Memory Maker: All The Reasons You’ll Want It
For anyone planning a trip to Walt Disney Wolrd or Disneyland Resort, Memory Maker is a term you have probably heard. If you are not sure what exactly that is, you can read up on the specifics right here. However, this article isn’t about what Memory Maker is, rather it covers the reasons I always add it to my vacation packages.
I’m No Photographer
While I love getting pictures of my children and capturing special moments on my iPhone, I certainly make no claims to be the next Ansel Adams. While we are on vacation, it’s nice to have someone else worrying about getting the perfect picture. This leaves one less thing for me to worry about and more time to enjoy the vacation.
Who Is That Mom In The Photo?
Another benefit to having someone else take the picture? I can be in it! My phone is full of pictures of my kids, my husband, and a bunch of random screenshots. However, unless it’s an awkward selfie with my kids there are not a whole lot of pictures of me. It’s so nice to know that I’ll be in the picture in front of Cinderella’s Castle with my family.
Excuse Me, Sir…
One of the things I dreaded most before PhotoPass Photographers appeared in the Parks, was stopping random strangers to take pictures for me. I always felt as though I was saying, “Hey! Can you please stop enjoying the magic and step away from your family so you can focus on my family?” Don’t get me wrong, the majority of individuals were always very kind, but it’s so much nicer having photographers designated for this purpose.
Pixie Dust
Most PhotoPass Photographers are equipped to take Magic Shots. If you aren’t familiar, photographers may have you pose in a certain way and later add in a few surprises. Typically these involve placement of some iconic Disney characters such as Tinkerbell, Olaf or Pumba. Of course, if you’re a wiz at photo editing you could try doing this yourself at home, but I personally love the surprise without the extra work.
Show Off Your Coaster Face
Did you know that you can have your pictures taken on select attractions? Some attractions, such as 7 Dwarfs Mine Train, even include video clips from your ride experience. Thanks to the unique camera system, my family has collected some of the best on-ride photos that keep us laughing over the years.
Current attractions that offer ride photos/videos:
- Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin (Magic Kingdom)
- Space Mountain (Magic Kingdom)
- Splash Mountain (Magic Kingdom)
- 7 Dwarfs Mine Train (Magic Kingdom)
- Pirates of the Caribbean (Magic Kingdom)
- Test Track (Epcot)
- Frozen Ever After (Epcot)
- Rock ‘n Roller Coaster (Hollywood Studios)
- Tower of Terror (Hollywood Studios)
- Dinosaur (Animal Kingdom)
- Expedition Everest (Animal Kingdom)
Special Events and Dining
No need to put down your Mickey Waffle to grab the camera. Certain dining experiences have PhotoPass photographers on standby to capture the moment. For example, after finishing your dinner and exploring the West Wing, head into the library for your photo with the Beast (from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast).
There are also special events during which photographers will be on hand such as Jedi Training. It’s so nice to be able to enjoy the moment and watch our daughters take on Darth Vader while someone else is taking the pictures.
In addition, almost all character “meet and greets” throughout the parks come equipped with a photographer. Be sure to check the My Disney Experience App for all current PhotoPass locations during your visit.
The Studio
The PhotoPass Service Studio is a hidden gem that not many people know about. It’s also one of my favorite stops to maximize our Memory Maker. Located in the Marketplace at Disney Springs, the PhotoPass Service Studio is a professional, indoor photo studio with photographers waiting to snap your picture.
Disney’s PhotoPass Studio is located at Disney Springs
Guests are encouraged to stop by and pose for family portraits amongst the large selection of digital backdrops. Choose from a variety of Disney scenes and props to create the perfect photo to place on your mantle. No appointments are needed to stop by the studio and the best part… it’s free! There is no charge to have your pictures taken at the studio and all downloads are included for those who have purchased Memory Maker.
If we can get professional studio portraits, photos around the parks, and videos on select attractions, all for less than what we pay a family photographer… count me in!
In Conclusion
Of course, anyone can have pictures taken by PhotoPass Photographers. Memory Maker is simply the package that allows you to download all those photos and videos. By prepurchasing Memory Maker, you will receive it at the discounted rate of $169. If you wait to add Memory Maker until 3 days prior to your trip or less (including once you’ve returned home), you will need to pay the full price of $199*.
So if you ask me, a Disney lover and goer, Memory Maker is one of the best ways to capture picture-perfect memories for the years to come!
If you’re trying to decide if Memory Maker is right for you and would like assistance with your Disney Vacation planning, let’s chat! I offer a full range of complimentary services from booking resort reservations to dining and FastPasses. In addition, I offer continuous discount monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best available rates! Contact me today at (716) 601-7710, by email mnugent@mickeytravels.com, or on Facebook. Pack your bags and leave the rest to me!
*Pricing and PhotoPass inclusions are subject to change.
Images copyright Disney
