Breaking NEWS PHOTO SESSIONS!!!!!! :-)

[gshumaker]

Anyone know what time they stop taking reservations??

[jeffreynmichelle]

I had called earlier in the month and was told the same thing. I was also told that they may let a select few families take pictures but that you would have to sign a model release form so they could use some of the photos to advertise. In the case they do this, the cost for the photo session is free BUT, if we wait and book at AKL upon arrival (the only way to book right now) we would have to pay the higher price and would be subject to the new rules. We currently have a session booked and CD ordered (whew) and, therefor, would not be subjected to the new rules, that is IF they allow u s to have our photographs taken at all. We are holding on to our GF reservations and I am happy that I made them when I did. We will see if AKL works out. If not, we still have the GF appointment booked. :thumbsup2 I am also thankful for the information we receive here on the Dis. :grouphug:

Hmmm...wonder how you could be one of the lucky few families they 'model'? :confused3

[figment82]

What I find fascinating about that is it means they can potentially be pulling in $150 per photographer per hour, and those same photographers probably make somewhere around $10 an hour.
Even when you figure in the cost of equipment, benefits, etc...not a bad profit margin for Disney there!

[cart-mom]

I just booked BC photo shoot for 8/31 6pm and was told it would be $25 since I pre purchased the CD.:cool1: No mention of increase and I wasn't about to ask:rolleyes1 . BTW - I thought it would be all booked up with nothing available being so close but when I asked for anytime between 4-6 he said it was all open. popcorn::

I can't wait :dance3:

[GoofItUp]

Previously the photographer would spend a few minutes going over the pictures after the session and could edit them at that time - zoom in, crop, add borders and such - but those could not be saved to your Park Photopass CD. Not a big deal as I would always do it at home. However, if I'm paying $75 for a photo session, I'm probably going to be going over those edits with the photographer in greater detail and making sure everything I want gets saved to the CD since I won't be able to do it myself. So, it will actually be taking MORE time for the photographer to deal with me AFTER the photo session.

$75 is kind of steep, but I'll probably still do it. I think I've been spoiled to have the same photographer twice (once at GF and once at SSR) who did a FANTASTIC job with my DS and got some really great, professional-looking (IMO) shots of DS and all of us as a family. Probably the first time I go and get just ok shots for $75 I'll be torqued, though!

[got2luvtink]

OMG! I'm so glad I looked at this thread today! I need to call right now and book for Sept., before the price increase! I should have booked a while ago, but I've just been so busy! Could anybody help me? I know this has been asked before, but what is the best time to get pics taken? And does anyone know the number to book for Poly and BC?
Thanks!!!!

[gr8tdame]

Thanks for the heads up. I just booked a photo shoot for Monday Sept 25 @ 5 P.M @ POLY. I was advised to bring a copy of receipt and that the fee would be $25. WooHooo

[parkers*momma]

Ok, just called AKL and made my russie for the photoshoot!

The phone number for those interested is:
407-938-4850

[got2luvtink]

Uggh keep getting transfered to voicemail! Will keep calling...

[got2luvtink]

Thanks for the number parkersmomma!

[clowe247]

I called to get sept 25th photo session at WL and they told me that I have to call back on the 25th, Jason the cm I talked with said reservations booked before the 1st of sept will stay at the same rate. So as of sept 1st the rate will go up. and he said AK will start taking reservations next friday for sept 1st and beyond.:banana:

[parkers*momma]

I called to get sept 25th photo session at WL and they told me that I have to call back on the 25th, Jason the cm I talked with said reservations booked before the 1st of sept will stay at the same rate. So as of sept 1st the rate will go up. and he said AK will start taking reservations next friday for sept 1st and beyond.:banana:

That is totally weird! I just called this evening and booked a shoot for September 16th...Man I hope I have a ressie because I know one lil girl who is going ot be totally disappointed....not to mention one mommy. :)

[zurgswife]

It was just Hubbie and I. She took about 50 all together. They have not been cropped which I plan to do to some of them....I was very happy with the results

http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n307/kcdunlap/wdw%202008/image1434.jpg

http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n307/kcdunlap/wdw%202008/image1433.jpg

Lighting off on the ones inside the DVC lobby area.
http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n307/kcdunlap/wdw%202008/image1424.jpg

Taken right outside the sunroom area.
http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n307/kcdunlap/wdw%202008/image1420.jpg

http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n307/kcdunlap/wdw%202008/image1397.jpg

http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n307/kcdunlap/wdw%202008/image1392.jpg

http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n307/kcdunlap/wdw%202008/Copyofimage1389.jpg

[TPCShauna]

Those are some really wonderful photos of the two of you. I love the colors you wore!

[lilunsure]

Those are awsome pictures. The outfits you have on look fantastic!

[pjstevens]

Oh, I have that dress!!!! What a great idea for our photoshoot! They came out great! Thank you for sharing.

[DiznEeyore]

zurgswife, I have to say I am so impressed with your photos. They are truly the nicest ones I've seen. You are your dh are very photogenic! :goodvibes

[kimsuenew]

It was just Hubbie and I. Dallas was the photographer. She took about 50 all together. They have not been cropped which I plan to do to some of them....I was very happy with the results

http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n307/kcdunlap/wdw%202008/image1434.jpg



Your pictures are wonderful, thank you for sharing! :goodvibes I really like the pose above, you can tell from the genuine smile how much you enjoy/love one another! :lovestruc

[zurgswife]

Those are some really wonderful photos of the two of you. I love the colors you wore!


thanks...I knew I couldn't go with light colors because of my hair. The blues worked really nice.

[heath-and-javens-mom]

Great Pictures- you two look lovely!:goodvibes

[TheDisneyBunch]

Zurgswife.. add me to the list of those who love your photos. You two look so happy in them! Thanks for sharing them. They came out lovely! :thumbsup2

[bear74]

I was just told by a CM that the price increase will go into effect for any shoots booked after the 24th of Aug. I will be able to book tomorrow for our shoot on the 23rd of Sept. and I will get the $25 price.

[daisylove]

Kimball- Great photos!!! Your hair looks great.

So is there still a 30 day out booking limitation?

[macheath]

Zurgswife,

I ,too, wanted to say how nice your pics turned out. The blue shows up so well against the green of the grass and plants. And you both look so relaxed and happy! (unlike me who kept saying out of the side of my mouth, "Act like you like your brother/sister and smile") :rotfl2:

Thanks for sharing your pics....you make a lovely couple!
Heather

[kldmom2000]

We just did the BC photoshoot on Monday literally 4 hours before Fay rolled in and stayed put for the rest of our trip! LOL! :rotfl:

We had an 8am appt. and were brought straight outside-no photos were taken inside at all. Our photographer took about 60 photos.... some with just DH and I, some of just our 2 girls, and most were of the 4 of us. I haven't had a chance to peek at them again since the quick review Monday morning at the desk (we just got home 3 hours ago)

Our photographer said the price IS going up, but didn't specify when or how much. It was $99 for the photopass pre-purchased CD prior to the trip and then $25 for the photoshoot payable in the gift shop that morning.

I'd definitely do it again! :thumbsup2

[dsneygirl]

Great photos at the BC.

[onehotdisneymama]

I just loved your pictures. How lucky you two are to be so in love.Thanks for sharing.:goodvibes

[SpectroMouse]

I booked for Sept. 22 at Beach Club, and it sounds like the prices are still up in the air? I asked what the cost would be and the CM told me $150. I said, but with a pre-purchased CD, it is cheaper isn't it? He said, yes, prices just went up to $50. I said I thought that was going to be effective Sept. 1? He said, oh yea, your cost will be $25, I will make a note of it on your reservation. ?!?!?!? Maybe I should have kept going to see if I could get it free?

Thank goodness for all of you, or I would have had no idea and paid $150 for something that should be $25??? :scared1: Actually, there would be no way I would have done it for $150!

Thanks for all the info!

Sorry for all the confusion, just consider it Cast Member Training:rolleyes1

[gshumaker]

I booked for Sept. 22 at Beach Club, and it sounds like the prices are still up in the air? I asked what the cost would be and the CM told me $150. I said, but with a pre-purchased CD, it is cheaper isn't it? He said, yes, prices just went up to $50. I said I thought that was going to be effective Sept. 1? He said, oh yea, your cost will be $25, I will make a note of it on your reservation. ?!?!?!? Maybe I should have kept going to see if I could get it free?

Thank goodness for all of you, or I would have had no idea and paid $150 for something that should be $25??? :scared1: Actually, there would be no way I would have done it for $150!

Thanks for all the info!

Sorry for all the confusion, just consider it Cast Member Training:rolleyes1

Booked ours last night at the Poly for next week and the CM asked if we knew about the packages available and we told him we had pre-purchased the CD and he said then your price is only $25. I did not ask any more questions for fear of more confusion!!

We were shocked at the availability - on both days we had open they only had 1 booking on one day and 2-3 on the other and the rest was wide open.

[GoofItUp]

zurgswife - great BC shots! Thanks for sharing! The one where the two of you are standing & looking at each other looks like a brochure pic touting couples-only trips!

We're staying at BC with extended family in Mar '09, and I plan to book the photo session there. (Yes, even with the increased cost.)

[parkers*momma]

Booked ours last night at the Poly for next week and the CM asked if we knew about the packages available and we told him we had pre-purchased the CD and he said then your price is only $25. I did not ask any more questions for fear of more confusion!!

We were shocked at the availability - on both days we had open they only had 1 booking on one day and 2-3 on the other and the rest was wide open.


yet Disney is going to raise the price :confused3 :confused3

Sadly that is how any big corporations are...let's make alot of $$ off of a few instead of keeping our prices low, get the word out on the item and make alot of money off many.

If it wasn't for Dis, I would have never know about the CD or photoshoot. It's not even listed...as far as I could find....on their website. I went to Bradk's site to read up on it and many other things that WDW has.

stepping down now :)
thank you for your time :)

And yes, I have booked 2 photoshoots...:lmao:

[zurgswife]

Hubbie liked the whole idea of the CD and the photo shoot he wants to do it again next time. So, we shall see what the cost is next summer.

[Cinderellas Clan]

Call the GF today, as I just got off the phone after making my reservation for Sept., and she told me photo shoots go up to $75 tomorrow, as opposed to the $25 you would pay if you pre-purchased the CD. Book em QUICK!!


http://www.********************/timers/tickers/ou7vrfqh8iphwhxh.png (http://www.********************/timers/)

[CEK40]

:wave2: Hi to all,

I am fairly new to theses boards "love them" :love: and I have a couple questions and am not sure if this is the right place to ask, if not please direct me where I should. I have used the Photo Pass on several trips but never did the pre-purchase. If you pre-purchase Photo Pass do you still get the CD itself, because I like having the actual CD for me. Next, with the Photo Session, DH and I will be at the WL 10/25-11/2 on our first trip "by ourselves" for our Aniversary. :yay: I would like to do the photo session at the WL while we are there, we have so few photos of just us.

So this is my understanding of how it works:
a. You contact the resort that you want to have the session to make a reservation.
b. You don't have to pay for it at the time you make the reservation.
c. If you have pre-ordered the Photo Pass you let them know and then you get a discounted rate on the Resort Session.
d. You can't make reservations prior to 30 of you session.
e. The price of the resort session is suppose to be increasing, soon.

I think that is all I know about it. So do you contact the resort you want to do the shoot at directly? And what is the cost now and what will it be going to with and with the pre-purchase of the Photo Pass?

I am so sorry because I know I have repeated questions that have probably already been asked, but I get so overwhelmed, confused :confused3 and sidetracked with the amount of information on these boards. It is quite addicting! :surfweb: But everyone here is so nice and understanding and full of information. :thumbsup2 Gee I thought I knew a lot about WDW but I really question that now.

Thanks to all your help.:thanks:

[zurgswife]

When you pre purchase you load all your photopass cards on your special account. Then all the pics are combined into one account, you can then edit and put logos and borders on them, then mail you a CD. It's great.

Looks like you have all the details to sign up for the photo session correct also.

[stepdisney]

We got a call back from AKL and we are officially booked. I'm so excited. :cloud9: I'll post pictures when we get back. :thumbsup2

[lissiesmum]

Has anyone posted any pics from the WL yet? I booked our session today for Sept 4! Thank goodness I read this yesterday as she told me how lucky I was because if I hadn't called today, the prices would be going up tomorrow going forward. Thanks for all the good tips everyone!

[niclmac]

We too, just got booked for AKL, and guess what, we arrive on the 23rd of Sept, soooo, today was officially the first day we got to call to book (30 days out). Tomorrow the prices increase, so whew!!! we got in just in time to get it for the 25$!!! I never get this lucky, ever. I just hate it for those who are arriving after us and have to pay the new crazy prices!!!!! :sad2:

[ToyotaKitten]

Has anyone posted any pics from the WL yet? I booked our session today for Sept 4! Thank goodness I read this yesterday as she told me how lucky I was because if I hadn't called today, the prices would be going up tomorrow going forward. Thanks for all the good tips everyone!

yes i have some photos of WL and beach club..... yea prices go up 25th.... so everyone call ASAP

ill post my BC and WL photos soon too

[ToyotaKitten]

SAMPLES OF WILDERNESS LODGE PORTRAITS

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-July2008/DisneyPhotoImage18.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-July2008/DisneyPhotoImage20.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-July2008/DisneyPhotoImage45.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-July2008/DisneyPhotoImage54.jpg

TOTALLY CANDID:

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-July2008/DisneyPhotoImage59.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-July2008/DisneyPhotoImage71.jpg

[stepdisney]

We too, just got booked for AKL, and guess what, we arrive on the 23rd of Sept, soooo, today was officially the first day we got to call to book (30 days out). Tomorrow the prices increase, so whew!!! we got in just in time to get it for the 25$!!! I never get this lucky, ever. I just hate it for those who are arriving after us and have to pay the new crazy prices!!!!! :sad2:

That is soooo funny. I was just thinking that I never get this lucky. So far, I missed out on all of the dates for airline increases like checked bags and assigned seating. I got the emails but didn't check the dates until it was too late and had to pay extra:sad1:. I am so happy to have scored the AKL photo session. Enjoy your trip and don't forget to post your pictures.

[ToyotaKitten]

SAMPLE OF BEACH CLUB PORTRAITS

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-June2008/DisneyPhotoImage11.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-June2008/DisneyPhotoImage12.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-June2008/DisneyPhotoImage28.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-June2008/DisneyPhotoImage44.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-June2008/DisneyPhotoImage49.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-June2008/DisneyPhotoImage1.jpg

[lissiesmum]

[QUOTE=ToyotaKitten;27111878]SAMPLES OF WILDERNESS LODGE PORTRAITS

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-July2008/DisneyPhotoImage18.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a130/toyota_kitten/Personal-Pics/me-and-clint/Disney-Photoshoot-July2008/DisneyPhotoImage20.jpg

thank you so much for posting these pictures! What a beautiful background, and you two make such a lovely couple! Fantastic pictures! What time of day was this? thank you thank you thank you! I can't wait for my photo session now! :banana:

[ToyotaKitten]

[QUOTE=ToyotaKitten;27111878]
thank you so much for posting these pictures! What a beautiful background, and you two make such a lovely couple! Fantastic pictures! What time of day was this? thank you thank you thank you! I can't wait for my photo session now! :banana:

thank you!!!!!!! he makes me look good. in fact when you go to WL you will see these photos pop up on the photopass computer screen savers.... same with BEACH CLUB TOO.

no problem!!! these were around noon it was SUNNY and hot! best time of day is 6, 630 or 7 if you must do it in the morning i suggest EARLIEST...

if its a cloudy day - PERFECT you can do it at anytime. clouds diffuse the sun's light and create natural flesh tones to make you skin look softer.... so if its cloudy don't be discouraged - be excited

[stepdisney]

Are you both cast members? I see that you say these are SAMPLE photos. Did you actually book a session or did you go when they had the cast member photo shoot? They absolutely beautiful. I only hope that ours are as nice as these. Do you have any suggestions for colors for AKL?

[lissiesmum]

[QUOTE=lissiesmum;27112066]

thank you!!!!!!! he makes me look good. in fact when you go to WL you will see these photos pop up on the photopass computer screen savers.... same with BEACH CLUB TOO.

no problem!!! these were around noon it was SUNNY and hot! best time of day is 6, 630 or 7 if you must do it in the morning i suggest EARLIEST...

if its a cloudy day - PERFECT you can do it at anytime. clouds diffuse the sun's light and create natural flesh tones to make you skin look softer.... so if its cloudy don't be discouraged - be excited

Perfect! I booked ours for six pm. I cannot wait, I just hope my DD3 is just as excited as me!!!:cheer2:

[ToyotaKitten]

Are you both cast members? I see that you say these are SAMPLE photos. Did you actually book a session or did you go when they had the cast member photo shoot? They absolutely beautiful. I only hope that ours are as nice as these. Do you have any suggestions for colors for AKL?

he is not, just me. he used to work at tomorrowland attractions, but he left after beign scheduled 60 hours a week 6 days a week and guests yelled at him all the time for lines being too long, kids not being able to go on rides b/c they are too short... etc etc one time he got punched... i would have left too after that poor guy

that's why i didnt go to attractions. lol. yea we booked a session during the special CAST PREVIEW of those resorts. they were free, in return we had to sign a waiver model release to use the photos on screensavers or flyers.
when are you going to AKL??? umm best colors to wear are solid colors. greens and blues are great and white is great too - NO BLACK. some families all buy the disney 2008 shirts and match for their photos. you can wear whatever you want, just stay away from SMALL stripes and POLKA DOTS and anything too busy. i will be opening AKL portraits next week with our new portraiture cast on FRIDAY.... should be fun!

