Do they schedule photo specials as I seen them do it but can’t find it any where on the website please answer as the time they usually do it is coming up

No, they do not. There is a "roaming " photographer that will be a part of your journey. I will say that GSMR is money well spent, the 3rd party vendor for photos is not. Not bashing the 3rd party, just use your phones and you can capture some great moments. Most car conductors will alert you to photo ops. GSMR is one of our MUSTS when coming home to the Smokies.

A photographer came through our car!

We didn't see a photographer on our ride. But the conductor did give a great tour and alert us to photo ops

There is a photographer on the train that takes pictures

I am not sure on that. I would just have your family stand by the engine or one of the cars and take your photos that way