Disney World has never been afraid to experiment with new technology, but its latest test at Magic Kingdom is already creating controversy.
Disney PhotoPass recently tested a Haunted Mansion Magic Shot that gives guests a rather grim transformation. Instead of simply adding a ghost or another digital effect to the background, the finished image turns guests into stone busts.
The concept fits Haunted Mansion. The technology apparently behind it, however, is where some fans are drawing the line.
Haunted Mansion Guests Become Part of the Attraction
The PhotoPass test took place outside Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom late last week and may have continued through the weekend.
Guests posed near the attraction's iron fence before receiving a heavily transformed image. The finished photos placed their faces onto carved stone busts sitting on ivy-covered pedestals, with Haunted Mansion looming behind them.
The busts resemble the Dread Family busts found in the attraction's interactive queue.
Disney's effect also retained details from each person, including hair, glasses, facial hair, clothing, and expressions. Some versions featured “Limited Edition 2026” branding, while another included a “2026” plaque.
It's certainly different from the typical PhotoPass picture.
Generative AI Sparks Backlash
Disney PhotoPass has manipulated guest photos for years. Magic Shots can add characters and other elements that weren't physically present when the picture was taken. Tinker Bell appearing in a guest's hands is one familiar example.
This test goes significantly further by recreating the guest as a sculpture rather than simply placing another element into an existing photograph.
The effect appears to use generative AI, although Disney has not publicly confirmed the exact technology involved.
That apparent use of AI quickly generated criticism on Facebook and Twitter. Some fans said they were uncomfortable with Disney using generative AI to alter guest photos in this way.
Not everyone hated the idea. Other guests praised the finished product, showing just how divided reactions to the experiment have become.
I have no words… pic.twitter.com/Qr3qGCk5eF
— Themountainking (@Themountainkin1) September 28, 2026
Could More AI Be Coming to Disney World?
The bigger question is whether this represents where PhotoPass is heading next.
Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro has previously discussed using artificial intelligence in new ways to improve efficiency and enhance guest experiences.
A Haunted Mansion photograph may be a relatively small experiment, but it puts AI directly in front of park guests.
For now, Disney hasn't announced whether the Haunted Mansion Magic Shot will return or become permanent.
The test may disappear completely. Disney could also adjust the concept before trying it again.
Either way, the reaction shows that introducing generative AI into Disney World experiences may prove considerably more complicated than simply creating another spooky PhotoPass effect.