[heath-and-javens-mom]

Thank you soo much for the WL photos...you guys look amazing, the resort looks nice aswell! Our first stay there will be next week and we booked a session. You guys made it look sooo easy!:thumbsup2

[Ducky4Disney]

Now I'm really torn. I was psyched about a photo shoot for $25 - I was going to buy the CD anyway... and even $50 didn't seem too bad - but $75? And I've seen some pics here that are very nice, and some that are not worth paying for at all.

I think we're going to bring the tripod this time around and maybe I should try it instead of paying someone. If I knew I would get a decent photographer I might consider it... but man this is a tough call. $75 for mediocre isn't worth it - and it seems hit or miss.

No one has any SSR examples? I'd love to see some! Encourage me, please!

Any talk of AP, DVC, Disney Visa discounts?

D4D

[parkers*momma]

yes i have some photos of WL and beach club..... yea prices go up 25th.... so everyone call ASAP

ill post my BC and WL photos soon too




Fantastic...I was so worried that we weren't going to get the WL on the 9/24 at the $25.00 price.

if you had to choose between SS, BC, GF...which you be your choice??

[LilGMom]

Now I'm really torn. I was psyched about a photo shoot for $25 - I was going to buy the CD anyway... and even $50 didn't seem too bad - but $75? And I've seen some pics here that are very nice, and some that are not worth paying for at all.

I think we're going to bring the tripod this time around and maybe I should try it instead of paying someone. If I knew I would get a decent photographer I might consider it... but man this is a tough call. $75 for mediocre isn't worth it - and it seems hit or miss.

No one has any SSR examples? I'd love to see some! Encourage me, please!

Any talk of AP, DVC, Disney Visa discounts?

D4D


I feel the same way. We did a GF shoot in May and thought we got some great shots. I'd say about 85% are really good but after hearing and seeing some other peoples' experience I'd say we were lucky. I don't want to pay $175 (photopass cd at today's price plus the photosession) for pictures that aren't going to be better, or in some cases as good as, a department store photosession. At $125 (total price with the cd and shoot) I felt it was a fair deal, now I am not feeling that way at all.

We are going in December at the same time as my SIL/BIL and their three kids and my MIL/FIL and we had planned on doing individual family photoshoots and one as a group but now that is highly doubtful. :confused3

[MamaOfTwoPrincesses]

subbing

[ToyotaKitten]

Fantastic...I was so worried that we weren't going to get the WL on the 9/24 at the $25.00 price.

if you had to choose between SS, BC, GF...which you be your choice??


BC or GF... BUT CALL BEFORE 10 PM TONIGHT.... PRICES GO UP TOMORROW!!!!!!!

[ToyotaKitten]

I feel the same way. We did a GF shoot in May and thought we got some great shots. I'd say about 85% are really good but after hearing and seeing some other peoples' experience I'd say we were lucky. I don't want to pay $175 (photopass cd at today's price plus the photosession) for pictures that aren't going to be better, or in some cases as good as, a department store photosession. At $125 (total price with the cd and shoot) I felt it was a fair deal, now I am not feeling that way at all.

We are going in December at the same time as my SIL/BIL and their three kids and my MIL/FIL and we had planned on doing individual family photoshoots and one as a group but now that is highly doubtful. :confused3


hmmmmmm to shed soem light on this subject that WE KNEW might have guests getting upset at us....

well like i explained to one person already. our guests were getting the photo sessions basically free before, b/c they were taking advantage of the idea that if they are getting the park cd anyway - they might as well get the photosession since its included in the price of the park CD (we fulfil more PURCHASE AT PARK CDs, than pre-ordered CDs) - so they got our photos free.

therefore our portrait photographers had no value compared to regular park photographers. PLUS we are wayyyyy cheaper than most professional studios. and any that are cheaper you don't get the copywrite NOR CD, you pay a session fee then you are only able to pick out a few photos for a package deal. AND places like walmart, glamour shots, school pix, use the cheesey backdrops (some of our photographers used to work for studios like that). But we use our surround DISNEY ENVIRONMENT that the IMAGINEERS CREATED. we use REAL flowers, REAL setting, REAL rocks, REAl bridges, CINDERELLAS CASTLE CAN BE IN THE BACK OF YOUR PHOTO IF YOU DO IT AT POLY. things like that.

you are not paying a studio for a basic portrait. you are paying Disney for a potrait in a Natural setting, with Disney flair. if you don't care much for Disney - don't do it. but if you are that passionate about Disney, its well worth it. We are still cheaper than most studios. so we are trying to bring us up to a market value.

and if you get your photos and they are not good....tell us. but our portrait photographers are the best and are HAND PICKED BY A GROUP OF MANAGERS and are trained to USE different settings than what they use in the parks. i am one of the new cast members for the PORTRAITS CREW... i was transferred in JUNE to PORTRAITS... and trust me these prices have made me want to make sure i am at the top of my game. however these higher prices are giving US - the Photographers - more value than the park photographers... which is well earned for what we are required to do in this new role.

[parkers*momma]

OK...now I am bummed. I called yesterday and was told to book on 9/24 I had to call back today. Today, I called WL for an appointment on 9/24 and was told to call back tomorrow because they don't have sept. 24 schedule...even tho today is my 30 day mark. :(


Don't that bite :(

[Jennyvelaz]

OK...now I am bummed. I called yesterday and was told to book on 9/24 I had to call back today. Today, I called WL for an appointment on 9/24 and was told to call back tomorrow because they don't have sept. 24 schedule...even tho today is my 30 day mark. :(


Don't that bite :(

I just booked poly on the 24th....today. The 24th is the last day you can get the $25 price. I tried to book the 27th and she said it would cost more.:confused3

[grumpysmrs]

Ok I have a poly photo session scheduled. How do I order the CD in advance when I don't have a photopass number?:confused3

[parkers*momma]

I just booked poly on the 24th....today. The 24th is the last day you can get the $25 price. I tried to book the 27th and she said it would cost more.:confused3

I know..isn't that silly! She just kept sightiing that they (WL) don't have a sept 24 schedule and I would have to call tomorrow. When I questioned her about the increase she said yes, it would be at the higher rate and there isn't anything she can do.

I'm calling back....lol...unlimited long distance and I have the patience so I'll just keep calling on the hour until maybe someone will book me.:lmao:

[parkers*momma]

ok...just called them again and it is a no go. Valerie said they can not take ressies for the 9/24 until 8/25 but she would put it on a sticky for them to enter tomorrow morning. When I questioned her about the $25.00 price, she said I would be charged the higher price.

[DiznEeyore]

hmmmmmm to shed soem light on this subject that WE KNEW might have guests getting upset at us....

well like i explained to one person already. our guests were getting the photo sessions basically free before, b/c they were taking advantage of the idea that if they are getting the park cd anyway - they might as well get the photosession since its included in the price of the park CD (we fulfil more PURCHASE AT PARK CDs, than pre-ordered CDs) - so they got our photos free.

therefore our portrait photographers had no value compared to regular park photographers. PLUS we are wayyyyy cheaper than most professional studios. and any that are cheaper you don't get the copywrite NOR CD, you pay a session fee then you are only able to pick out a few photos for a package deal. AND places like walmart, glamour shots, school pix, use the cheesey backdrops (some of our photographers used to work for studios like that). But we use our surround DISNEY ENVIRONMENT that the IMAGINEERS CREATED. we use REAL flowers, REAL setting, REAL rocks, REAl bridges, CINDERELLAS CASTLE CAN BE IN THE BACK OF YOUR PHOTO IF YOU DO IT AT POLY. things like that.

you are not paying a studio for a basic portrait. you are paying Disney for a potrait in a Natural setting, with Disney flair. if you don't care much for Disney - don't do it. but if you are that passionate about Disney, its well worth it. We are still cheaper than most studios. so we are trying to bring us up to a market value.

and if you get your photos and they are not good....tell us. but our portrait photographers are the best and are HAND PICKED BY A GROUP OF MANAGERS and are trained to USE different settings than what they use in the parks. i am one of the new cast members for the PORTRAITS CREW... i was transferred in JUNE to PORTRAITS... and trust me these prices have made me want to make sure i am at the top of my game. however these higher prices are giving US - the Photographers - more value than the park photographers... which is well earned for what we are required to do in this new role.

ToyotaKitten, I really appreciate your perspective on this and I thank you for taking the time to post here.

For many of us, our objection to the higher price comes in the non-professional quality of so many of the photos. In fact, the samples you posted yesterday (that you obviously didn't take because you were in them ;) ) had many shadows and sunspots that a truly trained professional photographer would have/should have noticed and compensated for, either with fill flash or by simply moving the subjects to a slightly different location. It would also be nice to not see random strangers in the backgrounds of the photos or trees, fountains, lighthouses, etc. appearing to "grow" out of people's heads. ;) Again, those are things a professional should notice when posing his or her subjects.

I say that not to insult you or with any disrespect to you or your colleagues, but rather to communicate where the dissatisfaction comes from. My husband is a professional photographer and I've worked with him for over a decade, so I feel very comfortable in my assessments of the photos.

I have to say that the ones zurgswife posted a couple of days ago from the BC were fantastic, and well worth a $75 fee. Some of the others -- a lot of the others -- not so much. The value just isn't there when you look at the quality.

I hope I haven't offended you ... I just wanted to let you see things from a customer's point of view. :)

[parkers*momma]

ok....I give up on WL and I really really REALLY wanted WL....we loved the country/rustic setting.

Soooo upon recommendation...I called BC and got right in without any problems. Now to rethink our outfits...lol

BTW...it was for the $25 rate so that works too.

[DiznEeyore]

Ok I have a poly photo session scheduled. How do I order the CD in advance when I don't have a photopass number?:confused3

You don't need a number. Do you have the preorder link from earlier in this thread? If you go through that, just don't fill in the blank where it asks for the number. You obviously won't have that yet.

The form asks the same kinds of questions as if you were ordering PhotoPass products after your trip. Just go through and place the order for the CD (99.95) and it will give you a receipt (and send you an email) for the preorder. Just make sure to take that with you to WDW.

They'll then send you a second email with the code you need to enter when you do finally order your CD. Do not delete that email! ;)

When you get home from your trip, you'll go to the PhotoPass site, enter your card number(s), and go from there. At the end when it's time to order, you'll enter the code that gets sent to you in the email and it will take care of the cost of the CD.

HTH! :)

[grumpysmrs]

You don't need a number. Do you have the preorder link from earlier in this thread? If you go through that, just don't fill in the blank where it asks for the number. You obviously won't have that yet.

The form asks the same kinds of questions as if you were ordering PhotoPass products after your trip. Just go through and place the order for the CD (99.95) and it will give you a receipt (and send you an email) for the preorder. Just make sure to take that with you to WDW.

They'll then send you a second email with the code you need to enter when you do finally order your CD. Do not delete that email! ;)

When you get home from your trip, you'll go to the PhotoPass site, enter your card number(s), and go from there. At the end when it's time to order, you'll enter the code that gets sent to you in the email and it will take care of the cost of the CD.

HTH! :)

I must not be searching right....I can't find the link.....

[DiznEeyore]

I must not be searching right....I can't find the link.....

Here you go:

http://www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitcdplan.aspx

:goodvibes

[mainstreet1997]

Is this the same as the Disney "Family Portrait Package" that DVC members get 10 percent off of in the "portable perks book"?

[Cheesehead66]

We just got back today, here's one of the pics from our Poly shoot. Didn't order the CD yet so we don't have more photos. We were able to get this one printed when our Visa meet & greet photos didn't come through by the time we left Epcot.


http://i461.photobucket.com/albums/qq337/dandonnanick28/Disney2008.jpg

We were happy overall with the session, it was at 6 PM. The only thing I wasn't happy about was we didn't get a shot with the castle in the background. It's really my fault for not requesting it, I didn't realize it until later, so if you have a session coming up there be sure to request it.
:goodvibes

[zurgswife]

ToyotaKitten, I really appreciate your perspective on this and I thank you for taking the time to post here.

For many of us, our objection to the higher price comes in the non-professional quality of so many of the photos. In fact, the samples you posted yesterday (that you obviously didn't take because you were in them ;) ) had many shadows and sunspots that a truly trained professional photographer would have/should have noticed and compensated for, either with fill flash or by simply moving the subjects to a slightly different location. It would also be nice to not see random strangers in the backgrounds of the photos or trees, fountains, lighthouses, etc. appearing to "grow" out of people's heads. ;) Again, those are things a professional should notice when posing his or her subjects.

I say that not to insult you or with any disrespect to you or your colleagues, but rather to communicate where the dissatisfaction comes from. My husband is a professional photographer and I've worked with him for over a decade, so I feel very comfortable in my assessments of the photos.

I have to say that the ones zurgswife posted a couple of days ago from the BC were fantastic, and well worth a $75 fee. Some of the others -- a lot of the others -- not so much. The value just isn't there when you look at the quality.

I hope I haven't offended you ... I just wanted to let you see things from a customer's point of view. :)


I have to agree with your assessment. I have seen many of the photo posted and had very low non professional expectation but it was a fun thing to do and get photos of both hubbie and myself.

We were very fortunate that we got a semi professional photographer - she has her own business and gave us a card to see her own work and it was very comparable to the pics she took at Disney. She works for Disney to get the perks. Her husband makes the money but loves to play golf and she has a mother that loves Disney. She works part time two days a week to be able to give her Hubby great golf courses and her mom lots of Disney time. Her hourly rate is laughable compared to what she bills for her private work.

My hubby is a hobbiest with regards to photograph. He knew right off the bat she new what she was doing. She even admitted that though the screen seemed tough to get the job, there was a wide variety of skill levels among the photoshoot photographers.

[DiznEeyore]

Cheesehead66, what a great shot! :thumbsup2

[bear74]

SO I booked my Poly shoot yesterday. I have a shoot scheduled Sept. 23 at 9:30 am

[pinkerbell]

ToyotaKitten, I really appreciate your perspective on this and I thank you for taking the time to post here.

For many of us, our objection to the higher price comes in the non-professional quality of so many of the photos. In fact, the samples you posted yesterday (that you obviously didn't take because you were in them ;) ) had many shadows and sunspots that a truly trained professional photographer would have/should have noticed and compensated for, either with fill flash or by simply moving the subjects to a slightly different location. It would also be nice to not see random strangers in the backgrounds of the photos or trees, fountains, lighthouses, etc. appearing to "grow" out of people's heads. ;) Again, those are things a professional should notice when posing his or her subjects.

I say that not to insult you or with any disrespect to you or your colleagues, but rather to communicate where the dissatisfaction comes from. My husband is a professional photographer and I've worked with him for over a decade, so I feel very comfortable in my assessments of the photos.

I have to say that the ones zurgswife posted a couple of days ago from the BC were fantastic, and well worth a $75 fee. Some of the others -- a lot of the others -- not so much. The value just isn't there when you look at the quality.

I hope I haven't offended you ... I just wanted to let you see things from a customer's point of view. :)

Toyota Kitten - Thanks for posting, I am sure I would be more than satisified if u were to be our photographer. It is obvious you take great pride in your work/profession and I am glad Disney has you as an employee.. truly someone who adds Magic to any diseny experience.

DizneEyore - You really expressed many points very well. $25 was a reasonable price for the photos that we had taken last yr but not a penny more, many were so dark you could barely make us out. We had a late appointment and it was getting dark, they were also running late. We were also rushed around so fast we could barely keep up, Our photographer wouldnt even wait until we could all fit in the same elevator and we lost her .. thus rushing us even more. We were certianly not relaxed. Knowing this now we would have made an earlier appt, but for $75.00 it is just not worth the gamble. Along with the higher price comes higher expectations of which I do not feel the majority of photographers can meet. So yesterday, the photoshoot was deleted from our itinerary.
Most digital cameras have a timer now and u can by a mini tripod for 3.99 at the local Big Lots, we got some very nice pics from our last beach vacation using the timer even without the tripod, beach pails and benches worked just fine. :lmao:

[cel_disney]

I just booked my shoot at BC for Sept. 24th. When I called this afternoon originally, the main photopass desk told me that I could book for any time during my stay even though it wasnt in the 30 day range (I wanted the 27th). Of course, when I called the direct line to book this - they could only book to the 24th.

