Universal Orlando Photography Guide by Julia Lexx

Photography Photography

Welcome to Julia Lexx's Marvelously Magical Photography Adventure at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure in sunny Florida!

Hello, my name is Julia Lexx. I'm a professional photographer and a wizard :) Well, as much as I would love to call myself a real wizard, I've been a wizard of photography for the last 10 years and am the biggest fan of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. While I might not be able to summon a Patronus or take flight on a Nimbus 2000, my camera and I have the magical prowess to make your memories last a lifetime

With over a decade of professional photography experience, I've had the privilege of being part of talented teams that have worked with celebrities such as Kristen Stewart Ashley Benson David Guetta and Patrick Dempsey

WHY UNIVERSAL?

Before we dive into the heart of our photo session tips at Universal Orlando, I'd love to share a bit more about my journey.

Picture this: a wide-eyed 5-year-old mesmerized by the cinematic magic of "Jurassic Park " While I might not recall every detail of that day, one image left an indelible mark on my young mind a vast, bright blue globe spinning before my eyes, followed by videos of creatures I’ve never seen before. Shock visuals went straight to core memories. It sparked a curiosity in me, not just about these prehistoric creatures, but it also kindled a deep-seated love for the storytelling and imagination behind Universal Studios' films That awe I felt as a child returns every time I see the iconic globe at Universal Orlando Park.

Being a part of the Universal experience has been an immense privilege and joy, offering me a unique lens through which to view and capture the world

How it How it works works

Our Pre-Session

Let's kick things off with a 15-minute consultation. It's your chance to fire away with questions and concerns. Once you ' ve booked your session we'll schedule a 15-minute Zoom consultation to discuss details and help you to choose outfits This is your opportunity to ask any questions and express any concerns you might have Think of it as a casual chat to get us both on the same page!

Quick Guide

Express Passes & Dining: Reserve your express passes and dinner spots early. It’s like having a magic carpet – you get to skip the queue!

Capture the Journey: While rides and their queues are a no-go for photography gear, the paths leading to Hogwarts and Gippogryff are full of photo-worthy moments.

Owl Post Special: Send your greetings via the Owl Post in Hogsmeade for that authentic wizarding world stamp. Much faster than the standard owl service!

Booking Ahead is Key: For the perfect photo op, book your session 2-3 months in advance. Remember, a text is quicker than an owl – especially for those last-minute arrangements.

Park-to-Park Tickets: To journey between the parks aboard the Hogwarts Express, make sure to secure Park-toPark tickets. It's the only way to travel in magical style between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. Not a pass holder? No problem! With my help you will have an opportunity to buy favorite merch with 10-15% discount.

Outfits

Unleash your creativity and embrace your style Universal Orlando is the perfect place to express yourself! If you ' re pondering over wardrobe choices, worry not. Whether we dip into the treasure trove of outfits from Universal itself or scout Amazon for budget-friendly finds, you'll discover that the park offers unparalleled options that truly stand out. During our complimentary consultation, we'll delve into outfit selections that mirror your personality and meet your session goals seamlessly.

While I encourage you to express yourself, here are a few pointers to ensure your photos turn out spectacularly:

Avoid large logos or bold graphics unless it's Universal Orlando merchandise, of course. These pieces can distract from the magical backdrop of our photos. Denim Shorts are a comfort, but they might not always blend well with the aesthetic we ' re aiming for. Consider swapping them for fabric pants or cargo pants to elevate your look If jeans are a must, let's ensure they complement the overall ensemble. Ask me for suggestions. Remember, even in the heart of amusement park fun, your outfit choices can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your photos. Don't hesitate to ask for my advice; I'm here to help you look and feel your best!

CHARACTER MEET-AND-GREETS

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA:

While I can't conjure up an enchanted map that whispers directions, my expertly crafted guide to the who's who and where's where of character meet-and-greets will make snapping those memorable pics a breeze!

HOLLYWOOD

Beetlejuice – Striking poses in Hollywood. Betty Boop – Flaunting her charm in Hollywood and New York, with guest appearances in Islands of Adventure's Toon Lagoon Doc Brown – Time-traveling on Hollywood Blvd

Dora, Boots, Diego – Exploring near Mel’s Drive-In.

Penguins from Madagascar – Marching in Hollywood and Central Park

Scooby Doo, Shaggy, Velma, Fred, Daphne –Solving mysteries on Hollywood Blvd.

Puss in Boots – Adventuring in Central Park.

DreamWorks Trolls – Grooving in Central Park

NEW YORK

DreamWorks Trolls – Grooving in Central Park HashTag the Panda – Dancing away at Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon. King Julien – Shaking his tail feathers in Central Park, and occasionally in The Lost Continent at Islands of Adventure.

