Official camera of the mouse: Nikon signs Disney parks deal

 

 

Visit one of Walt Disney's theme parks around the world, and you're infinitely more likely to see its iconic Mickey Mouse character in front of the tourists' lenses, rather than behind the camera. But have you ever wondered what camera Mickey Mouse would choose to shoot with, were those roles reversed? Until recently, Mickey and company had a long allegiance with Eastman Kodak, but with that company's bankruptcy and exit from the consumer space, the sponsorship deal ended almost two years ago.

Now, Mickey has a new sponsor, and a new favorite camera brand: Nikon. The company has just signed a multi-year deal that sees it made the official camera of both Walt Disney World (Lake Buena Vista, FL) and Disneyland Resort (Anaheim, CA). As part of the deal, you'll be seeing Nikon-branded Picture Spots on your next visit to either park, and Nikon gear will service both parks' photo needs. Photographers for the Disney PhotoPass Service, Fairy Tale Weddings and Honeymoons, and Adventures by Disney will all use Nikon cameras and accessories.

 

Nikon is now the official camera at Disneyland (shown) and Walt Disney World.
(Photo courtesy of Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland)

That's huge news for Nikon, because Disney's parks are big business. Walt Disney World in particular is the largest and most-visited vacation resort in the world. It's also the largest single-site employer in the United States, with nearly 70,000 employees in a complex that covers close to 40 square miles.

Terms of the deal, including its length, weren't disclosed, and nor was specific photo gear that will be used in the parks identified. 

 

Nikon-branded Picture Spots will be set up in both parks.
Photo courtesy of Gene Duncan/Disney.