SOOOOO, I booked for an appointment on the 24th (which could work plan wise so its not a total loss), but the CM told me that it was marked in 'yellow' and that I should be able to call back and reschedule and retain the reduced rate price! We'll see what happens! I definitely dont need to do this with the increased price, but if we can still do it for 25$, it could make for a nice Christmas gift for my in-laws because all of the kids will be together!

[brunette8706]

Originally Posted by princessreilly
I thought that I had posted pictures on here, but not seeing them. Here are a few from GF. I can't wait to see some from the Poly. Please share when you get them!


**
Those shots are very classic! Love the clothing choices! It reminds me of what you see in upscale photography studios.

:thumbsup2

[brunette8706]

How beautiful! I hate to take time away from the parks to do this, but I think I will! I just love your clothing choices! I think we might have to copy that:bitelip: I certainly hope you have that family shot up and framed somewhere in your home, its just beautiful! BTW, we also have a boy and a girl, the dd is older, so maybe I can see in your pics what I want mine to be like;)

Just GORGEOUS!

[LilGMom]

hmmmmmm to shed soem light on this subject that WE KNEW might have guests getting upset at us....

well like i explained to one person already. our guests were getting the photo sessions basically free before, b/c they were taking advantage of the idea that if they are getting the park cd anyway - they might as well get the photosession since its included in the price of the park CD (we fulfil more PURCHASE AT PARK CDs, than pre-ordered CDs) - so they got our photos free.

therefore our portrait photographers had no value compared to regular park photographers. PLUS we are wayyyyy cheaper than most professional studios. and any that are cheaper you don't get the copywrite NOR CD, you pay a session fee then you are only able to pick out a few photos for a package deal. AND places like walmart, glamour shots, school pix, use the cheesey backdrops (some of our photographers used to work for studios like that). But we use our surround DISNEY ENVIRONMENT that the IMAGINEERS CREATED. we use REAL flowers, REAL setting, REAL rocks, REAl bridges, CINDERELLAS CASTLE CAN BE IN THE BACK OF YOUR PHOTO IF YOU DO IT AT POLY. things like that.

you are not paying a studio for a basic portrait. you are paying Disney for a potrait in a Natural setting, with Disney flair. if you don't care much for Disney - don't do it. but if you are that passionate about Disney, its well worth it. We are still cheaper than most studios. so we are trying to bring us up to a market value.

and if you get your photos and they are not good....tell us. but our portrait photographers are the best and are HAND PICKED BY A GROUP OF MANAGERS and are trained to USE different settings than what they use in the parks. i am one of the new cast members for the PORTRAITS CREW... i was transferred in JUNE to PORTRAITS... and trust me these prices have made me want to make sure i am at the top of my game. however these higher prices are giving US - the Photographers - more value than the park photographers... which is well earned for what we are required to do in this new role.

I wouldn't say that the Resort Photographers had no more value than the Photopass ones before the price increase, our photographer was great to work with but there were still pictures that someone with a bit more experience, or maybe just more alloted time, would have staged differently. There is one pretty good picture of all of us near a banister and it looks like there is a lightpost growing out of my head. In some of the pictures the sun was so bad in our eyes that we had to keep them shut, she counted to three and we'd open them while she snapped the picture before we all sneezed.

We live in a beach community and once paid a photographer $100 to meet us at the beach to take pictures of our four families together. We got all of the proofs from that and he spent about an hour with us. The pictures were pretty good, not great but good, and we didn't feel rushed since we had him for an hour. If I'm paying someone (WDW or a private photographer) $175 (which is the cost if I preorder the cd and get the photosession) I would like to have more than 30 minutes with them, not feel rushed and know that I'm getting someone that is going to give us well staged pictures. When you are paying anywhere between $75 or $175 for a 30 minute photosession I think that is a bit much.

[wendylovesdisney]

So is it 75.00 if you want it on your cd? Or just for the photosession? If I prepurchase the cd how much am I paying, because I am getting it confused.

[HALEYSMOMMOM]

So is it 75.00 if you want it on your cd? Or just for the photosession? If I prepurchase the cd how much am I paying, because I am getting it confused.

99 for preordering the cd+75 for the photo session at resort=175.00

[HALEYSMOMMOM]

Maybe I misssed this on here, but BradK has some interesting things on his site with regard to the new changes. For one, you won't be able to have both park photos and photo session photos on your cd (Ithink) and the enhancements for the sesions will not be available. I hope this hasn't already started..... We are going for our session on 9-7 and of course got the $25 price, but I would like to be able to add enhancements....

Also, how much now for more than one session? it has been $50 after your first session, is it $100 now?

[Kiki Lime]

Yep, called this morning to book my session for 9/24 and it is indeed now $75, regardless of whether you preorder the cd. I'm really bummed. I went ahead and booked the session, but I might cancel instead. I think DH and I are just going to bring a mini tripod instead and save some moolah.

[wendylovesdisney]

I called GF and they told me it will be 75.00 to add the pics to my photopass and the Poly desk said it would cost me another 150.00 "because they were 2 discs" - I don't think they know what they are talking about...

Can't beleive I missed ordering this for Sept 23rd - 1 day late after the increase!

[Ducky4Disney]

I also want to say thanks to ToyotaKitten for sticking her neck out on this thread - I really appreciate seeing the other side to this. I think most of us are in agreement that $75 would be worthwhile for 30 minutes *IF* the pictures taken were of a higher caliber - but they just aren't. OR - $75 might me reasonable for 45 minutes with the current pic quality; you'd be less rushed and get more pics which increases the chances of getting good ones instead of mediocre ones.

I am not a professional photographer but I'll go out on a limb and say that I know more about photography than many WDW patrons. Take a look back at some of the photos posted here - backlit pics with no fill flash, washed out colors with improper white balance, placing subjects outdoors in shadows, blurry pics! Do I want to gamble $75 that I'll a Photog like you who has a clue and will do a good job? Would you?

The fact that people were getting the Resort Photos as a benefit with the PP CD doesn't make you less valued - and the fact that they were basically free probably wasn't impacting your salary. Raising the prices isn't going to boost your wages either - Disney is just going to make more profit from your work. They *may* start hiring more experienced photographers, incerase the time spent, or start looking at the quality of the experience at these higher rates when people stop booking the sessions and complain about the quality of the service provided.

I'm back and forth about the whole thing. One second I want to try, another second I'm tempted to setup my D200 on a tripod, and yet another second I'm thinking maybe I can get GDad to take some for me! In the end I think I wll do this - even for $75 - but I plan to review my pics carefully and if they're not good enough I will let Disney know.

D4D

[pjstevens]

ok, I already preordered my cd and made my appointment. Some one tell me that I am goign to be able to add my photos to that same cd without no additional cost!!! PLEASE!!!

[Kiki Lime]

ok, I already preordered my cd and made my appointment. Some one tell me that I am goign to be able to add my photos to that same cd without no additional cost!!! PLEASE!!!

When did you make your appointment? If it was before today, your session will cost you $25. If it was today, it will be $75. You won't be able to add your photos to your cd for no cost as the sessions are no longer free. Hope that answers your question!

[pjstevens]

When did you make your appointment? If it was before today, your session will cost you $25. If it was today, it will be $75. You won't be able to add your photos to your cd for no cost as the sessions are no longer free. Hope that answers your question!

I already made my appointment a couple weeks ago (my visit is 9/13). Last year we just paid the $25 when we checked in and when they were done they put all our photos on photopass. Will that be the same this time, since I got in before the increase?

[bear74]

So is it 75.00 if you want it on your cd? Or just for the photosession? If I prepurchase the cd how much am I paying, because I am getting it confused.

the CM I talked to on Friday said that it would be 75 for the shoot and they burn those pictures to a CD for you right their.

[Ohana90]

I called the line yesturday to inquire about the increase and this is the information I rcvd. (called 3 seperate times)

If you pre-order the CD for $99.00 then the sitting fee is $75.00. The pictures will be on another CD, not with your Park pictures and NO enhancements. I was going to order it but due to the increase and no enhancements I am better off taking them myself. Oh well. No biggie. I'll be at the poly anyway for the breakfast so I'll just roam around and snap my own shots. :thumbsup2

[Ducky4Disney]

I called the line yesturday to inquire about the increase and this is the information I rcvd. (called 3 seperate times)

If you pre-order the CD for $99.00 then the sitting fee is $75.00. The pictures will be on another CD, not with your Park pictures and NO enhancements.

Wait a minute - so now we're paying more and getting less? :mad:

I know I shouldn't be surprised by this, it is Disney afterall, but that SUCKS! Now that they don't offer enhancements and are burning your disc on the spot are they giving you any prints with it? Before, if you got the disc right away instead of with your prepaid PP CD you got like 3 5x7's or something. That's a rhetorical question really - I know they're not giving us anymore for the money.

OK - so who do I have to write to about this? Anyone have an e-mail address or phone number? This is ridiculous.

D4D

[Ohana90]

Wait a minute - so now we're paying more and getting less? :mad:

I know I shouldn't be surprised by this, it is Disney afterall, but that SUCKS! Now that they don't offer enhancements and are burning your disc on the spot are they giving you any prints with it? Before, if you got the disc right away instead of with your prepaid PP CD you got like 3 5x7's or something. That's a rhetorical question really - I know they're not giving us anymore for the money.

OK - so who do I have to write to about this? Anyone have an e-mail address or phone number? This is ridiculous.

D4D

I am uncertain if they are selling photos, I only inquired about the pre-order since I had already purchased one. Might want to check out Brad's site...stitch kingdom.

[Marshay]

I did one of the photopass sessions at the GF (Sep 07 - FREE w/CD purchase!!) and the Poly (May 08 -- $25 w/CD purchase) and had been a great proponent of doing this. The value of the pictures compared to the cost was really good (see previous posts for pics).

Both times we walked away with 1 or 2 great photos; 3-4 really good photos and the rest which were anywhere from good-ok-fair... and a few really bad photos (shadows, lighting, etc). With edits, borders and titles, it was even better.

However, after reading about the increase, I cannot recommend the photosessions any longer. The cost of $75 (plus the $100 CD) for just 20 -30 minutes really is quite expensive compared to the value of the photos.

My experience (with only 2 photographers plus seeing photos on this thread) shows that Disney is not ready to enter the "professional studio" photography business for these Photopass sessions. They are improving but to be rushed through the photos in less than 30 minutes, having many photos that won't work -- shading, lighting, people in background, etc, is not good photo business.

I'm extremely disappointed in Disney but understand that they seem more interested in making money on this than providing a worthy and valueable product to all/almost all families.

The cost is too high for the average family to afford and the value does not hold. $25 is reasonable...maybe as much as $40. But unless Disney increases the time to at least 45 minutes or an hour and improves on the quality of the photos, I cannot see paying more than that.

I will no longer recommend this to my friends and family.:sad2:

[Ohana90]

Wait a minute - so now we're paying more and getting less? :mad:

I know I shouldn't be surprised by this, it is Disney afterall, but that SUCKS! Now that they don't offer enhancements and are burning your disc on the spot are they giving you any prints with it? Before, if you got the disc right away instead of with your prepaid PP CD you got like 3 5x7's or something. That's a rhetorical question really - I know they're not giving us anymore for the money.

OK - so who do I have to write to about this? Anyone have an e-mail address or phone number? This is ridiculous.

D4D

Pulled this from Brads site. Hope it clarifiys for everyone.

"" Please note that as of August 23, 2008, Portrait sessions at the resorts are a separate entity from the Disney's PhotoPass system in the theme parks. While both Parks and Portraits use the same system for their photos, they are separate products. As such, the pricing structure has changed dramatically. There is no longer a discount specifically for guests who pre-order Disney's PhotoPass. Guests who pre-order the PhotoCD or purchase it within the theme parks can reserve a Portraits session for $74.95 with proof of purchase (either email or receipt). Guests wishing to purchase only the Portraits session on CD can do so for $149.95. Alternatively guests who purchase the Portraits session but then wish to combine photos from the Parks may do so by bringing their CD and PhotoPass cards to any resort location for a fee of $49.95 (bringing the total to roughly $200). Note that Disney's PhotoPass enhancements will not be available for Portrait session photos or any photos from the theme parks combined with it. Additionally, guests will no longer have the option of receiving their Portrait session photos on a Disney's PhotoPass card.""

[Marshay]

I called the line yesturday to inquire about the increase and this is the information I rcvd. (called 3 seperate times)

If you pre-order the CD for $99.00 then the sitting fee is $75.00. The pictures will be on another CD, not with your Park pictures and NO enhancements. I was going to order it but due to the increase and no enhancements I am better off taking them myself. Oh well. No biggie. I'll be at the poly anyway for the breakfast so I'll just roam around and snap my own shots. :thumbsup2

Oh, and now you can't even do the enhancements??? This was one of the HUGE benefits to doing the CD.

I repeat...this is not worth it anymore and I will not recommend to my family, friends and DISboarders.

[janloz]

Pulled this from Brads site. Hope it clarifiys for everyone.

"" Please note that as of August 23, 2008, Portrait sessions at the resorts are a separate entity from the Disney's PhotoPass system in the theme parks. While both Parks and Portraits use the same system for their photos, they are separate products. As such, the pricing structure has changed dramatically. There is no longer a discount specifically for guests who pre-order Disney's PhotoPass. Guests who pre-order the PhotoCD or purchase it within the theme parks can reserve a Portraits session for $74.95 with proof of purchase (either email or receipt). Guests wishing to purchase only the Portraits session on CD can do so for $149.95. Alternatively guests who purchase the Portraits session but then wish to combine photos from the Parks may do so by bringing their CD and PhotoPass cards to any resort location for a fee of $49.95 (bringing the total to roughly $200). Note that Disney's PhotoPass enhancements will not be available for Portrait session photos or any photos from the theme parks combined with it. Additionally, guests will no longer have the option of receiving their Portrait session photos on a Disney's PhotoPass card.""

We won't be doing our planned session in Dec now, not at those prices :eek: We will just use the photopass ALOT more in the parks.

[Marshay]

We won't be doing our planned session in Dec now, not at those prices :eek: We will just use the photopass ALOT more in the parks.

This seems like the better way to go -- definitely!

Also, make sure you get to the "roving Photographers" in the parks (if they still do this). We were in Mexico and the guy took some pics in front of the pyramid, then we went over to the water, then we got pics with sombreros on in front of the outside store...also saw someone taking pics in the green foliage.

These pictures don't feel as "staged" and got really good!

[Ducky4Disney]

BTW: does anyone know if the pre-order option is still available? I was just at the PhotoPass site and didn't see it. Can anyone confirm this or let me know what I'm missing?

That would make a PPCD $125 and a resort portrait session $75 for a $200 total. Two separate discs and no enhancements on the resrot session.

Or $150 for a separate resort session only - still no enhancements.

Or $150 for a resort portrait session and $50 to later add your PP pics to that CD - a $200 total - and still no enhancements (on anything for that deal it seems).

Based on those numbers I am under the impression that the $99 pre-order is gone for now. Which means I will still buy the CD (shame on me for not ordering it earlier - I'll pay the $25 as a lesson-learned) and I WILL NOT be doing the SSR photo session.

I have a tripod and I know how to use it!

D4D

[Marshay]

Did you use this link?

http://www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitcdplan.aspx

[fairestoneofall]

I cannot believe that Disney has raised the price of this. That really makes it over-priced and not worth it. I've said it on other threads, that I wish that Disney would hire true professional photographers to do this. I don't consider people with experience in department store studio photography to be pros either. They are merely trained to press a button and most don't have any real experience.

Sunspots and bright sunlight are not acceptable. Under-exposed images and those with white balance issues are not acceptable. Out-of-focus images are not acceptable. Most of what I've seen just looks like it was shot on one of the Automatic settings (and by that, I mean full Auto or Portrait and such, which are NOT Manual settings). These sessions have such potential if Disney would bring in photographers who understand posing, composition, proper exposure, aperture/shutter speed/ISO, lighting, etc.

Instead, it seems that, because of the low price, these sessions are popular. So, Disney opens up more resorts, triples the price and lessons the offerings (no enhancements) with no real change to the quality of photographers. And that's unfortunate.

No thanks. I'll be bringing my tripod on my November trip and setting my camera to timer. :thumbsup2

[Ducky4Disney]

Did you use this link?

http://www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitcdplan.aspx

Ah-ha, I was not using that link. Very helpful - let me order this sucker now before it does go away! I just went to the PhotoPass website and looked for "special offers" like I did a month ago to find that deal. I couldn't find it just by looking at the site... hmmm.

D4D

[HALEYSMOMMOM]

Does anyone know if we got in on the old deal ($25 ) if we can still have everything on one cd and do enhancements without any additional costs? Just like it used to be???

[TyRy]

Count us as ones that had planned on doing this, but now that the price has gone up you can no longer add to your photopass CD and the enhancments are gone, we'll just be using our camera and the roving photopass photogs. We had some really cute shots with them last time, just thought this might be nice since we are going with DIL's. Not worth it now.

