Are you planning a trip to the most magical place on earth? Then you might be wondering if investing in Disney Memory Maker is worth it. This service allows you to capture all the memorable moments of your Disney adventure with professional-quality photos. But is it worth the extra cost? In this article, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of Disney Memory Maker to help you make an informed decision and make the most of your Disney experience. So, let’s dive in and find out if it’s a must-have or a nice-to-have addition to your Disney vacation.
Understanding Disney Memory Maker
What is Disney Memory Maker?
Disney Memory Maker is a photography product offered by Disney Parks that allows guests to capture, view, and share their Disney memories. This service provides unlimited digital downloads of all the photos taken by Disney’s official photographers throughout the parks, as well as select locations in the resorts and on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. The photos are available for download through the My Disney Experience app, where guests can also view and share their memories with family and friends.
Key Features of Disney Memory Maker
Unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos
Disney PhotoPass is a service that allows guests to capture special memories throughout their visit to Disney parks. With the purchase of Disney Memory Maker, guests can enjoy unlimited digital downloads of their Disney PhotoPass photos, which can be accessed and shared through the My Disney Experience app. This feature allows guests to capture as many photos as they want during their trip without worrying about the cost of each individual photo.
Access to new features like Disneyland’s Magic Shot and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge’s virtual queue
Disney Memory Maker also grants guests access to new and exclusive features that are only available to those who have purchased the service. For example, at Disneyland, guests can access the Magic Shot feature, which allows them to take photos with special effects that cannot be achieved with regular cameras. Similarly, at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, guests can use the virtual queue system to get access to the popular Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride without having to wait in line for hours.
Exclusive in-park PhotoPass experiences
In addition to the digital downloads and new features, Disney Memory Maker also includes exclusive in-park PhotoPass experiences. These experiences are unique to each park and can only be accessed by guests who have purchased Disney Memory Maker. For example, at the Magic Kingdom, guests can take photos with the Disney PhotoPass photographers at specific locations throughout the park, such as in front of the castle or in Fantasyland. These exclusive experiences offer a unique and personalized way to capture memories of your Disney vacation.
Cost and Purchase Options
When considering whether or not to invest in Disney Memory Maker, it’s important to understand the cost and purchase options available. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing information and purchase options for Disney Memory Maker:
Pricing Information
The cost of Disney Memory Maker varies depending on the length of your visit and the Disney theme park you are visiting. As of 2021, the pricing for Disney Memory Maker is as follows:
- One-Day Memory Maker: $24.99
- One-Week Memory Maker: $99.99
- One-Month Memory Maker: $199.99
- PhotoPass Lens for Smartphone: $2.99 per day
Please note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on your specific travel dates and other factors.
Purchase Options
Disney Memory Maker is available for purchase in several ways:
- Individual Purchase: You can purchase Disney Memory Maker for yourself individually. This option is best if you are visiting the parks alone or with a small group of people.
- Family Purchase: You can purchase Disney Memory Maker for your immediate family (up to 6 people). This option is best if you are visiting the parks with a larger group of people, such as a family or a group of friends.
- Annual Passholder Discount: If you are an Annual Passholder, you are eligible for a discount on Disney Memory Maker. The discount varies depending on the type of Annual Pass you have.
In addition to these purchase options, there are also bundle deals available that include Disney Memory Maker along with other Disney experiences, such as dining plans and resort packages.
Overall, understanding the cost and purchase options for Disney Memory Maker can help you make an informed decision about whether or not it’s worth the investment for your Disney vacation.
Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks
Benefits of Disney Memory Maker
- Saves money on individual photo purchases
Disney Memory Maker is a great way to save money on individual photo purchases. Instead of buying each photo separately, you can purchase the Memory Maker package and receive unlimited digital downloads of all your Disney PhotoPass photos. This can add up to significant savings, especially if you plan on taking a lot of photos during your trip. - Offers exclusive in-park experiences
Disney Memory Maker also offers exclusive in-park experiences that are not available to guests who do not purchase the package. These experiences include special photo opportunities, such as meeting Disney characters in unique locations or getting a special view of fireworks or parades. These exclusive experiences can make your Disney trip even more magical and memorable. - Provides access to advanced features
Disney Memory Maker also provides access to advanced features, such as the ability to view and download your photos on the go with the Disney PhotoPass app. The app allows you to easily view and share your photos with friends and family, as well as make prints or products. This convenience can help you make the most of your Disney experience and ensure that you don’t miss any of your favorite moments.
