This summer, WDWNT’s Learn the WEDway event series gives guests a rare opportunity to discover and learn directly from a former Walt Disney Imagineer. Join Jerry Schneider, former Walt Disney Imagineering photographer, for an immersive two-day masterclass exploring the art of photography through the unique perspective of Disney storytelling.
Join us on Friday, August 7, and Saturday, August 8, 2026, for this special event.
What is Learn the WEDway?
Learn the WEDway is a series of exclusive educational experiences hosted by WDWNT and taught by former Disney Imagineers. Each masterclass is designed to provide attendees with in-depth knowledge, practical skills, and behind-the-scenes insights into the creative disciplines that shape Disney parks and attractions around the world.
Unlike traditional seminars, Learn the WEDway combines classroom instruction, hands-on learning, and direct interaction with industry professionals who helped create some of the most beloved theme park experiences ever built.
Meet Your Instructor: Jerry Schneider
Jerry Schneider brings more than 45 years of experience in photography and digital imaging to this unique masterclass.
During his 18-year tenure with Walt Disney Imagineering, Schneider contributed to projects at EPCOT, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and numerous attraction imaging initiatives. His career also includes work with The J. Paul Getty Museum and Eastman Kodak, as well as nearly a decade teaching Photoshop at both the high school and adult education levels.
Drawing upon decades of professional experience, Schneider offers attendees a rare look at how photography supports the creative and operational processes behind Disney parks and attractions.
What You’ll Learn: What Says Disney?
This isn’t a typical photography workshop focused solely on camera settings and technical fundamentals.
Instead, Schneider will explore how Imagineers use photography to tell stories, evaluate design, document projects, and understand guest experiences. Participants will gain insight into the visual language that helps create images that communicate emotion, atmosphere, and the unmistakable feeling of Disney.
Through real-world examples and behind-the-scenes stories from his time at Walt Disney Imagineering, Schneider will demonstrate how photographers can move beyond simply documenting a scene to creating images that capture narrative and meaning.
Topics include:
- Photography as a storytelling tool
- How Imagineers document attraction development and design reviews
- Capturing guest interaction and experience
- Visual composition techniques used in themed entertainment
- Evaluating images for storytelling effectiveness
- Creating photographs that evoke emotion and immersion
- Understanding what makes an image feel distinctly Disney
Hands-On Learning Experience
Attendees won’t just sit in a classroom. Following instructions and demonstrations, participants will put their new knowledge into practice by venturing into the Disney park of their choice to complete suggested photographic compositions and exercises.
On the second day, attendees will reconvene for a professional review and critique session led by Schneider, providing valuable feedback and insights that can help photographers continue developing their craft.
Course Requirements
To get the most from this masterclass, attendees should have a working knowledge of their camera equipment.
DSLR, SLR, and Advanced Camera Users: Participants using DSLR, SLR, mirrorless, or other cameras with adjustable shutter speed, aperture, and ISO settings should possess basic to intermediate operational knowledge of their equipment.
Point-and-Shoot and Smartphone Users: Guests using point-and-shoot cameras or smartphones should be familiar with their device’s capabilities and limitations.
Event Schedule
Day One: Friday, August 7, 2026
9:00 AM – Morning classroom instruction, demonstrations, and attendee participation
12:30 PM – Working lunch (provided)
1:30 PM – Afternoon classroom instruction
3:00 PM – Field photography session in the Disney park of your choice to complete suggested compositions and exercises
Day Two: Saturday, August 8, 2026
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Professional review and critique session
A Rare Opportunity for Disney and Photography Fans
Few photographers have had the opportunity to document Disney parks and attractions from the Imagineering perspective. Even fewer are willing to share the lessons they’ve learned throughout decades of professional experience.
Whether you’re a Disney enthusiast, aspiring photographer, content creator, or themed entertainment professional, this masterclass offers a unique opportunity to learn how storytelling, design, and photography intersect within Walt Disney Imagineering.
Join Jerry Schneider and discover how to create images that do more than capture a moment—they tell a story.
Learn the WEDway: Photography Through the Imagineering Lens with Jerry Schneider
Space is limited for this exclusive WDWNT masterclass. Reserve your spot today and gain insight into the techniques, philosophies, and storytelling approaches that have helped define some of Disney’s most memorable visual experiences.
For event tickets, please visit events.wdwnt.com
For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