Revenge of the Mummy Characters – Lurking outside of the “Revenge of the Mummy” Ride

Hello Kitty – Being adorable inside the Hello Kitty store

Shrek, Donkey, Fiona – on hold

SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star, Squidward – Hanging out at SpongeBob StorePants

The Simpsons – Causing a commotion in Springfield

Transformers (Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and Megatron) – Ready for action in the alley near TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3-D

Knight Bus Conductor – Chatting in London Minions – Stirring up mischief at the Illumination Theatre.

CHARAC MEET-AND-

ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE

Dr. Seuss Characters – Causing whimsical chaos in Seuss Landing and during the "Oh! The Stories You'll Hear" show

Hogwarts Express Conductor – Whistling away near the Hogsmeade train

Jurassic World's Velociraptor Blue & baby raptors – Roaring between the Jurassic Park River Adventure and the Discovery Center

Kung Fu Panda – Showcasing moves in The Lost Continent.

Madagascar Characters – King Julien and Alex the Lion ruling The Lost Continent (King Julien also parties in Central Park back at Universal Studios).

Marvel Characters (Wolverine, Cyclops, Spider-Man, Storm, Rogue, Captain America, Green Goblin, Dr. Doom) – Heroically posing in Marvel Super Hero Island.

Popeye and Olive Oyl – Sailing through Toon Lagoon.

Triwizard Spirit Rally characters (Durmstrang and Beauxbatons) –Displaying their school pride in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, on the stage

Remember, the magical realm of Universal Orlando Parks means character appearances can change faster than you can say "Expelliarmus!" So, while we aim for accuracy, the actual character meet-and-greet experiences may vary. Adventure awaits at every corner, ready for your lens to capture!

HOW MUCH TIME DO WE REALLY NEED?

To ensure we capture the essence of your Universal adventure, I recommend at least a 3-hour photo session.

This gives us enough time to explore, laugh, and maybe even enjoy a snack or two without the rush Trust me, it's worth it for those once-in-a-lifetime shots Navigating the wonders of Universal isn't just a walk in the park it's an epic adventure through realms of magic, mystery, and colossal dinosaurs So, how much time do you need to ensure your photo album rivals the tales of legendary experience?

OPT FOR THE 3-HOUR MAGIC SPELL

Given the vastness and vibrancy of the park, I strongly recommend enchanting your visit with at least a 3-hour photography package.

SINGLE PARK FOCUS

For 1 or 2-hour packages to maximize our spell effectiveness, sticking to one park per session is wise. Trust me, hopping between parks can consume anywhere from a swift 20 minutes (if we ' re lucky) to a slow-moving hour, not to mention the queue for the Hogwarts Express which can stretch up to a magical 60 minutes of our session.

STROLLING AND SNAPPING

Transitioning from the center of one park to another takes about 30 minutes on foot—perfect for capturing those candid, on-the-move shots but tricky when we ' re racing against the clock.

TIME TIPS

3 HRS

30 MIN

Each iconic spot demands 20-30 minutes of our time Why rush when you ' re making memories?

Wizarding World: About 10-minute walk from the entrance to the moment you say “Alohomora” .

VelociCoaster: A thrilling 60-90 minute wait for that heart-stopping shot. Worth it? Absolutely.

Dragon’s Breath: Every 10 minutes, fire ignites the sky (weather permitting), a spectacle not to be missed

Pit Stops: Nature's call and its unpredictable timing mean restroom breaks can add 10-20 minutes, especially with little adventurers in tow.

Feeding the Crew: Hungry explorers can find themselves waiting anywhere from a quick 3-minute snack grab to a 50-minute quest for sustenance at peak dining hours.

P A C K I N G

YOUR KIT

Comfortable shoes? Check. Safe bag for thrill rides?

Double-check Don't forget your water bottle, a trusty hairbrush, and, of course, your favorite wizarding robe or superhero cape. After all, every hero needs their costume!

Here’s your enchanted checklist to ensure that your adventure is as smooth as a ride on a Hippogriff:

Save Your Phones: Save Your Phones: A secure bag is essential for those daring A secure bag is essential for those daring rides on the VelociCoaster and the Jurassic Park River Adventure. rides on the VelociCoaster and the Jurassic Park River Adventure. Keep your magical devices safe from water and drops! Keep your magical devices safe from water and drops!

Chariots for the Little Wizards and Witches: Chariots for the Little Wizards and Witches: Strollers and Strollers and wheelchairs ensure that all adventurers, big and small or young wheelchairs ensure that all adventurers, big and small or young and old, can navigate the park with ease and old, can navigate the park with ease.

Mystical Leashes: Kids' walking harnesses—because sometimes, the Mystical Leashes: Kids' walking harnesses—because sometimes, the little ones have a bit too much potion of exploration. little ones have a bit too much potion of exploration.

