Capturing Magical Memories with Disney’s Memory Maker: Is It Worth It?
Disney World is full of magic, and there are a lot of moments you’ll want to hold onto. Memory Maker is Disney’s photo package that makes it easy to bring all of it home. Here’s everything you need to know about the PhotoPass service, whether Memory Maker is worth it, and how to add it to your trip.
PhotoPass vs. Memory Maker: What’s the Difference?
All throughout the parks, Disney PhotoPass photographers are ready to snap your picture at iconic spots, in front of attractions, and at character meet-and-greets. You never have to pay just to have your photo taken, and if you’d rather, you can hand them your own phone or camera and they’ll grab the shot for you for free. Easy.
Memory Maker is the separate package that lets you actually keep all of it. It gives you the digital copies of every single photo Disney’s photographers take of you, including your ride and attraction photos, so you can download, print, and share every moment without a watermark.
Is Memory Maker Worth It?
If it’s your first Disney trip, you’re coming back after a long time away, or you’re traveling with kids of any age, Memory Maker can be such a great addition. Here’s why I love it:
-
Everyone’s in the shot
We all know that one person who’s always behind the camera (yes, I’m looking at you, Mom). With Memory Maker, your whole group gets to be in the picture every single time.
-
It captures the real magic
Disney’s photographers catch the best candid moments, especially at character meet-and-greets. These aren’t just the posed shots. You’ll get those first-time reactions too, and those are the ones that get me every time.
-
The photos are high quality
Disney’s photographers use professional-grade equipment, so your photos come out sharp and vibrant. You can still add your own filters later, but you’re starting with something beautiful.
-
You get your ride photos
So many rides have cameras capturing the thrill of the moment. With Memory Maker, those photos link automatically to your My Disney Experience account through your MagicBand. No tracking down kiosks or buying single images.
-
Magic Shots
Only PhotoPass photographers can give you Magic Shots, the fun animated add-ons like Tinker Bell on your shoulder or Simba in your arms. Kids and grown-ups love these, and they’re only yours with Memory Maker.
-
You can share with everyone
Traveling with a group? You can link everyone’s photos to one account and download all the shared images without watermarks. It’s a great way to share memories across families.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Memory Maker covers a ton of your Disney experience, but there are a couple of limits worth knowing:
- PhotoPass photographers aren’t at every character location or character meal, so bring your own camera for those moments.
- Some spots, like the popular castle photo areas, can have longer lines.
- Photo quality can vary, and not every single picture will be perfect. But with the sheer number you get, you’ll always end up with plenty to love.
Pricing & How to Add It to Your Trip
Adding Memory Maker to your package costs $185 when you buy it at least three days before your trip, which is $25 less than buying it once you’re in the parks. If you decide to grab it after your trip, it’s $210.
Not sure if you already have it? Check your invoice, or just ask me and I’ll double-check for you. Memory Maker has to be added at least three days before check-in, so if you’re interested, let me know soon and I’ll take care of it.
Memory Maker is one of the easiest ways to bring the whole trip home with you. If you’re unsure whether it’s right for your family or you’re ready to add it, just reach out. I’m here to help make your Disney trip as memorable as it can be.