Drawbacks of Disney Memory Maker
High upfront cost
One of the most significant drawbacks of Disney Memory Maker is its high upfront cost. The price of the package can vary depending on the length of your stay and the time of year you visit. For example, as of 2021, the price for a 7-day Memory Maker package during peak season starts at $199, while the same package during non-peak season starts at $169. This cost can be a significant investment, especially for families with a tight budget or those who do not plan to capture a substantial number of photos during their trip.
May not be cost-effective for short trips
Another drawback of Disney Memory Maker is that it may not be cost-effective for short trips. If you only have a few days at the parks, you may not have enough time to take advantage of all the photos you can capture with the Memory Maker. Additionally, if you only plan to visit a few attractions or shows, the cost of the Memory Maker may not be worth it for your specific trip.
Some experiences may not be captured by PhotoPass photographers
Lastly, it’s important to note that some experiences may not be captured by PhotoPass photographers, even if you have purchased the Disney Memory Maker package. For example, if you are in a ride vehicle that does not stop for photos, the PhotoPass photographer may not be able to capture your experience. Additionally, some experiences, such as character meet-and-greets, may be limited to one photo per group, even if you have purchased the Memory Maker package.
Making the Decision: Factors to Consider
Trip Duration and Itinerary
When considering whether to invest in Disney Memory Maker, it’s important to assess the duration of your trip and your itinerary. The value of the package depends on how much you plan to experience and capture during your visit to the parks. Here are some factors to consider:
- Number of days at the parks: The more days you spend at the parks, the more opportunities you have to capture memorable moments. If you’re visiting for an extended period, the value of Disney Memory Maker may be more apparent as you’ll have more chances to use the photo opportunities included in the package.
- Type of experiences planned: Reflect on the type of experiences you have planned for your trip. If you’re particularly interested in character meet-and-greets, attraction photos, or special event photos, the value of Disney Memory Maker may be higher for you. These types of experiences are extensively covered by the package, making it easier to capture those cherished memories without worrying about additional costs.
- Park-specific offerings: Each park has unique offerings that may appeal to different preferences. For example, Disneyland offers the Magic Shot, which adds a magical element to your photos, while Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge provides a virtual queue system to minimize wait times. Consider the park-specific offerings and assess whether they align with your interests and the experiences you wish to capture.
By evaluating these factors, you can determine whether Disney Memory Maker is a suitable investment for your trip, ensuring you get the most value out of your Disney experience.
Budget and Cost Savings
When deciding whether or not to invest in Disney Memory Maker, it’s important to consider your budget and potential cost savings. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Total cost of purchasing photos individually: If you were to purchase all of the photos you take during your Disney vacation individually, the cost could quickly add up. For example, a single print of a photo at Disneyland can cost anywhere from $15 to $30, and if you take several photos throughout your trip, you could end up spending a significant amount of money.
- Cost of Disney Memory Maker compared to other on-site experiences: Disney Memory Maker is just one of many on-site experiences that you can purchase during your Disney vacation. It’s important to compare the cost of Disney Memory Maker to other experiences, such as dining at a character meal or purchasing souvenirs, to determine whether it’s a worthwhile investment.
- Potential for future use of purchased photos: When you purchase photos individually, they are often tied to a specific event or experience. However, with Disney Memory Maker, you have the opportunity to download and use your photos for years to come. If you have a large family or plan to take many trips to Disney in the future, the potential for future use of purchased photos could make Disney Memory Maker a worthwhile investment.
Annual Passholder Considerations
- Discounted pricing for Annual Passholders
Annual Passholders are eligible for discounted pricing on Disney Memory Maker, which can make it a more attractive investment for those who visit the parks frequently. For example, as of 2021, the Disney Memory Maker cost for Annual Passholders is $169, while non-Annual Passholders pay $199. - Long-term value of the product for frequent visitors
For Annual Passholders who visit the parks often, Disney Memory Maker can provide long-term value. Since the price of the Memory Maker is a one-time fee, Annual Passholders can spread out the cost over multiple visits, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run. - Potential to share with family members
Annual Passholders can also take advantage of the ability to share their Disney Memory Maker with family members. This can be especially beneficial for larger families or those with multiple Annual Passholders, as it allows them to share the cost and the photos taken. This feature can also be useful for those who want to capture photos of their family and friends experiencing the magic of Disney together.