Ty

[Ducky4Disney]

It will be interesting to see if bookings for this suddenly fall off...

D4D

PS - for those that have had a portrait session all ready, see my poll!
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1931302

[grumpysmrs]

Here you go:

http://www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitcdplan.aspx

:goodvibes

Thanks for the link, my folder of printouts is getting bigger and bigger.:rotfl:

[PrincessTiffany]

Count us as ones that had planned on doing this, but now that the price has gone up you can no longer add to your photopass CD and the enhancments are gone, we'll just be using our camera and the roving photopass photogs. We had some really cute shots with them last time, just thought this might be nice since we are going with DIL's. Not worth it now.

Ty
Add us to the list too. We were going to do a photoshoot at WL and GF in December, but not now, it's no longer a good deal. Oh well!

[Kiki Lime]

I am SO disappointed now. I was really looking forward to this, but the price is really upsetting me. My DH is reviewing the pics on this thread now to see if the deal is worth it, so I'm going to wait for him to decide before I call back and cancel my 9/24 booking at GF. I really have lost all desire to do it now. For the cost of a cheap tripod, my DH and I can get picks taken with our brand new SLR and probably get some decent photos that way instead of this junk Disney is trying to pass off.

[KIRSTIN'S MOMMY]

I booked a photo session at the BC for Sept. 14th yesterday, and the cm that I spoke to said that I would still get the old price ($125) and still be able to put my photopass pics on the cd since I mentioned it and the change didn't take effect until today.

[Marshay]

It will be interesting to see if bookings for this suddenly fall off...

D4D


I sure hope bookings fall -- that's the only way Disney will listen. But I suspect there will still be enough folks to do it and with the higher price tag, they don't need as many now.

I bet they figure out a way to bring the enhancements back, though...to me, that is nearly as important as quality since I could always "hide" some imperfections with a title or border or character...

[Marshay]

It will be interesting to see if bookings for this suddenly fall off...

D4D

PS - for those that have had a portrait session all ready, see my poll!
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1931302

Forgot to add -- I'm definitely interested in the "informal" results of this poll. I voted!

[Marshay]

I booked a photo session at the BC for Sept. 14th yesterday, and the cm that I spoke to said that I would still get the old price ($125) and still be able to put my photopass pics on the cd since I mentioned it and the change didn't take effect until today.

That's great news for you!!!

Did you get it in writing?? ;)

[J&K'sPrincessMommy]

I am so dissappointed- for $200 to get something that up until reecntly cost $125 and you got so much more with that $125 then you do now at $200 :( And not be guaranteed something great... :confused3

We had planned to do a photo shoot this Dec in WL, but now I just cannot justify $200 to just cross my fingers we get at least 1 good shot. I will do the same as a privious Dis'er said and will use the park photog's a lot more :goodvibes

[KIRSTIN'S MOMMY]

That's great news for you!!!

Did you get it in writing?? ;)

No, but I did make sure to make notes on who I spoke with and write everything I asked him down, just in case! I'm planning to use hopefully at least one good shot for our Christmas cards. We have AP's and they're doing a 20% off deal if you order PhotoPass cards so I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

[mickeymyfavorite]

ok, I already preordered my cd and made my appointment. Some one tell me that I am goign to be able to add my photos to that same cd without no additional cost!!! PLEASE!!!

From my past experience YOU ARE able to add whatever park photo's the photopass team took during your vacation. you should just call and confirm, and let us know:thumbsup2

[TheDisneyBunch]

I cannot believe that Disney has raised the price of this. That really makes it over-priced and not worth it. I've said it on other threads, that I wish that Disney would hire true professional photographers to do this. I don't consider people with experience in department store studio photography to be pros either. They are merely trained to press a button and most don't have any real experience.

Sunspots and bright sunlight are not acceptable. Under-exposed images and those with white balance issues are not acceptable. Out-of-focus images are not acceptable. Most of what I've seen just looks like it was shot on one of the Automatic settings (and by that, I mean full Auto or Portrait and such, which are NOT Manual settings). These sessions have such potential if Disney would bring in photographers who understand posing, composition, proper exposure, aperture/shutter speed/ISO, lighting, etc.

Instead, it seems that, because of the low price, these sessions are popular. So, Disney opens up more resorts, triples the price and lessons the offerings (no enhancements) with no real change to the quality of photographers. And that's unfortunate.

No thanks. I'll be bringing my tripod on my November trip and setting my camera to timer. :thumbsup2


Totally agree! I have my tripod ready to go..hehe

Heck, I only charge $75 for my sessions (and no I am not perfect but I am darn sure trying to give the best I can..) and they last as long as 2 hours with as many as 100 proofs shown! Right now I am only charging $35 as a special and they are outdoor natural light pics like at Disney. I would hate to know people are going to go down there and pay that kind of price and will be lucky if they walk away with 1-2 really good pics b/c then that is how much you just paid for the 1-2 shots! I see so many here that I want to pull and edit all the time b/c they are too centered, under exposed, etc...lol

I thought so many times that at least they have the fun enhancements and that was always nice but now not even those?? :eek:

Bad move Disney!!!:sad2:

So sorry to you guys who were not able to book at the $25 price.:hug:

[lissiesmum]

Originally Posted by pjstevens
ok, I already preordered my cd and made my appointment. Some one tell me that I am goign to be able to add my photos to that same cd without no additional cost!!! PLEASE!!!

I assumed if we ordered before the cutoff date that everything stays the same. If not, what would the $25 fee be for, and where would they put our pictures? If they don't put it on the pre-ordered CD, they wouldn't charge us extra to put it on another CD, right? I wasn't worried about this, but should I be? :confused3 I'd call to confirm, but every time I seem to call, the people barely speak English that answer the phone??? :confused: Has anyone else had any better luck reaching someone who understands?

[KIRSTIN'S MOMMY]

I was told that I could when I called because I had gotten in before the changes. I spoke to Clint at the Beach Club, and he said that they would be on a seperate CD, but I would still be able to get them all added on, just come back to the PhotoPass desk at the BC at the end of our stay.
Try this number: 407-934-4004 and it will let you pick the resort you want.

[lissiesmum]

Good news to all who ordered before today. I spoke directly to Sarah at the WL desk. She was really helpful and explained things very clearly. She confirmed if you pre-ordered your CD and booked before today that your photos will $25 sitting fee, no extra charges :) Good for us, and sorry to all who are traveling later in the month and beyond...I would have canceled my October plans like a lot of you, but luckily I had to change my vacation to next week so I barely squeaked by!

[skw444]

I booked my photo session several weeks ago for next week. Is there something that will show them that I booked this before the price increase? I wasn't given any kind of confirmation # when I booked.

[pmama]

It doesn't matter when you pre-order the CD does it?:confused3 I made the appointment a on the 19th but have not yet pre-ordered the CD. I will be doing that in the next couple days. I'm just hoping they go by when you booked, not when you pre-ordered. Does anyone know?

[lissiesmum]

I booked my photo session several weeks ago for next week. Is there something that will show them that I booked this before the price increase? I wasn't given any kind of confirmation # when I booked.


unfortunately there'll be nothing we can show. I was told by the WL CM that all of the people who booked before the change will be highlighted, as well as it will show the date we booked on our reservation. As far as I've been told, nothing to worry about except I already see from a few posts ago that what I was told about the CD was different from what the BC CM said to a previous poster, that there would be two CDs but you could burn them all on the same one or something? Be sure to let us know how everything turns out, you can be our guinea pig :rotfl: Although, I will only be two days arriving behind you so I guess I will be a guinea pig too, unless there is someone already there this week that can hopefully clear our fears away before we depart :laughing:

[lissiesmum]

It doesn't matter when you pre-order the CD does it?:confused3 I made the appointment a on the 19th but have not yet pre-ordered the CD. I will be doing that in the next couple days. I'm just hoping they go by when you booked, not when you pre-ordered. Does anyone know?


I don't think it will matter when your order the CD, but I bought mine a few days ago for fear that they would discontinue the offer...you never know when that offer might disappear. With what I've been seeing on the boards lately, I no longer leave anything to chance!

[KIRSTIN'S MOMMY]

unfortunately there'll be nothing we can show. I was told by the WL CM that all of the people who booked before the change will be highlighted, as well as it will show the date we booked on our reservation. As far as I've been told, nothing to worry about except I already see from a few posts ago that what I was told about the CD was different from what the BC CM said to a previous poster, that there would be two CDs but you could burn them all on the same one or something? Be sure to let us know how everything turns out, you can be our guinea pig :rotfl: Although, I will only be two days arriving behind you so I guess I will be a guinea pig too, unless there is someone already there this week that can hopefully clear our fears away before we depart :laughing:

It's ok, I'll be the guinea pig, lol. The CM told me that the Photo Session pics are put on the CD right away, so if I wanted my other PhotoPass pics at the end of the trip, they would have to be put on another CD, but they wouldn't charge me for it, just keep my receipt from the Photo Session. I hope it all works out or my dh is gonna be :mad:

[zurgswife]

It's ok, I'll be the guinea pig, lol. The CM told me that the Photo Session pics are put on the CD right away, so if I wanted my other PhotoPass pics at the end of the trip, they would have to be put on another CD, but they wouldn't charge me for it, just keep my receipt from the Photo Session. I hope it all works out or my dh is gonna be :mad:

If you have the photopass prepaid CD. You get a photopass card with the pics on it. If you get them put on a CD write there you are unable to edit or add borders we were told. As long as you get the photopass card ONLY IMPUT THAT CARD into the photopass prepaid account. If you load it any other way they are not included in the CD and you can't print them at will you will have to order through Disney.

[lissiesmum]

If you have the photopass prepaid CD. You get a photopass card with the pics on it. If you get them put on a CD write there you are unable to edit or add borders we were told. As long as you get the photopass card ONLY IMPUT THAT CARD into the photopass prepaid account. If you load it any other way they are not included in the CD and you can't print them at will you will have to order through Disney.

I think I'm going to need to take a college course to figure out what all this means! :confused: I thought that you get a photopass card, which all of your park photos and currently the photo session photos are uploaded onto this card which you then look at at home, make your enhancements, and then Disney sends you the actual CD and ships it to your house. If this is not the case, could you spell it out in layman's terms what I will need to do? I don't know if it's because it's late, or if I'm just fried in general trying to pack, but this just doesn't comprende with me! Thanks in advance for your help and patience :worship:

[Marshay]

I think I'm going to need to take a college course to figure out what all this means! :confused: I thought that you get a photopass card, which all of your park photos and currently the photo session photos are uploaded onto this card which you then look at at home, make your enhancements, and then Disney sends you the actual CD and ships it to your house. If this is not the case, could you spell it out in layman's terms what I will need to do? I don't know if it's because it's late, or if I'm just fried in general trying to pack, but this just doesn't comprende with me! Thanks in advance for your help and patience :worship:

This is the way it was done in the past ... can't say how they are changing in the future...best bet is to call them in advance and RECONFIRM on day of visit exactly what they are doing. It would be easy for the CM to mess up -- esp the "highlighted folks" who are still getting the old $25 one.

You do not want them to burn a CD for you there b/c then you cannot edit, crop, add titles, borders, characters, etc.

In the past:
1. Get photopass card allowing you to put as many pics on it from the parks as you want
2. Get photopass session pics put on the same photopass card(s) you are using in the parks or a new photopass card (NOT A CD!!!)
3. Once home, upload ALL the photopass cards to the Website and make edits and save. Submit to Disney.
4. Receive your photo CD in the mail.



Under the new $75 rule, it sounds like step 2 is replaced with a CD thus not allowing you to edit/crop, etc. However, you could still print your photos and if you have other Photo software, make edits in that ... you just couldn't add "Disney 2008" logo or "Walt Disney World" title, etc.

[Dannielle_1]

I'm like many others and disappointed in the price increase and other changes. I had thought about doing the photosession again this December (we did one in May at the Poly), but we will pass on it.

Two of my big complaints are the changes involved in receiving the pictures with the photo session.
1 - not being able to do enhancements.
2 - having to get the CD then and there.
This is actually a big one for me. I wouldn't want to have to carry a CD around all day with the possibility of losing it. (In May we had an early session, then went directly to the parks for touring, we weren't staying at the Poly). A photopass card is not as valuable as an actual CD with pictures on it, especially if you've copied down the number and put it in a safe location ;)

I felt like the previous $100 pre-order + the $25 for the sitting fee was a great value for both. I would even say going up to $150 for both is a good value. But with the increase, I almost feel like the regular (in-park) Photopass goes down in value just a little bit. I'll still do the Park Photopass, but now not being able to have the photo session included with a reasonable cost is a slight downgrade in that as well. Like others have mentioned I'll be seeking out those photopass people even a little more and having them take multiple shots.

Hopes this makes sense. But I do know that PhotoSessions lost a customer in December.

Sorry so long, but wanted to add: We had pretty good pictures overall, but were slightly disappointed in some of the poses/backgrounds. I went in counting on the photographer for locations. I had one in mind, but that didn't pan out. Anyway, we don't have one good shot of the Poly longbuildings in the background; nor the pool, marina, dock or castle. Partly my fault, but I was kind of clueless at the time and Poly was new on the location list, so no previous pics out there for ideas. I have lots of foliage pics and several with the Contemporary in the background. I don't even like the Contemporary (JMHO). :rotfl: Anyway, I would expect a lot more knowledge on setups and locations for that $$$.

Also, for the most part, we only got one picture per "shot." We would have a landscape/vertical/closeup of the same pose, but only one of each. I would expect several of each of those, because you know how pictures can be, some with a funny face, eyes closed. If you like the landscape layout best, but someone looks funny, (like a few pics I received in May), I'm out of luck on that one. I would think this is something a photographer would automatically do. I regulary take a couple shots with my own camera for this exact reason.

[jennwndrlnd]

A family member pre-ordered the Photopass and also booked the photo shoot at the Poly over the weekend. She was told that she made it in time for the $25 rate and that starting Sept.1 they would only be giving out cds for the shoot and she could burn them and give copies to anyone that wanted them. I guess from reading your responses that we should ask if they can give us a PP card instead.

[Kiki Lime]

Just cancelled my appointment for GF on 9/24 at 6:30 pm if anyone wants it. You'll see me and DH as the people going around with the tripod, lol!

[photolover]

OMG! I missed the deadline. I read before that you have until Aug 31 to book the old price, now it already got increased! Just a long shot, if anyone has an extra reservation for any session photoshoot at the old price during the period Aug 27-Sep 3rd and can spare it, would you please PM me? I hope I can get at least one for our first trip to celebrate our Anniversary. TIA!

[fairestoneofall]

If you get the CD, you should be able to edit and crop still. You just won't be able to add the Disney enhancements.

Or at least, that's what I'd think. They're going to put unedited jpeg files onto a CD. So, you could open them in a photo editing program to tweak them a little.

[momsavealot]

Hi guys! I just got back from the Poly and did the portrait session. Unfortunately, my dd who is 2 and a half years old did not cooperate. Also, because of Fay, we had to switch things around and I ended up canceling my 7pm appt. for a 9am appt. the next day. As I feared, the sun was in our eyes. The photographer, a woman, don't remember her name, was not that good. I had to tell her where we wanted shots and she seemed confused by the lighting in the main house near the waterfall which is basically the big shot. I made her take a picture of us near a palm tree and she basically said there were NO volcano shots which I know to be untrue. Out of the whole 15 minute session, I got about 5 good photos of various members of our group. No good group shot and certainly nothing worth using as our Christmas card. HOWEVER, I would have still recommended it UNTIL I came back and heard about this price increase. Are you kidding me? For $25, it's worth it. For $75 and no enhancements, it's a personal choice but would not be worth it to me. In general, I was disappointed with the scarcity of photopass photographers throughout the parks. I had preordered the cd. In the end, the best pictures are my own but I would still preorder the cd if you are going to be there for several parks and several days. However, IMHO, the portrait sessions at the hotels need better photographers. I felt like I knew more than my photographer and I'm an amateur! Like I said, at the original price, it's worth it to take the chance you will get one good shot. But at the higher price, I wouldn't do it again. Like a pp said, wander around the resort yourself, find the best spots and then bring a tripod and set the timer. Once I get my cd, I'll post some of my "sun in the eyes" photos.:sad2:

[Dizneydaz]

I wished we'd done it last year when it was free. We considered doing it this year for $25 extra, but we won't be doing it for the higher price they are now asking. And no enhancements-I'll take my own with my gorilla pod, thank you!

