Smartphone images present opportunities for theme parks

With smartphone cameras becoming more advanced through each generation and one trillion images being captured every year on mobile devices, Chris Warhurst, Chief Executive at Magic Memories, sees that the technology presents opportunities for the theme parks industry.

In a LinkedIn post, Warhurst sees that social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook are playing a huge role in the rise of smartphone photography, writing “as we are able to instantaneously share our experiences with friends and followers – whether we’re relaxing on a sun lounger in Hawaii or at the top of a mountain in South Africa.”

He explains “it’s no surprise that smartphones could potentially be seen as a threat to the attractions industry … but while ‘video may have killed the radio star’, the rise of the smartphone is in fact set to give the attractions sector a big boost.”

Sharing Magic Memories research that looked into consumer attitudes towards capturing and sharing experiences, polling almost 2,000 consumers across the Australia, the UK and USA, Warhurst advised that the ability to capture and share an experience via photograph or video is almost as important as the experience itself.

The research uncovered that 75% of respondents said it’s important to take photos when visiting tourist attractions and theme parks, and nearly all respondents (83%) stated that they showcase/share photographs of memorable experiences on social media.

Warhurst advised “if the attractions industry wants to capitalise on this opportunity, it’s important to capture visitors in special moments throughout their day, and provide them with memorable content directly onto their mobile devices in a unique and exciting way.

“This is especially true for more immersive, experience-led attractions that are becoming more popular within theme parks across the globe. The Bear Grylls Adventure in the UK, for example, allows guests to take on some serious mental and physical challenges; from rock climbing, zip lining and indoor skydiving – experiences guests can’t capture themselves.

“By taking images of visitors in the midst of their adventure, attractions are able to offer highly desirable content that guests will be itching to get hold of so they can boast about their unforgettable, extreme experience on social media.

“With technology advancing at breakneck speed, image capture has now become intrinsic to the guest experience. By working with an image capture partner who understands visitors’ needs and the importance of investing in new technology to remain relevant, attractions can increase guest engagement, drive conversion and promote the fun of their attraction by creating unforgettable, personalised experiences and stories - ensuring guests leave with life long memories they can share and cherish, immediately and into the future.”