Enchanted Footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must. You'll be Enchanted Footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must You'll be walking, running, and possibly dancing, after all. walking, running, and possibly dancing, after all.

Adventurer’s Rucksack: Backpacks for carrying all your magical Adventurer’s Rucksack: Backpacks for carrying all your magical gear, snacks, potions and Gilly water (or just water, as muggles gear, snacks, potions and Gilly water (or just water, as muggles call it). call it).

Wands, Hats, and Capes: Bring your favorite merch and props to Wands, Hats, and Capes: Bring your favorite merch and props to add that extra bit of your personality to the photos. Today, you add that extra bit of your personality to the photos. Today, you are the character you've always dreamed of! are the character you've always dreamed of!

Spellbound Chargers: Portable phone chargers to keep the Spellbound Chargers: Portable phone chargers to keep the magic (and your devices) alive throughout the day. magic (and your devices) alive throughout the day.

Potion Vessels: Water containers to stay hydrated. Adventuring is Potion Vessels: Water containers to stay hydrated. Adventuring is thirsty work! thirsty work!

Glamour Spells Kit: A hairbrush and powder for those touch-ups.

Glamour Spells Kit: A hairbrush and powder for those touch-ups. Because even adventurers need to look their best. Because even adventurers need to look their best.

Costumes and Robes: Immerse fully in the magic of the park Use your Costumes and Robes: Immerse fully in the magic of the park. Use your finest robes or costumes and t finest robes or costumes and transform into the hero of your own ransform into the hero of your own ttale. ale.

Sunscreen Spell: The only thing we want to catch fire is the Sunscreen Spell: The only thing we want to catch fire is the dragon, not your skin. dragon, not your skin.

Magic Map: The Universal app on your phone to navigate your Magic Map: The Universal app on your phone to navigate your quest efficiently. quest efficiently.

A Scroll of Light: Small, portable fans can be a lifesaver under A Scroll of Light: Small, portable fans can be a lifesaver under the Floridian sun. the Floridian sun.

Charm of Silence: Earplugs for little ones sensitive to the roars

Charm of Silence: Earplugs for little ones sensitive to the roars of dragons or the screams from the roller coasters. of dragons or the screams from the roller coasters.

But Wait, There's More! Welcome to the Photography Buffet

Convenience and Comfort

To enhance your experience, some of my packages include handy extras such as an assistant Why juggle bags and belongings when you can focus on enjoying the moment? Our goal is to keep the magic of your photo session alive, every step of the way

Need someone to watch your stuff while you're caught up in the fun? For $150, I've got you covered with an assistant who'll keep an eye on all your things No need to sweat about your bags, phones, or any of that You'll be free to snap away, enjoying every second without worrying about your belongings And if we move to a new spot, we’ll make sure everything gets there safely It’s all about making your experience as easy and worry-free as possible, so you can focus on the fun parts "

Unforgettable Experiences

Want to stand out? Get yourself photos that do more than just show you were there; they transport you right back to the magic of Universal Orlando We're talking about turning those snapshots into killer digital art that pops in 2D and jumps out in 3D These aren't just pictures; they're your adventure, captured and transformed into something you'll brag about for years

VIP Photo Package

Looking for the top-tier photo session? Our VIP deal is what you need. It packs everything – a pro photographer, an assistant to make things super smooth, three awesome 3D canvas prints, five unique digital art pieces, a high-quality 10x10 inch photo album, plus custom Christmas or New Year cards to show off those memories. It's everything to make sure your trip's captured just right

why choose me?

Aside from having the widest range of experience in various lighting setups, conditions and projects, I come fully equipped not just with gear but with professionalism and a knack for keeping things light and respectful. My motto is, 'Treat every client like royalty.'This approach has served me well, whether I'm working with celebrities or with the real bosses of the world—kids.

Speaking of which, kids don't do 'posing,' do they? Maybe for a nanosecond, tops. The secret sauce? Capturing the chaos and making it look like art. I'll be there to guide you, offering gentle suggestions on that age-old dilemma: 'What do I do with my hands?'

With me, you'll get shots that will look like a page in a magazine or a billboard. Yep, you'll be leaving not just as park visitors, but as genuine models, ready for your living room wall to double as your personal ad space—or maybe even your movie poster.

All trademarks mentioned herein belong exclusively to Universal Orlando Resort. Julia Lexx Photography expressly disclaims any right or authority to sell, offer for sale, or redistribute any merchandise or tickets associated with or derived from Universal Orlando Resort. Julia Lexx Photography's services are confined solely to providing photography services and do not extend to any commercial transaction involving Universal Orlando Resort’s proprietary merchandise or admission tickets.

The copyrights and trademarks for the characters and graphics belong to their respective owners and Julia Lexx Photography does not claim any type of right over them. Photography is copyrighted by Julia Lexx Photography and is not a subject for copy and use.