[PrincessTiffany]

Hi guys! I just got back from the Poly and did the portrait session. Unfortunately, my dd who is 2 and a half years old did not cooperate. Also, because of Fay, we had to switch things around and I ended up canceling my 7pm appt. for a 9am appt. the next day. As I feared, the sun was in our eyes. The photographer, a woman, don't remember her name, was not that good. I had to tell her where we wanted shots and she seemed confused by the lighting in the main house near the waterfall which is basically the big shot. I made her take a picture of us near a palm tree and she basically said there were NO volcano shots which I know to be untrue. Out of the whole 15 minute session, I got about 5 good photos of various members of our group. No good group shot and certainly nothing worth using as our Christmas card. HOWEVER, I would have still recommended it UNTIL I came back and heard about this price increase. Are you kidding me? For $25, it's worth it. For $75 and no enhancements, it's a personal choice but would not be worth it to me. In general, I was disappointed with the scarcity of photopass photographers throughout the parks. I had preordered the cd. In the end, the best pictures are my own but I would still preorder the cd if you are going to be there for several parks and several days. However, IMHO, the portrait sessions at the hotels need better photographers. I felt like I knew more than my photographer and I'm an amateur! Like I said, at the original price, it's worth it to take the chance you will get one good shot. But at the higher price, I wouldn't do it again. Like a pp said, wander around the resort yourself, find the best spots and then bring a tripod and set the timer. Once I get my cd, I'll post some of my "sun in the eyes" photos.:sad2:
That's what I was afraid of. And that's exactly why we have decided not to to a photopass photoshoot for our upcoming December trip. I'll just take shots with my own camera.

[SandrA9810]

I had some one do a run down on it a couple days ago, and it confused the heck out of me.
I think it's ridiculous that they're raising the prices that way. I know it's popular, but popular for a reason. But there will still be people who plop down thousands for fancy upgrades that don't make much of a difference.

I did a test one at Wilderness lodge and got a free cd (and yes that's open to any one as long as you do it in like the first week of it opening at a new resort). I just signed the pictures away to be used for promotional purposes.
But I didn't like my photographer and I thought I was going to be with some one else I knew better. On top of the 30 minute limit, he had a bad leg so he was slow moving around. And didn't get the special looking at each other pictures, or the sitting on the ground in each others arms. Hello we both had black and white mickey ears with the Bride and Groom patch on it, and told him we just got engaged at the top of wilderness lodge the night before. But I didn't get any of those special romantic pictures.
But as Kari said "what are you going to do, demand a refund?"

[SandrA9810]

And a fellow cast member that told me to do it had the better photographer and had all those special pictures with his partner. I felt jipped.

[momsavealot]

By the way, I should also mention that, in each resort, they have a kiosk with a running slideshow of all the different poses. Check that out before your appt. b/c, like I did, you may have to DIRECT your photographer on where to go and what pics to take. So be prepared. I saw the slideshow after our appt. and was disappointed that my photog didn't even suggest half of those poses. UGH!
Another thing, is that I was pleasantly surprised with how many times complete strangers would offer to take a pic of our family so I could be in it or even a CM standing next to the photopass guy. THESE ended up being our best pics! Thanks Disney strangers!!!
OH, and another thing while I'm thinking. I had no idea that if you do early magic hour at MK, there are NO photopass photographers. We walked down main street after rope drop and not one photographer. So, remember that!

[JCandKT]

I went ahead and set-up our portrait session at the Beach Club for 9/18 at 6 p.m. and I got my reservation in before the price increase --- thanks for the heads up with that. I would have been really bummed out if I hadn't squeezed in there before that outrageous increase!

We're excited because our wedding pictures left much to be desired... and we haven't had a real portrait taken of us during our marriage... so hopefully, we'll be relaxed and the pics will come out great!

I'll post them when we get back!

Thanks.

[pinkerbell]

For those considering paying the $75. I want you to see some of our pics from last yr. These are the best.. I didn't even save the bad ones to my laptop which is how I am posting this...

It WAS NOT that dark out, so I don't know why they all came out so poorly. but I am not a prof photographer...

We could have been anywhere???
definately not worth paying $75.00 for

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t238/barbfestiva/Photopass%202007/image518.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t238/barbfestiva/Photopass%202007/image490.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t238/barbfestiva/Photopass%202007/image485.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t238/barbfestiva/Photopass%202007/image442.jpg

and we really liked being able to add the enhancements...

for those of you who go forward with it.. good luck :goodvibes:

[Kiki Lime]

Thanks for all the feedback. I definitely do not regret cancelling my appointment.

[HALEYSMOMMOM]

For those considering paying the $75. I want you to see some of our pics from last yr. These are the best.. I didn't even save the bad ones to my laptop which is how I am posting this...

It WAS NOT that dark out, so I don't know why they all came out so poorly. but I am not a prof photographer...

We could have been anywhere???
definately not worth paying $75.00 for

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t238/barbfestiva/Photopass%202007/image518.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t238/barbfestiva/Photopass%202007/image490.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t238/barbfestiva/Photopass%202007/image485.jpg

http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t238/barbfestiva/Photopass%202007/image442.jpg

and we really liked being able to add the enhancements...

for those of you who go forward with it.. good luck :goodvibes:

Oh my goodness, look how light it is in that last pic compared to the ones that look like midnight! Someone must not have known what they were doing!

[zurgswife]

I will definitely make sure we get the same photographer next year if we do this again. Ours was great.

[Doug7856]

Over at DVCNews.com (http://www.DVCNews.com), Tim is reporting that the DVC member offer at SSR has been extended to December 31, 2008:

Member portrait offer available through December 31

Professional Portrait sittings are available now at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa for $49.95 plus tax, and Disney Vacation Club Members may take advantage of a special, limited-time offer.

Through December 31, 2008, Members who book a sitting at this location will receive a complimentary photo package that includes one 6-inch-by-8-inch photo and four 4-inch-by-6-inch photos from their session.

Guests have a variety of options following a photo session at the resort, from purchasing prints or a photo CD at the Disney's PhotoPass desk near The Artist's Palette gift shop (the desk is open daily from 8 a.m.-dusk) to simply using their Disney's PhotoPass card to access and purchase their photos online after they return home.

To schedule a session, call and remember to bring your Disney Vacation Club Member ID card to your session to receive the special offer.

So it sounds like the price will be $50 for DVC members with this special. OR, they may not have updated the price yet?

[Ducky4Disney]

Hmmm... curious new information. I know DVC gets a 10% discount on some photopgraphy service but it doesn't say it applies to the PhotoPass resort portraits.

I'll have to check into this. For a discount - I might risk it.

D4D

[KIRSTIN'S MOMMY]

I will definitely make sure we get the same photographer next year if we do this again. Ours was great.

Do you mind if I ask who it was? We just scheduled a BC shoot for Sept. 14th. I have talked to Clint and Justin on the phone, who both sounded like they knew what they were doing, but want to ask just in case they're not there.

[LilGMom]

Hmmm... curious new information. I know DVC gets a 10% discount on some photopgraphy service but it doesn't say it applies to the PhotoPass resort portraits.

I'll have to check into this. For a discount - I might risk it.

D4D

If you check into this could you please either post here what you find out or PM me. We'll be staying at our 'home' of SSR in December and had thought about doing the Photosession again (we just did one in May) but not for $75.

TIA

[Disneyfan.UK121]

I booked my session today at the WL for Sept 10th. When I booked I was told that it would cost $75. I then ordered my pre-bookable CD for $99 and in the small print it states that you can get a portrait for an additional fee of $25.

Surely the Terms and conditions of the promotional code e-mail that I received supersedes the increased price of $75 - Can I argue this.

It also states on a website (http://www.stitchkingdom.com/disneysphotopass/) that the price increase will not be relivant until Sept 1st but on this thread it mentions August 24th. Where do I stand as I cannot afford to pay $75 for the session.

Your help would be gratefully appreciated.:worship:

[Doug7856]

I booked my session today at the WL for Sept 10th. When I booked I was told that it would cost $75. I then ordered my pre-bookable CD for $99 and in the small print it states that you can get a portrait for an additional fee of $25.

Surely the Terms and conditions of the promotional code e-mail that I received supersedes the increased price of $75 - Can I argue this.

It also states on a website (http://www.stitchkingdom.com/disneysphotopass/) that the price increase will not be relivant until Sept 1st but on this thread it mentions August 24th. Where do I stand as I cannot afford to pay $75 for the session.

Your help would be gratefully appreciated.:worship:

I would highlight the $25 offer on the email and argue the point! If the offer doesn't have an expiration date, it should apply!

[PrincessMommyof3]

I booked my session today at the WL for Sept 10th. When I booked I was told that it would cost $75. I then ordered my pre-bookable CD for $99 and in the small print it states that you can get a portrait for an additional fee of $25.

Surely the Terms and conditions of the promotional code e-mail that I received supersedes the increased price of $75 - Can I argue this.

I would definitely push the $25 fee since it's in writing. Good luck!

[mom2zandjsquared]

I booked my session today at the WL for Sept 10th. When I booked I was told that it would cost $75. I then ordered my pre-bookable CD for $99 and in the small print it states that you can get a portrait for an additional fee of $25.

Surely the Terms and conditions of the promotional code e-mail that I received supersedes the increased price of $75 - Can I argue this.

It also states on a website (http://www.stitchkingdom.com/disneysphotopass/) that the price increase will not be relivant until Sept 1st but on this thread it mentions August 24th. Where do I stand as I cannot afford to pay $75 for the session.

Your help would be gratefully appreciated.:worship:

Does it still state only at the GF though?

[pjstevens]

Does it still state only at the GF though?

Mine did and I ordered it a few weeks ago (well maybe more than a month ago). But when I made my reservation and told her I had pre bought the cd she said $25!

[mom2zandjsquared]

Mine did and I ordered it a few weeks ago (well maybe more than a month ago). But when I made my reservation and told her I had pre bought the cd she said $25!

They could get really sticky with it with the price increase and the new locations that were added because by Disney standards they do not have to accept it at other locations because it states GF - just a warning!!

[Ducky4Disney]

If you check into this could you please either post here what you find out or PM me. We'll be staying at our 'home' of SSR in December and had thought about doing the Photosession again (we just did one in May) but not for $75.

TIA

I sort of checked into this. I could not find the origination of the DVC deal forever - but I finally located it on the dvcmember site under "news" - I was looking under "perks".

I called the 407 number, pressed 2 for SSR - and the guy had no clue about it. Told me to call DVC (MS I suppose) to ask them. :confused3 I have a few more days before my 30 mark anyway so I think I'll wait and try again. I just need details - is it true, that when I show my DVC card the session is $50 and I get prints? Can I also have my pics added to my PP card for that price? I may have to print out the offer and take it with me - but I don't want to schedule the wrong thing or not notify them of my DVC discount in advance and then end up arguing with them.

If someone else wants to call and give it a try let me know how it goes. It seems like a simple question. Why does Disney do this? Change things, tell the public first, give their CM's incomplete info, and see what happens - it makes no sense. :sad2:

D4D

[ToyotaKitten]

I sort of checked into this. I could not find the origination of the DVC deal forever - but I finally located it on the dvcmember site under "news" - I was looking under "perks".

I called the 407 number, pressed 2 for SSR - and the guy had no clue about it. Told me to call DVC (MS I suppose) to ask them. :confused3 I have a few more days before my 30 mark anyway so I think I'll wait and try again. I just need details - is it true, that when I show my DVC card the session is $50 and I get prints? Can I also have my pics added to my PP card for that price? I may have to print out the offer and take it with me - but I don't want to schedule the wrong thing or not notify them of my DVC discount in advance and then end up arguing with them.

If someone else wants to call and give it a try let me know how it goes. It seems like a simple question. Why does Disney do this? Change things, tell the public first, give their CM's incomplete info, and see what happens - it makes no sense. :sad2:

D4D

10% thing with DVC??? i have no clue. opnly thing we have for DVC right now is a free photomug. september it will be something else.

i'll ask my managers what that is about. DVC obviously did something without telling us about it. lol this isn't the first time either. lol

[ToyotaKitten]

Mine did and I ordered it a few weeks ago (well maybe more than a month ago). But when I made my reservation and told her I had pre bought the cd she said $25!

that's b/c you called b4 august 24th. if anyone called after the 24th they were quoted the NEW PRICE

[ToyotaKitten]

I booked my session today at the WL for Sept 10th. When I booked I was told that it would cost $75. I then ordered my pre-bookable CD for $99 and in the small print it states that you can get a portrait for an additional fee of $25.

Surely the Terms and conditions of the promotional code e-mail that I received supersedes the increased price of $75 - Can I argue this.

It also states on a website (http://www.stitchkingdom.com/disneysphotopass/) that the price increase will not be relivant until Sept 1st but on this thread it mentions August 24th. Where do I stand as I cannot afford to pay $75 for the session.

Your help would be gratefully appreciated.:worship:


THE PHOTOPASS PREORDER EMAIL was supposed to change along with our new prices. I had a lady call me the other day at beach club. and i quoted here the NEW prices. she said that she had an EMAIl that said $25 fee, not $75. so i told her to have that with her when she came for the appt and we MAY be able to accept that.. not GUARANTEE.

2 days later our manager said to HONOR that email. until it is changed. So if you got the email with the wrong prices. we will hafta honor that. so everyone cheer... :cheer2: you got a deal!

[ToyotaKitten]

Hi guys! I just got back from the Poly and did the portrait session. Unfortunately, my dd who is 2 and a half years old did not cooperate. Also, because of Fay, we had to switch things around and I ended up canceling my 7pm appt. for a 9am appt. the next day. As I feared, the sun was in our eyes. The photographer, a woman, don't remember her name, was not that good. I had to tell her where we wanted shots and she seemed confused by the lighting in the main house near the waterfall which is basically the big shot. I made her take a picture of us near a palm tree and she basically said there were NO volcano shots which I know to be untrue. Out of the whole 15 minute session, I got about 5 good photos of various members of our group. No good group shot and certainly nothing worth using as our Christmas card. HOWEVER, I would have still recommended it UNTIL I came back and heard about this price increase. Are you kidding me? For $25, it's worth it. For $75 and no enhancements, it's a personal choice but would not be worth it to me. In general, I was disappointed with the scarcity of photopass photographers throughout the parks. I had preordered the cd. In the end, the best pictures are my own but I would still preorder the cd if you are going to be there for several parks and several days. However, IMHO, the portrait sessions at the hotels need better photographers. I felt like I knew more than my photographer and I'm an amateur! Like I said, at the original price, it's worth it to take the chance you will get one good shot. But at the higher price, I wouldn't do it again. Like a pp said, wander around the resort yourself, find the best spots and then bring a tripod and set the timer. Once I get my cd, I'll post some of my "sun in the eyes" photos.:sad2:

yea we have no control of the weather... but it sure does control us....

what did the photographer at poly look like? what day was that? friday? saturday? if the photographer seemed confused, she might have been new to the location. and the only newbies trained there are ME (it wasnt me, i havent been to poly in the morning yet), and ANAIRA. the rest of the female cast are PROS at poly.

new prices are a jump.... however remember our guests used to get our protraits basically free with old prices (most cds were purchased at a resort, not pre-ordered) we have put value on our photos... therefore value on our photographers.. FINALLY, not to mention a little bit more pressure to be amazing. lol

[ToyotaKitten]

I had some one do a run down on it a couple days ago, and it confused the heck out of me.
I think it's ridiculous that they're raising the prices that way. I know it's popular, but popular for a reason. But there will still be people who plop down thousands for fancy upgrades that don't make much of a difference.

I did a test one at Wilderness lodge and got a free cd (and yes that's open to any one as long as you do it in like the first week of it opening at a new resort). I just signed the pictures away to be used for promotional purposes.
But I didn't like my photographer and I thought I was going to be with some one else I knew better. On top of the 30 minute limit, he had a bad leg so he was slow moving around. And didn't get the special looking at each other pictures, or the sitting on the ground in each others arms. Hello we both had black and white mickey ears with the Bride and Groom patch on it, and told him we just got engaged at the top of wilderness lodge the night before. But I didn't get any of those special romantic pictures.
But as Kari said "what are you going to do, demand a refund?"

bad leg? hmm i have no idea who that was.... Justin maybe? im the one with the bad knee in the cast.. but i do all the special shots. i love romance. so if you guys ever have me, get ready to get COZY and KISSY! lol

hmm that really sux! im so sorry. one reason it was free, its for our NEW CAST MEMBERS to get a feel for the new job they have taken up... so ifthey dont come out well - you didnt pay for it. its a TRAINING THING. its acutally a CAST MEMBER preview ONLY - but we allow guests to get in on the free deal. we cant say no.

[ToyotaKitten]

Do you mind if I ask who it was? We just scheduled a BC shoot for Sept. 14th. I have talked to Clint and Justin on the phone, who both sounded like they knew what they were doing, but want to ask just in case they're not there.

clint is awesome. justin can be great, but i have had guests ask me to retake the one justin did. he is not great with big groups. but he will come around!

[abc999]

toyotakitten -

Do you guys stay at the same resort? Or do you move around?

We have a session scheduled for 9/21 at the Beach Club. Can you recommend some locations that I should specifically ask for?

Thanks!

[DiznEeyore]

ToyotaKitten, just a thought ... maybe it's not such a good idea to be naming your co-workers here, esp. when people are indicating they weren't happy with the job they did ....

