Disney’s Memory Maker digital photo package at Walt Disney World is a God-send for families. Strong words? Maybe. But how many vacations have you been on that when you get home and look at the photos, it looks like you weren’t even there? (Moms – you know we are guilty of this!) Since the introduction of Memory Maker in 2013, everyone gets to be in the picture!

Memory Maker is a package that includes digital copies of all of the PhotoPass pictures and videos taken during your trip. (That’s right – videos!) What is PhotoPass? Let’s start there…

Disney’s PhotoPass Service

PhotoPass is Disney’s in-park photography service. You can find PhotoPass photographers throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks! But in addition to the human PhotoPass photographers, Disney also has cameras on rides that capture images as well as automated cameras at select character meets. Guests can view their images on the PhotoPass website or in the My Disney Experience app and purchase them individually, or purchase Memory Maker.

Memory Maker Details

So what does Memory Maker include? Digital copies of literally every single image captured by PhotoPass during your stay – ride photos, posed photos, ride videos, character greets, etc. EVERYTHING! I have come home with HUNDREDS of photos. And best of all – I didn’t have to take any of them. And I got to actually be in as many as I wanted!

But wait – there’s more! If you are a scrapbooker, good news. Disney also includes downloads of stock images for your personal use. These are gorgeous shots from around Walt Disney World.

The cost of Memory Maker is $169 when purchased at least three full days in advance of your trip. Didn’t purchase in advance? You can purchase at Walt Disney World for $199 but be sure to do so on your first day as it can take a day or two for the package to activate. (Bottom line – get it in advance!) You can even add the Memory Maker to your hotel package! Annual Passholders get Memory Maker included as a benefit with their pass.

This gorgeous image of Cinderella Castle is an example of the stock photos included with Memory Maker! PhotoPass Stock Image Courtesy of Disney

Memory Maker Tip

I almost forgot the best part! If you are traveling with a group or family members in other rooms, only one room needs to purchase the Memory Maker. Everyone who is linked in the Family & Friends list in My Disney Experience will be included in the photos! The owner of the Memory Maker can then download and share the photos with the entire group. So while I think Memory Maker is fantastic for everyone, it REALLY is a great bargain for group trips!

Great Family Photos

I know it is July as I write this, but holiday cards are already on my mind. Memory Maker is perfect for holiday cards! With a little planning, you can even coordinate outfits. Or visit in early November when the parks are decorated to really get the perfect holiday photo!

But even more important than holiday cards that you will send to others, are the photos you keep for yourself. Photos that include everyone – even the family photographer!

You know this one went on the holiday card that year! (Coordinated outfits were unintentional, but effective.)

Fun With Characters

One of my favorite ways to make the most of Memory Maker is with character meets. PhotoPass photographers know exactly the best angles to use and what to say to get great reactions from both characters and kids! Which leaves me free to simply watch and enjoy. They have even been know to coax grins out of reluctant ‘tweens who think they are too cool for characters! Example A:

I love this photo of my son at age 11. He was in a “too cool for characters” phase and Buzz kept trying to get him to dance. He wasn’t having it, but he couldn’t resist smiling!

PhotoPass photographers can also be found at character dining locations. No more jumping out of your seat to try to catch that important Princess photo!

Memory Maker Magic Shots

Okay, pay attention, because this is the BEST PART about PhotoPass and Memory Maker. Keep an eye out for photographers with hand-held cameras. (As opposed to cameras on a tripod.) The photographers can do what are known as “Magic Shots”. These are images that are digitally enhanced after they are taken!

Usually a photographer may give you an example such as “Stand with one hand over your head.” And look what happens!

My husband gets in on the fun!

And just recently, PhotoPass added special photo opportunities in the Magic Kingdom that guests can trigger remotely or with the assistance of a PhotoPass photographer.

Memory Maker Is Worth It

I believe that Memory Maker is worth every penny of the advance price of $169. It is just one more thing that makes it easier for me to “Do Less, Enjoy More.” And that, my friends, is priceless!

What are your favorite parts of Memory Maker? Does it work for your family? Share in the comments below!

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