The World of Disney Vlogging
Disney theme parks have always been a magical destination for families and Disney enthusiasts alike. In recent years, however, a new phenomenon has emerged that has changed the landscape of how Disney parks are experienced and documented – Disney vloggers. These content creators film their adventures in the parks, showcasing the rides, attractions, and behind-the-scenes magic, and share it with their online audiences. While Disney vloggers have gained a significant following and can benefit Disney by promoting the parks, there is an argument to be made that Disney could consider banning or limiting vloggers from filming in their parks if their work becomes disruptive and distracting to other guests.
The Rise of Disney Vloggers
Some of the top Disney vloggers have amassed millions of followers and have become celebrities in their own right. Vloggers like The Tim Tracker, DFB Guide, and FreshBaked! produce a wide range of content, including ride reviews, park updates, and insider tips. They often film their experiences in crowded areas of the parks, interacting with characters, and even capturing special events like parades and fireworks shows. Their videos are often monetized, and they may also receive sponsored content or merchandise deals, turning their Disney park visits into commercial enterprises.
The Case for Regulation
One argument for Disney to ban or limit vloggers from filming in their parks is that they could take a position similar to the National Parks Service in the United States, which has banned the use of filming in National Parks if the content is going to be used for commercial purposes. This approach could be justified by the fact that Disney parks are private properties, and filming for commercial gain without proper authorization could be seen as a violation of Disney’s intellectual property rights and their rules and regulations.
Vloggers often use prosumer or higher-end cameras often with detached audio capturing equipment to repeatedly film the same scenes or attractions, that may cause congestion or obstruct the flow of foot traffic, especially for the more notable vloggers that are constantly recognized throughout the park. This can detract from the experience of other guests who have also paid to enjoy the park and may be looking to create their own special memories. Additionally, some vloggers may engage in attention-seeking behaviors, such as staging stunts or pranks, which can be disruptive and potentially unsafe for other guests.
Disney’s Benefit from Vlogging
On the other hand, it’s important to note that Disney also benefits from the content that vloggers create. The videos produced by Disney vloggers serve as free marketing for the parks, showcasing the magic and excitement of Disney experiences and attracting potential visitors. Vloggers often have a loyal and engaged audience who may be influenced by their recommendations and visit the parks themselves. This exposure can result in increased ticket sales, merchandise purchases, and overall revenue for Disney.
A Middle Ground: Licensing System
As such, Disney may not want to ban vloggers outright, but instead, could consider implementing a system where vloggers need to apply for a license to film in the parks. This license could come with a set of rules and guidelines that vloggers must abide by, such as restrictions on filming in certain areas, not disrupting the flow of foot traffic, and obtaining consent from other guests who appear in their videos. Failure to adhere to these rules could result in the issuance of take-down notices or demonetization of content.
Balancing Creativity and Experience
Implementing a licensing system would allow Disney to have better control over the content that is being created in their parks, ensuring that it aligns with their brand and values. It would also give Disney the ability to take action against vloggers who may pose a threat to their business, such as those who create unflattering coverage or engage in inappropriate behavior that could result in complaints from guests.
Your Thoughts
What do you think? Do you think Disney would consider such a move or are vloggers more of a benefit than a nuisance?