[DiznEeyore]

2 days later our manager said to HONOR that email. until it is changed. So if you got the email with the wrong prices. we will hafta honor that. so everyone cheer... :cheer2: you got a deal!


If they do actually honor it ... Disney isn't known for CM consistency or communication, unfortunately.

I hope they do, because we wanted to do the GF on Christmas Eve and had already preordered the CD before prices changed in anticipation of doing it, and my email also states $25. For $25, we will ... for $75, we won't.

[ToyotaKitten]

let me be the first to say that among all PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHERS WE ARE SORRY THAT EVERY ONE IS UPSET THAT THE PRICES WENT UP! =( when we heard the news, we knew it was not going to be pretty! :sad1:

Are people really cancelling b/c the prices went up? :sad2: why? b/c if you end up not being happy with your session you can DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT - that's what guest services are for. but if you are 100% happy then you lost nothing. :yay:

to put this into perspective:
one question, what are all of your jobs? what do you all do for a living? somewhere in the line of business that you do PRICES GO UP.. and in return you might get a raise :cheer2: , or your workspace becomes more enjoyable for you :banana: .. you are also more valuable to your company. :grouphug:

somewhere something gets better FOR YOU and your workspace. same deal here. I am actually more valuable than i was as a PARK PHOTOGRAPHER you know how great that feels? :yay: :cheer2: yea pretty happy! =) i can now afford my car payments more. this is a blessing. :flower3: and its sad to hear people so angry. :sad2:

our prices go up for a reason. we may lose a few people who cant afford it. understood. :thumbsup2 as i wouldn't be able to afford it every year either. we can still take a FREE 5 photo snap shot at any resort. :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

BEFORE SEPT 1st, 2008

guests can buy the cd in the park for $125.... they can buy the CD with park photos and get PROFESSIONAL PORTRAITS done for $125 - so they got professional portraits FREE!!!!! FREEE?????? :confused3 wait a second. professional photographers are a step or so higher than park photographers. we are more skilled we are required to do more, we are trained totally different, we worked hard in the park to get to the portraits job, yet we are paid the same and have the same value. AND WE ARE FREE??? WE ARE OF NO VALUE.....we make no extra money for photopass...we are just a free extra. :sad1:

so we put value on us. we are trying to bring us up closer to market value. we are now $75 extra.... which is still cheaper than market value :thumbsup2

here are some examples of FAMILY PORTRAIT PRICES OUTSIDE of DISNEY:

http://www.scottcraigphotography.com/Site/portrait_pricing.html
http://www.solorzanophotography.com/families/
http://www.cathysphotography.com/1803471.html

and most of these are just prices on the sitting fee, NOT the fact that you are able to KEEP ALL of your photos. :sad2:

we may expensive to some individuals... like a new car. its expensive but not all cars are overpriced. and Disney photopass portraits are not overpriced at all compared to market values.

we knew we were goin to have angry guests. :scared1: we also knew that this will put pressure on us. adn we knew that guests will not like paying the extra $75 when they used to get it practically free. heck when the ticket prices went up, i know guests were upset. but the problem is, prices will always go up, and it won't ever make you happy. :sad2: just remember that as the prices go up, it helps out each cast member, which in return gets back to you. :cool1: :thumbsup2 :yay:

this was not posted in anger, but in concern of some people having the wrong idea about how we work our operation. we do it for you. please don't dog us. we work really hard to make your dreams come true. i know its expensive to come down to WDW, but we dont get paid much either. we work on peanuts to make you guys happy. :grouphug: :flower3:

if you do come by the photopass desk at the resorts, please say hello to us, even if you don't take a portrait session. if you have concerns, please tell us, we can relay info and stuff to our managers. prices won't go down, but maybe we can accomodate you better. after all right now we offer 20% off of all online purchases to those who book a session in august. i have no idea what it will be next month.

thank you for giving us a job!!! without you guys wanting your portraits taken my dream wouldnt be coming true... i wouldnt be where i am today. without you, i wouldnt have this job. so thank you for letting me take your family's portraits. and i hope to meet some or all of you!

-Cheryl

[ToyotaKitten]

If they do actually honor it ... Disney isn't known for CM consistency or communication, unfortunately.

I hope they do, because we wanted to do the GF on Christmas Eve and had already preordered the CD before prices changed in anticipation of doing it, and my email also states $25. For $25, we will ... for $75, we won't.

well luckily PORTRAITS CAST is a TINY CAST. and we all have MOUSEMAIL accounts. we all got an email to honor it... and we will all honor that.

[ToyotaKitten]

toyotakitten -

Do you guys stay at the same resort? Or do you move around?

We have a session scheduled for 9/21 at the Beach Club. Can you recommend some locations that I should specifically ask for?

Thanks!

my personal fave is anything with the LIGHTHOUSE in the back. our photographers almost ALWAYS go there. there is a spot we call PEARL HARBOR.... its my fave place.

[ToyotaKitten]

ToyotaKitten, just a thought ... maybe it's not such a good idea to be naming your co-workers here, esp. when people are indicating they weren't happy with the job they did ....


well the people i named are all great! some are better at certain situations than others. same with me. i have had some trouble getting my apperture correct with a SUPER BRIGHT SUN. so that's why i take several shots till i get it right. =)

[mom2zandjsquared]

ToyotaKitten, just a thought ... maybe it's not such a good idea to be naming your co-workers here, esp. when people are indicating they weren't happy with the job they did ....

A PP mentioned the two names she mentioned and since anyone can find out who the CM's are just by having a photo session done I don't think its a big deal.

[Kiki Lime]

ToyotaKitten,

Okay, from what I understood by reading this thread, is that the photographers at the resorts are NOT professionals, as you state. We've all seen the photos that have lots of nonprofessional touches - shadows, squinting eyes from the sun, lack of back lighting, dark photos, etc. Some have even stated their photographers didn't seem to know much more about taking photos then they did!

That's why we aren't doing it. That's why I cancelled my appointment - because the price TRIPLED for nonprofessional photos. My DH is not a photographer, but he works in the film industry and takes fairly decent photos himself, and he was NOT impressed when I showed him the photos in this thread. But for $25, we thought "why not?" I would have even paid $50. But I did not like finding out when I called on 8/25 to schedule GF pics for 9/24 that the price had tripled. It was rediculous. We will not be doing the photo session and that is why.

I understand about inflation and stuff, but come on. This is a huge price hike over night. It doesn't seem fair that I missed out by one day. I would have scheduled a while ago if I didn't have to wait until 30 days out. Sorry, Disney lost out on my money for this one.

[DiznEeyore]

Are people really cancelling b/c the prices went up? :sad2: why? b/c if you end up not being happy with your session you can DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT - that's what guest services are for. but if you are 100% happy then you lost nothing. :yay:

-Cheryl

Yes, people are really cancelling. You're asking why -- have you not read our reasons? We spelled them out clearly. Have you not looked at some of the disappointing pictures that have been posted? I guess I don't understand why you don't understand. :confused3

Please, please don't view this as a personal attack -- it's not. I'm addressing the whole situation, and you're the only one brave enough to come here and try to explain things to us (and for this we're grateful!). But it's clear that you still don't see the difference between a PhotoPass photographer charging the equivalent of $150/hour and a true, trained, experienced professional who rightfully can command that rate.

You linked to professional photographers' sites, but that's comparing apples to oranges. The quality guests are receiving at Disney is not of studio caliber. That's it. Some hours of training on a camera doesn't make a person a professional photographer.

I used to manage an Olan Mills portrait studio. Our photographers received training, but there were only one or two I ever would've considered professional caliber. Likewise, I used to work in the fine jewelry department at Kohl's. I had training in gems, but that training didn't make me a professional jeweler or gemologist.

No one is mad at the photographers for the price increase ... it's the "Disney money machine" that is frustrating. For the $25 price, we felt it was worth taking time out of our park touring to try and get one or two good pictures (which is all most people get from these resort sessions). For triple that, it's not worth it.

Only time will tell how the price increase effects the business.

[DiznEeyore]

A PP mentioned the two names she mentioned and since anyone can find out who the CM's are just by having a photo session done I don't think its a big deal.

I was talking specifically about the bad experience momsavealot had, and the fact that ToyotaKitten was trying to figure out what the photog looked like and naming the other "new" photographer (see below). I wasn't trying to scold her ... I just felt like if her bosses saw that post, they might object to her being open like that with a dissatisfied guest and I'd hate to see her put in that position. That's all. :confused3



Hi guys! I just got back from the Poly and did the portrait session. Unfortunately, my dd who is 2 and a half years old did not cooperate. Also, because of Fay, we had to switch things around and I ended up canceling my 7pm appt. for a 9am appt. the next day. As I feared, the sun was in our eyes. The photographer, a woman, don't remember her name, was not that good. I had to tell her where we wanted shots and she seemed confused by the lighting in the main house near the waterfall which is basically the big shot. I made her take a picture of us near a palm tree and she basically said there were NO volcano shots which I know to be untrue. Out of the whole 15 minute session, I got about 5 good photos of various members of our group. No good group shot and certainly nothing worth using as our Christmas card. HOWEVER, I would have still recommended it UNTIL I came back and heard about this price increase. Are you kidding me? For $25, it's worth it. For $75 and no enhancements, it's a personal choice but would not be worth it to me. In general, I was disappointed with the scarcity of photopass photographers throughout the parks. I had preordered the cd. In the end, the best pictures are my own but I would still preorder the cd if you are going to be there for several parks and several days. However, IMHO, the portrait sessions at the hotels need better photographers. I felt like I knew more than my photographer and I'm an amateur! Like I said, at the original price, it's worth it to take the chance you will get one good shot. But at the higher price, I wouldn't do it again. Like a pp said, wander around the resort yourself, find the best spots and then bring a tripod and set the timer. Once I get my cd, I'll post some of my "sun in the eyes" photos.


yea we have no control of the weather... but it sure does control us....

what did the photographer at poly look like? what day was that? friday? saturday? if the photographer seemed confused, she might have been new to the location. and the only newbies trained there are ME (it wasnt me, i havent been to poly in the morning yet), and ANAIRA. the rest of the female cast are PROS at poly.

[janloz]

THE PHOTOPASS PREORDER EMAIL was supposed to change along with our new prices. I had a lady call me the other day at beach club. and i quoted here the NEW prices. she said that she had an EMAIl that said $25 fee, not $75. so i told her to have that with her when she came for the appt and we MAY be able to accept that.. not GUARANTEE.

2 days later our manager said to HONOR that email. until it is changed. So if you got the email with the wrong prices. we will hafta honor that. so everyone cheer... :cheer2: you got a deal!


The email I received only has GF listed for the $25 fee. Will they honor at Poly or WL? thanks

[PrincessTiffany]

ToyotaKitten,

Okay, from what I understood by reading this thread, is that the photographers at the resorts are NOT professionals, as you state. We've all seen the photos that have lots of nonprofessional touches - shadows, squinting eyes from the sun, lack of back lighting, dark photos, etc. Some have even stated their photographers didn't seem to know much more about taking photos then they did!

That's why we aren't doing it. That's why I cancelled my appointment - because the price TRIPLED for nonprofessional photos. My DH is not a photographer, but he works in the film industry and takes fairly decent photos himself, and he was NOT impressed when I showed him the photos in this thread. But for $25, we thought "why not?" I would have even paid $50. But I did not like finding out when I called on 8/25 to schedule GF pics for 9/24 that the price had tripled. It was rediculous. We will not be doing the photo session and that is why.

I understand about inflation and stuff, but come on. This is a huge price hike over night. It doesn't seem fair that I missed out by one day. I would have scheduled a while ago if I didn't have to wait until 30 days out. Sorry, Disney lost out on my money for this one.
I totally agree with this. Disney has also lost out on our money.

[anthony2k7]

Are people really cancelling b/c the prices went up? :sad2: why? b/c if you end up not being happy with your session you can DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT - that's what guest services are for. but if you are 100% happy then you lost nothing. :yay:

to put this into perspective:
one question, what are all of your jobs? what do you all do for a living? somewhere in the line of business that you do PRICES GO UP.. and in return you might get a raise :cheer2:

I know disney is where dreams come true, but a raise that much is beyond my wildest dreams!

I think you should remember the other reason people are unhappy is with how you will get the photos in the future. The way before you could just add them to your normal photopass account and then edit, add borders and other graphics as well as getting prints or other photopass products was very appealing - and now apparently that wont be an option? So we're potentially paying a lot more for a lot less!

[Ducky4Disney]

ToyotyaKitten - thank you, thank you, thank you! You have been a wealth of information! :hug:

I understand that you are posting out of frustration for us, not at us, and nothing is meant in anger. Unfortunately, Disney does have a habit of scrambling things up and not being real clear to anyone - not the CM's or the guests - and we all wind up upset and confused.

I would LOVE to have family portraits taken at SSR! It's my home resort and I love it there (check my signature). True professional portrait photography (outside of WDW and PhotoPass) is very pricey and this offer is a deal - at $25 or $75. But can they justify upping the price and not upping the product? It's more money, same amount of time, and NO special enhancements (from the info we have here).

Plus, I have to say it again - I've seen some pics posted here that are FAR from anything I would call professional. Now I'm seeing a very small portion of pictures - maybe it's a fluke and 99% of the pics are perfect everytime. Do I want to take time out of my vacation to maybe get a good photographer and maybe get 5 good shots - for $75? And if I'm not happy and choose not to pay for or accept any of them - what kind of experience is that; on my vacation?

Yes, prices change, generally in an upwards fashion :rolleyes:, for everything.

It is what it is sometimes. :flower3:

I really appreciate you posting here and letting us see the other side of this situation - we all want the same thing; a good product for a good price. Whether or not those two sides are equal at $75 - only time will tell.

I want these pics so bad, I really do. I think I will bring my tripod with me and mess around. I may even change my mind and book it on the spot after seeing some examples and talking to the photographer(s).

You're comments on this matter are greatly appreciated!

D4D

PS - the DVC portrait package extension at SSR that I perviously posted about - if you come with anything about that, will you post it here or PM me please?

[bear74]

THE PHOTOPASS PREORDER EMAIL was supposed to change along with our new prices. I had a lady call me the other day at beach club. and i quoted here the NEW prices. she said that she had an EMAIl that said $25 fee, not $75. so i told her to have that with her when she came for the appt and we MAY be able to accept that.. not GUARANTEE.

2 days later our manager said to HONOR that email. until it is changed. So if you got the email with the wrong prices. we will hafta honor that. so everyone cheer... :cheer2: you got a deal!

glad to hear this.

[LilGMom]

Are people really cancelling b/c the prices went up? :sad2: why?

Yes. Why? The quality of the pictures that my family had taken during the photo shoot honestly isn't that much better than most of the ones taken in the parks. The only real difference is that for the $25 we paid at the GF we had the photographer to ourselves for 20 minutes whereas the "free" park photographers we only had for 5-8 minutes.

one question, what are all of your jobs? what do you all do for a living? somewhere in the line of business that you do PRICES GO UP.. and in return you might get a raise :cheer2: , or your workspace becomes more enjoyable for you :banana: .. you are also more valuable to your company. :grouphug:

I work as an engineering technician and if the company's prices go up more than likely my company is just making more profit. ;) I'd love to tell them that due to my phenomenal drafting skills we kept clients happy so therefore I need a plasma tv, but don't see that happening.

our prices go up for a reason. we may lose a few people who cant afford it. understood. :thumbsup2 as i wouldn't be able to afford it every year either. we can still take a FREE 5 photo snap shot at any resort. :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

I understand that prices go up and I have no problem paying $75 for a professional photo session for me and my family. But I have a problem paying $3.75 per minute for less than professional (imho) portraits that are "cookie cutter" with little consideration or time given to adjust for lighting and background. I'm glad to hear that due to the outrageous price increase that WDW portrait photographer will be earning a bit more. But please understand that due to the triple cost, no added benefits and less perks (no longer able to add enhancements) WDW will not be getting the business of my family, my mother/father-in-law or my sister/brother-in-law when we visit in a few months.

[parkers*momma]

WOW...let's think about this for a minute.

$25 to $75, I will agree it is a steep jump but put it into perspective. What do you pay for a roll of film....for processing....gas to run here and there to get the shots you would be getting at WDW. And who could say that ours would be any better or worse than the photographers?

Maybe you have a digital....that would bring it down some plus you could actually see the pictures immediately but you would still be walking around to find that perfect shot.

I personally would pay the $25 or the $75. This is my first mother/daughter vacation and am thrilled to be able to capture those moments without having to stress about where/what to shoot.

I don't know about any of you, but I work with the public and part of my job is making my customers happy. I definitely wouldn't want to be a photographer for WDW and having to deal with customers. Not only is WDW the happiest place on Earth, but human nature demands perfection in services we pay for. Put yourself in the photographers shoes...would you want to listen to the complaints day in and day out for no more than they get paid? You could never pay me enough to work where it is advertised "the happiest place on earth". PPl are quick to complain to clerks, secretaries, the working part of a company but few will go to upper management. It's far way easier to blow steam in an instant at the first person handy but it takes more effort to move up the corporate ladder

Yes, you are paying for a service...the photograph session...but you are also paying for their knowledge of where to shoot, how to pose, etc. You are paying for the convience of not having to lug a tripod, camera supplies, etc.

