Memory Maker is a photo package that you can add onto your Walt Disney World vacation. We have done trips both with and without Memory Maker. There are variables that go into deciding if it’s worth it for each trip. Here are a few tried and true tips and tricks to this great vacation add-on.
If this is a first visit for your family, you MUST get the Memory Maker. If you are a Disney regular (visit annually) it may not be worthwhile each visit.
Memory Maker: What Is It?
The idea of Memory Maker is simple. For one low price, you can get as many pictures as you want taken by professional Disney photographers. The pictures are always taken in high-profile areas of the parks, such as Cinderella’s Castle or Spaceship Earth. You even get all of your ride photos included with the Memory Maker.
The cost of Memory Maker does scare off some buyers. Disney charges $199 for this add-on. If you order on-line more than three days prior to your arrival, the price does drop to $169. That’s a $30 savings, so it’s definitely worthwhile to pre-order.
After using Memory Maker multiple times, I finally figured out how to get the most bang for my buck. Here are four reasons why you will want it on your next Disney vacation.
Four Reasons You Want Memory Maker
1. Magic Shots are photos you won’t get anywhere else, bottom line. The Photo Pass photographer has special overlays that can be imposed in the photo. Kids love these because you don’t know who is in the photo until you view it online. Recently, Disney added actual animation to some Magic Shots. It certainly gives you the once in a lifetime shot, all you have to do is ask.
If you visit during special events there will be really great shots, so be sure not to miss them during the Halloween or Christmas parties.
2. Professional Photos
Disney Photo Pass photographers are professional photographers. These experts will find a way to show your good side, and get the screaming toddlers to pose for the perfect photo. We have used our Photo Pass pictures for Christmas cards; the quality is that good. We have left with over 700 photos from one visit. Believe me, you will absolutely use this service.
3. Ride Photos
My girls LOVE to pose on rides for ridiculous ride photos, and with Memory Maker we can take them home. You also get the ride video with Memory Maker! A ride video can cost upwards of $40.00, so this is a great value.
4. Split The Cost
One of the most useful parts of Memory Maker is that it can be shared. If you are traveling with friends and/or family members, they have the ability to add photos to the master account. They don’t even have to be with you to do so. All they need to do is be connected to you on the Friends and Family list on My Disney Experience. As long as you are connected, every picture they take will be uploaded to your account.
The Disney Memory Maker is always a worthwhile purchase for our longer trips. My girls have a blast with the photos and I love the surprises I get when I download them. I don’t even take a camera into the park when we have Memory Maker. The Disney photographers do all the work for me.
Do you add Memory Maker during your Walt Disney World vacation?