Alternatives to Disney Memory Maker
Buying Photos Individually
- Pros of Purchasing Photos Separately
- Flexibility to choose which photos to purchase
- No upfront cost for the entire trip
- Can be cost-effective for shorter trips or those who do not plan on taking many photos
- Ability to cherry-pick the best photos and avoid any unwanted or duplicate shots
- Option to purchase physical copies or digital downloads
- Cons of Purchasing Photos Separately
- Higher per-photo cost compared to the Disney Memory Maker
- No discounts on multiple purchases
- No access to professional photo shoot photos
- Time-consuming process to purchase and organize photos after the trip
- No automatic syncing of photos to your device
When deciding whether to purchase Disney Memory Maker or to buy photos individually, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons based on your personal preferences and travel habits. For those who take many photos during their trip or want to capture professional photo shoot photos, Disney Memory Maker may be a more convenient and cost-effective option. However, for those who only plan on taking a few photos or prefer to cherry-pick their favorites, buying photos individually may be a better choice.
Utilizing Smartphone Camera Features
While Disney Memory Maker is a popular option for capturing memories during a Disney vacation, it is not the only way to preserve precious moments. One alternative is to utilize the camera features on your smartphone.
Using phone camera features to capture memories
Many smartphones come equipped with advanced camera features that can help you capture high-quality photos and videos. Some of these features include:
- Timer function: This feature allows you to set a timer to take a photo without the need for a tripod or a selfie stick. It is particularly useful when you want to capture a group photo or a family portrait.
- Grid lines: Many smartphone cameras have a grid line feature that can help you align your shots more accurately. This is especially helpful when trying to capture a perfect family photo or a well-composed landscape shot.
- Digital zoom: While optical zoom is always better, digital zoom can still help you get closer to your subject without having to move physically closer. This can be particularly useful when trying to capture a photo of a particular character or a performer on stage.
- Image stabilization: This feature helps to reduce blur in your photos by compensating for movement. It is particularly useful when taking photos in low light conditions or when trying to capture a fast-moving subject.
Pros and cons of this approach
While utilizing smartphone camera features can be a cost-effective alternative to Disney Memory Maker, there are some pros and cons to consider.
- Pros:
- You already have your smartphone with you, so there is no need to purchase additional equipment.
- You can easily share your photos and videos on social media or via email.
- You have more control over your shots, as you can adjust settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.
- Cons:
- The quality of your photos and videos may not be as good as those captured by a dedicated camera or Disney Memory Maker.
- You may not have access to certain features or tools that are available with Disney Memory Maker, such as unlimited digital downloads or professional photo editing.
- You will need to physically hold your phone or use a tripod to take some shots, which can be cumbersome and limit your mobility.
Overall, while utilizing smartphone camera features can be a viable alternative to Disney Memory Maker, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your personal preferences and needs.
Enlisting Friends and Family for Photos
Using friends and family as photographers is a popular alternative to purchasing Disney Memory Maker. This approach has its own set of pros and cons, which will be discussed in detail below.
Pros:
- Convenience: Friends and family members are typically more flexible with their schedules, making it easier to coordinate photo sessions.
- Personal touch: Having someone you know take your photos can result in a more personal and unique experience, as they may be able to capture candid moments that a professional photographer might miss.
- Cost-effective: Depending on the number of photos you need, enlisting friends and family for photos can be a more cost-effective option than purchasing Disney Memory Maker.
Cons:
- Quality: The quality of photos taken by friends and family members may not be as high as those taken by professional Disney photographers.
- Time constraints: You may need to rely on the availability of your friends and family members, which can limit the time you have to take photos.
- Equipment: Your friends and family members may not have the necessary equipment, such as a professional camera or lighting, to capture high-quality photos.
Overall, using friends and family as photographers can be a great alternative to Disney Memory Maker, especially if you have a large support system willing to help. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your own needs and preferences before making a decision.
Third-Party Photography Services
When considering the cost of Disney Memory Maker, it’s worth exploring alternative photography services available at Disney parks. These services offer different benefits and drawbacks, depending on your needs and preferences. Here’s a closer look at some of the third-party photography services available:
Character Meet and Greet Photography
Disney parks offer professional photography services for character meet and greets. These photographers capture pictures of you and your family with beloved Disney characters. While this service is free, you only receive one print of each photo taken during your visit.