Yes, it might be $3.75 a minute...or you could look at it like this. $75 for 60-70 photos....a little over $1.00 per photo. A price of a 20oz Pepsi and it only last 1/2 hour. Those photos will last a life time...let it be one magical photo or all 70 photos, it's a moment in your life that will bring you happiness for a lot longer than a pepsi.

Welcome to Dis Cheryl (toyotakitten) your insight/knowledge will be a TRUE ASSET to Dis!

[momsavealot]

yea we have no control of the weather... but it sure does control us....

what did the photographer at poly look like? what day was that? friday? saturday? if the photographer seemed confused, she might have been new to the location. and the only newbies trained there are ME (it wasnt me, i havent been to poly in the morning yet), and ANAIRA. the rest of the female cast are PROS at poly.

new prices are a jump.... however remember our guests used to get our protraits basically free with old prices (most cds were purchased at a resort, not pre-ordered) we have put value on our photos... therefore value on our photographers.. FINALLY, not to mention a little bit more pressure to be amazing. lol

Hi there! She was young and had dark hair in a pony tail. She didn't talk at all which is why all our indoor shots near the waterfall stink! We didn't know when she was going to take the pic or not. She never said "smile" or anything happy to get the kids going. I had to do that. And with the outside shots, I know the photogs can't control the weather, but it was MY idea to have the kids close their eyes until she was ready and then tell them to open them wide for the shot. In fact, everything was my idea which is what was frustrating. I'm an amateur and I felt like I knew more about the session than she did. So, maybe she was a newbie. Like I said before, for $25 I'm not going to complain because I got 4 good photos. But our session was certainly not 30 minutes and certainly not 60-70 photos like I hear some people on this board get. It was 9am on a Monday if that helps. I certainly don't want to get the girl in trouble but I agree with pp's that if you're going to charge higher prices, more experienced photogs should be there. Stick the newbies in the parks to get the experience. When I saw her confused by the lighting in the lobby near the waterfall near Boutiki, I knew I was in trouble.:scared1:

[DiznEeyore]

Yes, you are paying for a service...the photograph session...but you are also paying for their knowledge of where to shoot, how to pose, etc.

I feel like I'm beating a dead horse here, but that's exactly the point! These photographers do NOT have the "knowledge of where to shoot, how to pose, etc.". If they DID, there wouldn't be so much excessive squinting, sunspots and shadows, objects appearing to "grow" out of people's heads, etc. That's why they're not worth $150 an hour.

If someone sees the value in it, then they should definitely go for it! :) But for many of us who are particular about our photographs and how we spend our money, the value sadly isn't there.

[Kycha]

Something else to consider, the photo session is only $25(or $75) after purchasing the photopass(for $99 or $125) cd. If you don't purchase the cd, the photosession alone is $175(or was that $200).

[parkers*momma]

I feel like I'm beating a dead horse here, but that's exactly the point! These photographers do NOT have the "knowledge of where to shoot, how to pose, etc.". If they DID, there wouldn't be so much excessive squinting, sunspots and shadows, objects appearing to "grow" out of people's heads, etc. That's why they're not worth $150 an hour.
If someone sees the value in it, then they should definitely go for it! :) But for many of us who are particular about our photographs and how we spend our money, the value sadly isn't there.

I can ALMOST promise you that those photgraphers are not making even a fraction of that $150.00. You are NOT paying them $150.00 for their expertise....it's more like WDW is making 90% of that $150.00. I agree to the fact that it is a great amount of money BUT to complain about the photographer...these ppl aren't making the money. Instead of complaining about the photographer...to a photographer....., ppl should be complaining TO WDW. And if they (the photographers) had the expertise, you would be paying alot more than $75.00 per session. Just try hiring someone to go to WDW and take your pictures.

Your right in one aspect, it is a person's choice. I'd rather have a photograph of that one special moment than to put a price on it or complain about what I "thought" was good vs what someone else might feel is good picture.

Let's just say that if this entire photo thing would have started out at $75 instead of free or $25....most would not have given it a second thought. If they wanted the pictures, they would have paid it without a second thought. But since they started out free or cheap and raised it is now an issue.

Just a couple thoughts...
.........this is realitively new and so are the photographers. Each of us, when we started our jobs, we weren't the top of our profession...but in time, we have grown and become better with each passing day. Same can be held true with the photgraphers.

........Second, if you don't like your photographs for the amount of money ($25 or $75) you can bring it up not only to the photgrapher BUT also to management and work out a happy medium.

........Third, why complain or vent about the photgraphers? If it is a real issue for anyone....call, write, email WDW Corporate and ask questions, voice concerns, rant if you want but shooting the messanger is senseless. These photographers are employees, only trained as WDW seen fit, and attacking them isn't going to change anything. If you want to see change go to the main root of the problem. Ask about Guarantees, discounts, prices, etc. at corporate and get it in writing if you think it is going to be an issue when/if you chose to use this service.


Lastly, I AM particular and thrive on value but can't see getting my panties in a bunch over this. Either you want it and pay for it or you don't and move on. I chose to capture the moments with my daughter and enjoy than to squabble over the all mighty dollar. It's all about priority and what is important to each of us. Capturing those precious moments with my 8 year old is important to me.

[LilGMom]

My perspective is that if they or any business is going to triple the price they shouldn't be reducing the end product (no longer able to make enhancements to the photo session pictures) not making it better and expect me to be happy about it. If I am a regular customer at TGI Fridays and always get their chicken fingers for $9.99 do you think that I'm going to continue getting those chicken fingers if they are suddenly $29.97 and they've reduced the number I get? Nope, I'll be going elsewhere to get comparable chicken fingers. And if I'm paying someone $75 to take pictures of my family they should be a lot better than if I walked around doing it myself which is part of the problem - these pictures are not necessarily any better and they should be.

In our pictures that we had done in May you honestly can't tell where we are. Sure there is a little bit of the GF showing in the background on a few but I could have met a friend with my digital camera at one of the buildings in my home city's downtown and gotten a picture that was about the same.

As far as the pictures costing around $1.00 each, if you are lucky enough to get 75 pictures, when you figure in the cost that you have to then put out to a processing site/location the cost jumps up to more like $5-8 per 8x10.

I agree with you that I could never work at someplace that has such a reputation for good customer service but I also know that I would never make a good waitress (you want it when?!?!?). Therefore I do not put myself in the position of working with the public at such places. Just like if I was allergic to animals I wouldn't work in a pet store. I'm allergic to stupid people that feel entitled to everything so I don't work at WDW. :rolleyes1

........Third, why complain or vent about the photgraphers? If it is a real issue for anyone....call, write, email WDW Corporate and ask questions, voice concerns, rant if you want but shooting the messanger is senseless. These photographers are employees, only trained as WDW seen fit, and attacking them isn't going to change anything. If you want to see change go to the main root of the problem. Ask about Guarantees, discounts, prices, etc. at corporate and get it in writing if you think it is going to be an issue when/if you chose to use this service.

Lastly, I AM particular and thrive on value but can't see getting my panties in a bunch over this. Either you want it and pay for it or you don't and move on. I chose to capture the moments with my daughter and enjoy than to squabble over the all mighty dollar. It's all about priority and what is important to each of us. Capturing those precious moments with my 8 year old is important to me.

I completely agree with the highlighted statement. But this entire thread was started as a general rant about the huge price increase. I too want to capture moments with my family and value those. What I don't value is a picture where everyone is squinting and having it look like lamp posts are sprouting from our heads. If I want to just capture moments I can use the Park Photopass Photographers for that and since they aren't "Professional" like the resort photographers it should be cheaper right?

I feel like I'm beating a dead horse here, but that's exactly the point! These photographers do NOT have the "knowledge of where to shoot, how to pose, etc.". If they DID, there wouldn't be so much excessive squinting, sunspots and shadows, objects appearing to "grow" out of people's heads, etc. That's why they're not worth $150 an hour.

If someone sees the value in it, then they should definitely go for it! :) But for many of us who are particular about our photographs and how we spend our money, the value sadly isn't there.

:thumbsup2 - What you said. :)

[parkers*momma]

Something else to consider, the photo session is only $25(or $75) after purchasing the photopass(for $99 or $125) cd. If you don't purchase the cd, the photosession alone is $175(or was that $200).



And if that was the case...$200....maybe ppl will hire a private photgrapher and crunch into Disney's profit margin. If you really want photographs and can hire a professional for $200 that will drive to WDW, have good photos, and all of the photos that they took, then I say go for it.

I guess it is all about how one looks at things.

Maybe it would be better if WDW would guarantee that XXX amount of pictures would be taken and that you would recieve XXXX amount of outstanding pictures. Then I don't think anyone would be as upset.

I guess my real issue is seeing the photographers attacked when it is clearly an issue with WDW. More training, more time to prepare, longer sessions, a guarantee....those seem to be the real issues.

[parkers*momma]

I agree with you that I could never work at someplace that has such a reputation for good customer service but I also know that I would never make a good waitress (you want it when?!?!?). Therefore I do not put myself in the position of working with the public at such places. Just like if I was allergic to animals I wouldn't work in a pet store. I'm allergic to stupid people that feel entitled to everything so I don't work at WDW. :rolleyes1

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 So true...I'd bip-slap someone!!!



I completely agree with the highlighted statement. But this entire thread was started as a general rant about the huge price increase. I too want to capture moments with my family and value those. What I don't value is a picture where everyone is squinting and having it look like lamp posts are sprouting from our heads. If I want to just capture moments I can use the Park Photopass Photographers for that and since they aren't "Professional" like the resort photographers it should be cheaper right?

Rant away :thumbsup2 :lmao: I just felt that a couple of WDW employees were trying to be helpful and offering insight and seemed to be taking the brunt of the rant. I will say this as an employer, I would hire either of them because thier loyalty to WDW is exceptional and that is truly an asset in it's own.



Anyway, I'm not trying to PO anyone...also I'm not trying to defend my own impressions/ideas but if you want change you have to make waves and to do that....WDW corporation is the best bet.

[DoOverDreams]

If we still had the ability to enhance the photos online I would be interested, even with the price increase. However, no longer having that ability makes it not worth it to me.

Every trip we take to WDW and DL we get the photopass CDs and we love them! What we love most is the ability to customize all of the pictures first. It makes all the photos, no matter how bad I look in them :rotfl: special. And we've gone every month this year, so we've bought a lot of CDs!

So, maybe the powers that be at WDW can reconsider allowing us the ability to customize. I would love to have a photo session on our next trip in October for Halloween, and one in December for Christmas, however won't do it unless the policy is fixed!

Just my 2 cents....

[kimisabella]

We just had a photoshoot at the Poly this past Saturday. We had to re-schedule 3 times because of the weather and the staff and the Poly was great about it. We had a good photographer, a male, won't say his name on here. Took about 60 pics, all different locations, because we had to change
3X we had a 9:30a.m. appointment and the sun was a bit of a problem, but he really was good about poisitioning us in the right way. He did mention that we got in at a good time because the price was going way up. He did photos of dh and I, dh alone, me alone, both dd's alone and together, really a good mix of photos.

[cherbear]

We just had a photoshoot at the Poly this past Saturday. We had to re-schedule 3 times because of the weather and the staff and the Poly was great about it. We had a good photographer, a male, won't say his name on here. Took about 60 pics, all different locations, because we had to change
3X we had a 9:30a.m. appointment and the sun was a bit of a problem, but he really was good about poisitioning us in the right way. He did mention that we got in at a good time because the price was going way up. He did photos of dh and I, dh alone, me alone, both dd's alone and together, really a good mix of photos.

ooh! We wanna see! Right everyone? :thumbsup2

[kimisabella]

ooh! We wanna see! Right everyone? :thumbsup2

Actually, I don't have the CD yet, but I will post some pics when I get it back from Disney :)

[DiznEeyore]

I can ALMOST promise you that those photgraphers are not making even a fraction of that $150.00. You are NOT paying them $150.00 for their expertise....it's more like WDW is making 90% of that $150.00. I agree to the fact that it is a great amount of money BUT to complain about the photographer...these ppl aren't making the money. Instead of complaining about the photographer...to a photographer....., ppl should be complaining TO WDW. And if they (the photographers) had the expertise, you would be paying alot more than $75.00 per session. Just try hiring someone to go to WDW and take your pictures.


Of COURSE they're not making a fraction of that $150/hour! You're missing the point entirely! And on one hand, you're saying we're paying for their expertise (see your earlier post), and on the other, you're saying we're not! Which is it?

And if I did want to "try hiring someone", FYI, I've gotten quotes from two great Orlando-area photographers who will come out to WDW for $250 for two to three hours and give us the CD. And if you do the math, that's cheaper than $150/hour. ;)

Also, to be clear, none of us were "complaining" to a photographer -- we were discussing our unhappiness with the quality and price increase it as guests/customers, and she entered the discussion. No one's been "ranting" at anyone.

[Ducky4Disney]

........Third, why complain or vent about the photgraphers? If it is a real issue for anyone....call, write, email WDW Corporate and ask questions, voice concerns, rant if you want but shooting the messanger is senseless. These photographers are employees, only trained as WDW seen fit, and attacking them isn't going to change anything. If you want to see change go to the main root of the problem. Ask about Guarantees, discounts, prices, etc. at corporate and get it in writing if you think it is going to be an issue when/if you chose to use this service.

I don't think anyone is attacking the photographers here! We are not complaining to them - one of them was nice enough, and brave enough, to come here and help us understand why the price increased. What we are trying to explain to her is that the price doesn't match the service! The PP CD is $125 for me to have pictures taken by PhotoPass Photographers at various locations throughout WDW. These photogs are not professionals - no prob, we get lots of pics, get to keep them all, and can edit/enhance them. Great! I have 2 PP CD's, and I like every pic on them for the most part - other than the one where my DH really needed to shave :rolleyes: but from what I am reading here - the resort portrait sessions are no better than the average park PhotoPass pictures, so why shouldn't they be included on my CD? Why should I have to pay more for them? Oh, you get more time with the photographer... ok $25, maybe $50. But an extra $75 for average PhotoPass pics? Huh? :confused3

Read this thread from the start - we were excited that they were adding additional locations, we were comfortable with $25 and most of us would do $50, then Disney started to change it.... $75... no enhancements... and we saw some examples of the product.

No one is attacking the photographers - it's not their call on what the prices should be or how the program should change, we get that. But they're being protrayed as one thing - and we're getting something else.

D4D

[parkers*momma]

Of COURSE they're not making a fraction of that $150/hour! You're missing the point entirely! And on one hand, you're saying we're paying for their expertise (see your earlier post), and on the other, you're saying we're not! Which is it?

And if I did want to "try hiring someone", FYI, I've gotten quotes from two great Orlando-area photographers who will come out to WDW for $250 for two to three hours and give us the CD. And if you do the math, that's cheaper than $150/hour. ;)

Also, to be clear, none of us were "complaining" to a photographer -- we were discussing our unhappiness with the quality and price increase it as guests/customers, and she entered the discussion. No one's been "ranting" at anyone.

:rotfl: Are you a lawyer? in Politics? ;) ....Just kidding. This could go on forever and ever but simply not worth it. I see we both have one good quality...we love to stand by/give our opinions! :rotfl:

I think we are reading the same book, just on different pages. Is it safe to say...it's what each person desire while at WDW-with or without the photos- and leave it at that. We could debate until the cows come home but I don't think they would never make it home.:rotfl:

And this is meant with complete and utmost sincerity...If you chose to hire one of the photographers...I hope your pics turn out fantastic. As I hope mine will too.

And if one really wants to make changes, I still stand by my earlier post....contacting WDW....let the voices be heard where it matters most-at the top. :thumbsup2

[lissiesmum]

ooh! We wanna see! Right everyone? :thumbsup2

I second that, let's get back to those happy smiling families on vacation...cuz that's where I'll be in four days! :banana:

[parkers*momma]

I second that, let's get back to those happy smiling families on vacation...cuz that's where I'll be in four days! :banana:

Lucky luck you! We still 17 days....a looooooooog 17 days.

I hope the weather is great while you are there!

[photobob]

Let me first say that I have only seen a couple of peoples "photo sessions" photos posted. I am a professional photographer and the photos that I have seen aren't professional quality. It takes a lot of experience, know how and God given talent to produce excellent photographs.

I'm assuming the people shooting these sessions are hired, given some training and boom they are photographers. Having a camera, no matter how nice a camera, does not make one a photographer. Don't expect the quality you would get from a professional photographer from these photo sessions, because you are not dealing with professional photographers, you are dealing with people who are hired to take pictures. There is a VERY big difference.

[lissiesmum]

Lucky luck you! We still 17 days....a looooooooog 17 days.

