Capture Every Magical Moment with Disney Memory Maker: Is it Worth the Cost?

Heading to Disney for your vacation this year? You might want to consider getting Disney Memory Maker. But what is Memory Maker and how much does it cost? Let’s break it down so you can decide if it’s worth the price to add it to your next trip.

Capture Your Special Moments with Memory Maker

As you can imagine, there are many photo opportunities at Walt Disney World. With Memory Maker, you can have all of those photos digitally downloaded so you can relive the magic again and again!

Memory Maker is also great for those who want to be in the photos, not just behind the camera. There’s no need to hand your phone or camera off to a stranger to snap a photo of you and your family in front of the castle. Instead, you can be in the moment and let Disney’s professional photographers do all the work for you!

What is Disney’s Memory Maker?

Disney Memory Maker is a digital photo package that lets you download all your Disney PhotoPass photos and videos taken by professional photographers throughout the parks. From character meet-and-greets and iconic park backdrops to thrilling ride photos and special effects-filled Magic Shots, Memory Maker ensures you don’t miss a single detail of your Disney adventure.

How Much Does Memory Maker Cost?

Disney Memory Maker does come with a price tag, currently set at $185 when purchased in advance and $210 if purchased during or after your vacation. If you only have a one day visit, there is also a $75 option, although this option is not able to be included with a vacation package. Only one person in your travel party will need to purchase Memory Maker as long as everyone is linked in the My Disney Experience app.

While this might seem steep at first glance, it’s essential to consider what you’re getting in return. With unlimited digital downloads of all your Disney photos and videos, including attraction photos and Magic Shots, the value starts to become apparent, especially for families or groups looking to document their entire Disney experience.

How to Use Memory Maker

There are a few key steps involved in using Disney Maker Maker:

• Purchase: You can purchase Disney Memory Maker with your Disney vacation package, online in advance of your trip, or at Guest Relations locations within the parks. Prices are subject to change, but there is a discount for purchasing in advance.
• Link your My Disney Experience: Connect your Memory Maker purchase to your My Disney Experience account. This ensures all photos taken and scanned with your MagicBand or linked park tickets are automatically linked to your account for download.
• Capture Memories: Strike a pose and smile! Throughout your Disney World adventure, Disney PhotoPass photographers will be stationed at designated locations throughout the parks and some resorts. Simply have them scan your MagicBand or park ticket, and they’ll capture your magical moments.
• Download Memories: After your photos are captured, they’ll be uploaded to your My Disney Experience account. You can then download them to your device at your convenience, allowing you to share them with friends and family, or create cherished keepsakes. It’s important to note that photos will expire 45 days from the date they are taken.

Is Memory Maker Worth It?

This brings us to the important question: is Disney Memory Maker worth the cost? That really depends on your family and how many photos you think you’ll want to download. If you’re the type of family that takes a lot of photos and likes to document your trips with a lot of pictures, Memory Maker is likely a good investment.

However, if you’re not big on taking photos or you think you can get by with just a few snapshots, Memory Maker might not be worth the cost.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether Disney’s Memory Maker is worth the price. But if you think you’ll take advantage of all the photo opportunities Disney has to offer, Memory Maker is a great way to save money and get unlimited digital downloads of all your vacation photos.

If you’re wanting to capture special Disney memories with a private photo session, consider booking one of Disney’s Capture Your Moment options.

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Disney Memory Maker

While Memory Maker offers a convenient way to capture your Disney World vacation, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here are some factors to consider before purchasing:

• Your Budget: Disney Memory Maker does add an extra cost to your vacation. Consider how much you typically spend on souvenirs or printed photos when making your decision.
• Your Photography Habits: Are you comfortable taking your own photos and happy with the quality? If you’re a pro at capturing special moments on your phone or camera, you might decide to skip Memory Maker.

Tips for Using Disney Memory Maker

If you’ve decided to add Memory Maker to your Disney World vacation, here are some tips to maximize your experience:

• Download the My Disney Experience App: This app allows you to easily view and download your photos, as well as check attraction wait times, make reservations for dining, find character meet and greets, and more.
• Smile and Strike a Pose: Don’t be shy. The more enthusiastic you are, the more fun your photos will be.
• Ask About Magic Shots: These special photo effects add an extra layer of Disney magic to your pictures. Photographers will often suggest them at designated locations, but you can ask if the photographer has any.
• Utilize PhotoPass Studios: These studios offer a chance for professional portraits with fun backdrops. They’re a great option for family photos or capturing milestone moments.
• Don’t Forget the Rides: Many popular rides, like Space Mountain and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, have on-ride photos captured by Disney. Remember to keep your eyes open and smile big!
• Capture Character Encounters: Meeting your favorite characters is a highlight for many Disney guests. Memory Maker ensures you have professional photos capturing these special moments with select characters.
• Download Before You Leave: While your photos will be available for a set period after your trip, it’s always best to download them before departing. This ensures you have them safe and sound on your own devices.

Alternatives to Disney Memory Maker

If Disney Memory Maker doesn’t quite fit your budget or travel style, there are alternative ways to capture your Disney World memories:

• Bring Your Own Camera: If you’re comfortable using your own camera, you can capture all your special moments yourself.
• Ask Friends and Family: Don’t be afraid to delegate! Take turns capturing photos with friends and family throughout the day. You’ll get a variety of perspectives and ensure everyone is included in the memories.

Even if you purchase Memory Maker, you still will likely be taking your own photos using your smartphone to capture other memories throughout the parks. Check out this post with tips for taking the best Disney photos with your smartphone.

In the end, whether Disney Memory Maker is worth the cost comes down to personal preference and how you prioritize capturing your Disney memories. For those looking to preserve every smile, laugh, and hug from their Disney vacation, Disney Memory Maker offers a priceless opportunity to relive the magic for years to come. Strike a pose, flash your biggest smile, and let Disney Memory Maker capture the enchantment of your Disney vacation.