Pros:
- Free service
- High-quality photos
- No need to purchase additional memory cards or storage devices
Cons:
- Limited availability, depending on the character and location
- No digital copies or access to online galleries
- Only one print per photo
Disney PhotoPass Service
Disney PhotoPass is a complimentary service that captures photos throughout the parks. PhotoPass photographers can be found at various locations, including character meet and greets, ride exits, and iconic park landmarks. Like the character meet and greet photography, you only receive one print of each photo taken during your visit.
- Limited availability, depending on the location and time
Professional Photography Services
Several third-party photography services operate within Disney parks, offering a range of packages and services. These services may include professional family portraits, ride photos, and character meet and greet photos. Prices vary depending on the package and services selected.
- More flexibility in choosing the photos you want to capture
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Access to digital copies and online galleries
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Additional cost compared to Disney Memory Maker or Disney PhotoPass
- Limited availability of certain services, depending on the photographer
- Some photographers may require pre-booking or have limited operating hours
DIY Photography
Finally, many visitors choose to capture their own photos using their personal cameras or smartphones. This option offers the most flexibility in terms of timing and location but may not provide the same level of quality or professional guidance as other services.
- Full control over when and where you capture photos
- Ability to share and download photos directly to your device
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No additional cost
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Lower quality compared to professional photography services
- Limited knowledge of optimal shooting settings and locations
- No access to online galleries or digital copies
Disney PhotoPass+
- A newer product offering more options
- Disney PhotoPass+ is a newer product that offers a range of photography services to help you capture memories during your visit to Disney parks. It provides you with access to more than 100 Disney PhotoPass photographers who are stationed throughout the parks to take your pictures.
- Comparison to Disney Memory Maker
- While Disney Memory Maker is a popular option for capturing your Disney memories, Disney PhotoPass+ offers several advantages that make it a viable alternative. Firstly, it includes additional benefits such as access to exclusive Disney PhotoPass lenses and virtual queues for select attractions. Secondly, it provides you with more opportunities to capture your memories with a professional photographer. Additionally, it also allows you to share your photos with friends and family through the My Disney Experience app, making it easier to share your Disney memories with others.
FAQs
1. What is Disney Memory Maker?
Disney Memory Maker is a digital service offered by Disney that allows guests to capture, view and share their Disney photos and videos taken at select Disney parks and resorts. It is designed to make it easy for guests to preserve and share their Disney memories.
2. How does Disney Memory Maker work?
Guests can purchase Disney Memory Maker at the Disney park or in advance online. Once activated, the service automatically captures photos and videos taken at select Disney parks and resorts, including character meet-and-greets, parades, fireworks, and more. Guests can then view and share their photos and videos through the My Disney Experience app, or through the My Disney Memories website.
3. Is Disney Memory Maker worth the cost?
The cost of Disney Memory Maker varies depending on the length of your trip and whether you purchase it in advance or at the park. Some guests may find the cost to be a worthwhile investment for the convenience and memories it provides, while others may prefer to capture their own photos and videos without the added cost. Ultimately, whether or not Disney Memory Maker is worth the cost is a personal decision and depends on individual preferences and budget.
4. Can I use Disney Memory Maker with my own camera or phone?
Yes, you can use Disney Memory Maker with your own camera or phone. The service is designed to automatically capture photos and videos taken at select Disney parks and resorts, but you can also manually add your own photos and videos to the service using the My Disney Experience app or the My Disney Memories website.
5. What attractions and experiences are included with Disney Memory Maker?
Disney Memory Maker includes photos and videos taken at select Disney parks and resorts, including character meet-and-greets, parades, fireworks, and more. However, it does not include photos and videos taken at all attractions and experiences. Guests can check the Disney Memory Maker product page for a list of included attractions and experiences.
6. Can I share my Disney Memory Maker photos and videos with friends and family?
Yes, you can share your Disney Memory Maker photos and videos with friends and family through the My Disney Experience app, the My Disney Memories website, or by downloading them to your own device. You can also order prints of your photos and create custom photo products such as photo books, cards, and more.
7. How long is the Disney Memory Maker available for?
The length of time that Disney Memory Maker is available for varies depending on the length of your trip. Guests can purchase Disney Memory Maker for the length of their trip, plus an additional day. For example, if you purchase Disney Memory Maker for a 7-day trip, you will have access to the service for 8 days.
8. Can I purchase Disney Memory Maker at the park or do I need to purchase it in advance?
You can purchase Disney Memory Maker at the park or in advance online. Purchasing in advance online may offer additional benefits such as discounts and early access to photos and videos. However, purchasing at the park may be more convenient for those who prefer to wait until they arrive at Disney to decide whether or not to purchase the service.
