.
• Select your favorite pictures and make a wall collage to decorate your home.
• Turn your pictures into a “Where’s the Mascot?” type game for a party like a themed bridal shower or themed wedding. Our Pal Mickey was the star of a game at our Disneyland wedding in 2007.

You never know when your mascot selfie skills may help you win a contest (example: #twinkieminionsweeps).

One final idea is to build a social media following for your mascot. Some creative people have taken this “mascot selfie” posting to the extreme with specialized Instagram pages/accounts for their mascots (Check out: @sadness_at_disneyland or @bing_bong_at_disney for some examples). Not only are the pictures fun, but the captions are cleverly written from the mascot’s point of view.

Bringing along a mascot is a whimsical way to enhance your travel photography and to keep your imagination strong. Stay creative. Be young at heart. Now, go add some whimsy to your pictures!

“That’s the real trouble with the world, too many people grow up.” – Walt Disney

Question: Have you ever taken a mascot along with you on your travels? What mascot will go with you on your next trip?

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”