Thanks for your appreciation 
Well normally they ask for money even a child, otherwise they cover their face when u position your camera but in our case its the festival day so no one care about photography.
We joined a trekking group for festival and they book a Toyota Coster for trip. Coster take us till Ayoon (10 KM before Kalash). From Ayoon to Kalash we hire NCP Toyota Corolla cars. My recommendation is Don't use your personal car as Lowari Top is not friendly for Cars.
Advance booking is only required in festival days. The best hotel in valley is TDCP @ 2200 for normal room. You may book in advance by call TDCP Islamabad office.