What happens when music, travel, and a little bit of Disney magic come together? This past spring break, the IHS music department found out firsthand during their unforgettable trip to Disney on April 5, 2026, filled with performances, exploration, and memorable moments throughout the parks and resort. To capture the experience, a photo contest was held, featuring categories that highlight different aspects of the trip. From character interactions, themed moments, and overall magic, each picture uniquely displayed its category perfectly. Winners were revealed during morning announcements on Friday, April 17.
Category #1 “Be Our Guest”
Winner: Matthew Liepert
Why was this chosen?
- (Theme Relevance)- Highlights a resort dining experience as part of the trip.
- (Atmosphere)- The themed pirate-show background adds a unique and immersive setting.
- (Visual Appeal)- The plated meal stands out against the lively backdrop, creating a strong contrast.
- (Storytelling)- Captures both the food and the entertainment in one memorable moment.
Category #2 “Dress To Impress”
Winner: Lindsey Lieu
Why was this chosen?
- (Theme Relevance)- Clearly displays Disney bounding, with recognizable Disney-inspired costumes.
- (Creativity)- Fun and thoughtful choices of Flynn Rider and Rapunzel outfits bring the characters to life.
- (Visual Appeal)- Coordinated styling, photo balance, background relevance, and lighting make the photo eye-catching and polished.
- (Storytelling)- Feels like a real Disney moment, capturing the spirit of the characters and the trip.
Category #3 “Magic In The Moment”
Winner: Brooke Coldsnow
Why was this chosen?
- (Theme Relevance)- Fits a magical moment by capturing an interaction with a Disney princess.
- (Authenticity)- Shows a real, spontaneous park experience with students and a Disney acting character.
- (Emotional Impact)- Highlights the excitement and joy of meeting a Disney princess.
- (Storytelling)- Preserves a memorable, once- in-a-trip moment.
Category #4 “Hotel Highlights”
Winner: Samantha Kandzer
Why was this chosen?
- (Theme Relevance)- fits “Hotel Highlights” by capturing a fun resort moment outside of the parks.
- (Lighting and Color)- Bright lighting and vibrant colors make the photo visually striking.
- (Humor)- The alligator display adds a playful and entertaining touch to the picture.
- (Authenticity)- A great candid moment shows a student enjoying the trip experience.
Category#5 “Best Overall”
Winner: Lindsey Lieu
Why was this chosen?
- (Visual Impact)- A breathtaking nighttime shot of the castle illuminated by fireworks and vibrant lights
- (Composition)- The crows in the foreground add depth and show the shared experience of the moment.
- (Atmosphere)- The glowing lights, fireworks, and silhouetted tree create a strong sense of Disney magic, capturing the trip in one picture.
- (Memorability)- Small details, like the little girl on someone’s back, add a personal, nostalgic, and unforgettable touch.