I hope the weather is great while you are there!

Thanks, me too. I am very interested in Hannah right now...still too early to tell, but I'm hoping she goes up the Atlantic and gets demolished by the colder water temps! Wish me luck because the MNSSHP we are attending is Sept 5, and we leave the next day so I have no margin of error if Hannah decides to visit Orlando while I'm there! :scared1:

[momsavealot]

I don't think anyone is attacking the photographers here! We are not complaining to them - one of them was nice enough, and brave enough, to come here and help us understand why the price increased. What we are trying to explain to her is that the price doesn't match the service! The PP CD is $125 for me to have pictures taken by PhotoPass Photographers at various locations throughout WDW. These photogs are not professionals - no prob, we get lots of pics, get to keep them all, and can edit/enhance them. Great! I have 2 PP CD's, and I like every pic on them for the most part - other than the one where my DH really needed to shave :rolleyes: but from what I am reading here - the resort portrait sessions are no better than the average park PhotoPass pictures, so why shouldn't they be included on my CD? Why should I have to pay more for them? Oh, you get more time with the photographer... ok $25, maybe $50. But an extra $75 for average PhotoPass pics? Huh? :confused3

Read this thread from the start - we were excited that they were adding additional locations, we were comfortable with $25 and most of us would do $50, then Disney started to change it.... $75... no enhancements... and we saw some examples of the product.

No one is attacking the photographers - it's not their call on what the prices should be or how the program should change, we get that. But they're being protrayed as one thing - and we're getting something else.

D4D

Thank you!! My point exactly! No one is attacking the photographers! They have no choice in price, location (I'm guessing) or equipment they're given. We're just giving our personal experiences so people going to Disney soon can learn from them. I can't tell you how much I have learnt from the Disboards! Thank God I had been watching this very thread. Because of it, I knew what poses I needed, what outfits I needed and what time appt. I should make. I think if people are deciding on whether to pay a certain price or whether to take precious time out of their park schedules to do this session, they want to know how it went for the rest of us. Let people post their experiences so the rest of us can decide in our own mind whether it's worth the price or not. That's the whole reason I love these boards because people are brutally honest and tell it like it is! I have seen photos earlier on this thread that are beautiful and I'm sure priceless to them. Unfortunately, it just didn't work for me! I think everyone should just chill and think happy Disney thoughts! Altho the portrait session didn't work well for me, I ended up with 1500 digital pics and a Photopass CD with nice family park photos, plenty to remember a wonderful vacation!:wizard:

[TaylorsDad]

Let me first say that I have only seen a couple of peoples "photo sessions" photos posted. I am a professional photographer and the photos that I have seen aren't professional quality. It takes a lot of experience, know how and God given talent to produce excellent photographs.

I'm assuming the people shooting these sessions are hired, given some training and boom they are photographers. Having a camera, no matter how nice a camera, does not make one a photographer. Don't expect the quality you would get from a professional photographer from these photo sessions, because you are not dealing with professional photographers, you are dealing with people who are hired to take pictures. There is a VERY big difference.

As a professional photographer perhaps you could give us an estimate of how much a professional quality photo session of 30 min and 50-60 photos would cost. Just curious.

[yrdlyprincess]

Let me first say that I have only seen a couple of peoples "photo sessions" photos posted. I am a professional photographer and the photos that I have seen aren't professional quality. It takes a lot of experience, know how and God given talent to produce excellent photographs.

I'm assuming the people shooting these sessions are hired, given some training and boom they are photographers. Having a camera, no matter how nice a camera, does not make one a photographer. Don't expect the quality you would get from a professional photographer from these photo sessions, because you are not dealing with professional photographers, you are dealing with people who are hired to take pictures. There is a VERY big difference.

I definitely agree with you, I got it done last year at GF, the pictures came out ok -hear me say OK, I didn't have to pay for it because it had just came out & got it on the promo, but there were some picutres that were TERRIBLE & some good, from the pictures I took at the park, some of mine were better than hers. I think it was great that someone was there to take pictures of "all of us" but I think my camera is just as good or better than theirs. I don't think I will do it this year if I have to pay (so much) and can't crop/add to the pictures (will anyone be down the time I am & take pictures of my faimly -I take pictures of your :-)

[parkers*momma]

Thanks, me too. I am very interested in Hannah right now...still too early to tell, but I'm hoping she goes up the Atlantic and gets demolished by the colder water temps! Wish me luck because the MNSSHP we are attending is Sept 5, and we leave the next day so I have no margin of error if Hannah decides to visit Orlando while I'm there! :scared1:

I'll send you extra pixie dust. We were there (MNSSHP) during Wilma and it is safe to say we were positively drenched when it blew in. It just so happened we were at the back of the park at the time and a total down pour before we made it to the bus.

pixiedust: for your Trip and MNSSHP

[parkers*momma]

:flower3: :flower3:

I can only express this for myself, but I'm hoping DiznEeyore can agree. Neither of us are angry...especially with each other...just the situation and the preception we have of a photo session.

I totally agree with photobob...just because you are given the equipment and training doesn't make you a professional photographer. If that's the case, we'd all be buying an operating room and becoming surgeons. But on the other hand, I know what our photographers charge here for a seating fee, proofs, etc and in my area...What WDW if offering isn't bad. But hey, I like saving money as much as the next guy and booked mine at the $25 with the CD.

The information I have recieved from Dis is a wealth I would never get anyplace else. Yes, we can be blunt as heck and for some of us, stand tight to our convictions and opinions. I've been around for several years but just recently had to start a new account because my account messed up and I could no longer log in....so I know Dis is a great place.

Comments can be read and mistakenly read at that. It can be read one way on a good day and then read a totally different way when we are having a bad day....maybe this was just a bad day:thumbsup2

anyway...no bad vibes here....just counting down till we arrive :)

[cherbear]

Actually, I don't have the CD yet, but I will post some pics when I get it back from Disney :)

thanks! I wonder if you'll get it within the next 2 weeks (before I leave)

[I~heart~Mickey]

Just wanted to share - It has probably been posted but here it is anyways!

www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitcdplan.aspx

[zurgswife]

Let me first say that I have only seen a couple of peoples "photo sessions" photos posted. I am a professional photographer and the photos that I have seen aren't professional quality. It takes a lot of experience, know how and God given talent to produce excellent photographs.

I'm assuming the people shooting these sessions are hired, given some training and boom they are photographers. Having a camera, no matter how nice a camera, does not make one a photographer. Don't expect the quality you would get from a professional photographer from these photo sessions, because you are not dealing with professional photographers, you are dealing with people who are hired to take pictures. There is a VERY big difference.

You are correct these are $8.50 per hour photographers. Very few have even close to what I would consider professional skills. I was fortunately our photographer was above the quality of others but she is the exception. For $25 I went into it just looking for a couple of shots of hubbie and I alone and in dresser clothes. NO other expectation. I was pleasantly surprised.

But no matter how you look at this the 30mins you spend with this photographer they are making $4.25 and Disney is making $70.75 for the sitting fee alone. A professional photographer makes a heck of alot more then what these photographers make. In the pay difference you get the quality that is missing from the Disney "Photographers". They may think that having these photographers present portfolios before they hire them, that they are getting quality photographers but I just don't believe the quality photographer is going to work for Disney for $8.50 per hour.

[pinkerbell]

I definitely agree with you, I got it done last year at GF, the pictures came out ok -hear me say OK, I didn't have to pay for it because it had just came out & got it on the promo, but there were some picutres that were TERRIBLE & some good, from the pictures I took at the park, some of mine were better than hers. I think it was great that someone was there to take pictures of "all of us" but I think my camera is just as good or better than theirs. I don't think I will do it this year if I have to pay (so much) and can't crop/add to the pictures (will anyone be down the time I am & take pictures of my faimly -I take pictures of your :-)


I have to say you are on the right track! our BEST photos from our vacations (including my computers wallpaper) have been taken by other GUESTS! I used to work at disney (MANY moons ago) and work at another park now. One thing that always stuck was when I see a family taking a shot less one (the picture taker) I always ask If they want me to take the photo so they can be in it. I have also found 99% of the time if I ask someone (unless they do not speak english) they will!

and fellow disboarders with Lime green mickeys are great!!


As a professional photographer perhaps you could give us an estimate of how much a professional quality photo session of 30 min and 50-60 photos would cost. Just curious.

I too would be interested to know this but want to add that the last time I had prof photos done (not at disney) it also included another piece of added value that I dont think has been mentioned here, profession developing... My photographs were professional printed using the latest techology to correct issues such as lighting, red eye etc.... to know the cost of just a session is not an accurate reflection since it does not include the additonal work after the photos are taken whcih may or may not be included in that price.

For me, the session was a good deal but given the short period of time, the roll of the dice on the photographer, the inability to add enhancements, the quality of photos from my last session, and that i do not know how to "corrcect" many of the problems (like our very DARK pics post 1136) I think the comparison of the often very hard working Session photographers and a professional is unfair and disney should not price it so as to set a higher expectation of their help that they in many cases cannot deliver.

It's a quantity vs quality issue really, the quantity may be there, but will the quality???

Mind you I am not flaming us for our discussion, as it was posted, we are all trying to help each other honestly with our experiences :)

I fault DISNEY for rasisng the price to a level where the expectations can be much higher than the result.



Good luck to all who go forward!!

[LilGMom]

Just wanted to share - It has probably been posted but here it is anyways!

www.disneyphotopass.com/previsitcdplan.aspx

FYI - the wording about a $25 photo session at the GF was still on the confirmation email as of yesterday. :) If they are going to honor that I say get the preordered cd while you can!!!!

[RadioFanatic]

FYI - the wording about a $25 photo session at the GF was still on the confirmation email as of yesterday. :) If they are going to honor that I say get the preordered cd while you can!!!!

where? I don't see it. Did you get a confirmation email for the photo session? I didn't from WL. I made the reservation two weeks ago!

[pjstevens]

where? I don't see it. Did you get a confirmation email for the photo session? I didn't from WL. I made the reservation two weeks ago!

This is the confirmation email for purchasing the CD before the trip. NOT the reservation for the photo shoot.

[LilGMom]

where? I don't see it. Did you get a confirmation email for the photo session? I didn't from WL. I made the reservation two weeks ago!

Like pjstevens said, the fine print was on the bottom of the confirmation email sent after preordering the Photopass CD and says "You must present a printed copy of this email to purchase a Resort portrait sitting for $25 at our Grand Floridian Resort location." So this is only good at GF. I preordered the cd yesterday morning and by lunch had the confirmation email.

I think I'll go ahead and tell the in-laws about this and have all of us get some pictures done in a couple of months.

[RadioFanatic]

Like pjstevens said, the fine print was on the bottom of the confirmation email sent after preordering the Photopass CD and says "You must present a printed copy of this email to purchase a Resort portrait sitting for $25 at our Grand Floridian Resort location." So this is only good at GF. I preordered the cd yesterday morning and by lunch had the confirmation email.

I think I'll go ahead and tell the in-laws about this and have all of us get some pictures done in a couple of months.

huh - I have that email (purchased a month ago) and it doesn't say anything like that on it.

[mjhd]

We are bringing only our carryons. We will be wearing Crocs there (all different colors) and then probably bringing athletic shoes. Question is what do we wear for the photo session? Can we do it barefoot? Thanks!

[mousebit]

huh - I have that email (purchased a month ago) and it doesn't say anything like that on it.

It's in the middle of the paragraph in very fine print at the bottom of the page - the Satisfaction Guarantee/Return Policy clause.

I had a hard time finding it too. And when I called to book my GF Photo Session the girl on the phone was very curt and impatient with me, saying I would not get the discount unless I brought the print out of this statement. But she was very vague about where the statement was or even exactly what it said. :confused3 So I told her I had no idea of what I was looking for, but she either couldn't help me find it or wouldn't...not sure which. All she would say is if you're eligible for the discount you should know...:headache: I finally enlarged the print on my computer so that I could read the fine print on my saved email. :rolleyes: :laughing:

[gr8tdame]

It is on the email you receive when you preorder the CD

I just pre-ordered the CD and about 5 minutes later I received 2 emails.
One confirming my purchase and the second one with my promotion code.
The email; with the Subject:[/COLOR] Do NOt Delete! Instructions for your Disney's Photo Cd at the bottom is printed:

Satisfaction Guarantee/Return Policy: By taking advantage of Disney's PhotoCD Pre-Arrival Savings Offer, you are guaranteed to get a great value on our most popular memory keepsake. This e-mail contains your Promotion Code. You will use that code to get all Disney's PhotoPass images in your account on an archive quality CD as well as a copyright release that allows you to reprint and use your images in the sizes and formats that you wish. You must order this CD after your vacation. This promotion code cannot be combined with any other offers. You must present a printed copy of this email to purchase a Resort portrait sitting for $25 at our Grand Floridian Resort location. If for any reason you are not satisfied with the photos and decide that you no longer want to order your Disney's PhotoCD, just let us know and you will receive a full refund. To receive a refund, you must request it within 2 weeks after the completion of your Disney vacation and you must not use the special promotion code to order Disney's PhotoCD. If the promotion code has been used, a refund will not be granted.

I booked my photo session @ the POlynesian last week for Sept 22 and was told to bring a copy of this email for the $25 sitting fee and it would be added to my photopass and that I would be able to edit and enhance all photos.

[disneymom1980]

Now I'm just confused. We're going in October, but I've already prepurchased my photopass cd, and the email does have the Grand Floridian statement at the bottom. Does that mean that we CAN get it for $25? We might do it if we can still get it for that.........we were planning on doing it at the Grand Floridian anyway.

[TPCShauna]

let me be the first to say that among all PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHERS WE ARE SORRY THAT EVERY ONE IS UPSET THAT THE PRICES WENT UP! =( when we heard the news, we knew it was not going to be pretty! :sad1:

Are people really cancelling b/c the prices went up? :sad2: why? b/c if you end up not being happy with your session you can DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT - that's what guest services are for. but if you are 100% happy then you lost nothing. :yay:

While I'm not delighted with the price increase, it is not preventing me from booking. The reason we most likely will not book is that we will not be able to get these photos added to our Photopass CD so that I can add enhancements to them.

If Disney had raised the price from $25 to $75 and left the service as is with the ability to combine with park photos and add enhancements, I don't think we would be experiencing the same level of outrage. There would be grumbling about the price increase but I feel that many would still pay it. It is the fact that the price was raised AND services reduced that has so many people angry.

Hopefully that helps you understand the pespective of the posters on this thread a bit better.

[Cheesehead66]

While I'm not delighted with the price increase, it is not preventing me from booking. The reason we most likely will not book is that we will not be able to get these photos added to our Photopass CD so that I can add enhancements to them.

If Disney had raised the price from $25 to $75 and left the service as is with the ability to combine with park photos and add enhancements, I don't think we would be experiencing the same level of outrage. There would be grumbling about the price increase but I feel that many would still pay it. It is the fact that the price was raised AND services reduced that has so many people angry.

Hopefully that helps you understand the pespective of the posters on this thread a bit better.


You put that perfectly, I've been thinking that all along reading this thread. Prices go up on everything everywhere, so going from $25 to $75 isn't the issue for my family. It is not being able to combine with park photos and enhance. Like I think a previous poster said, even if you have some shots that aren't fantastic, you could add some special Disney touches, so you were happier with the end product.

[kimisabella]

We are bringing only our carryons. We will be wearing Crocs there (all different colors) and then probably bringing athletic shoes. Question is what do we wear for the photo session? Can we do it barefoot? Thanks!

we did most of the photos barefoot, most of the pics were on the beach of the Poly, so I guess it would depend on where your shoot it - only the indoor pics we had our shoes on -

[mousebit]

Now I'm just confused. We're going in October, but I've already prepurchased my photopass cd, and the email does have the Grand Floridian statement at the bottom. Does that mean that we CAN get it for $25? We might do it if we can still get it for that.........we were planning on doing it at the Grand Floridian anyway.

Good question. You SHOULD by all rights be able to. Especially if the reason you prepurchased the photopass cd was specifically to get the bonus offer of the $25 photo session. Disney advertised it as a package deal and so long as they continue to do so they SHOULD have to honor what they've put out there, without changing the package price after the customer has made the purchase.

The problem may come when you call to schedule your photo session. I would expect you may have to haggle with the CM over the price, but maybe not. You could just keep telling them that you have the offer in writing in your confirmation email and you would expect them to honor that.

Good luck!

Hope everyone continues to post their pics! :goodvibes

[mjhd]

we did most of the photos barefoot, most of the pics were on the beach of the Poly, so I guess it would depend on where your shoot it - only the indoor pics we had our shoes on -

Thanks! We are doing it at the Poly as well.

[sbrotherton]

Talk about timing...just booked by the skin of my teeth. Prices go up as of Monday so I booked a session for our trip at the end of September. The CM on the phone (darling, by the way) told me if I needed to reschedule or tweak the time, just call back later. So...I still go the $99 CD preordered and go the $25 photo session at the GF just under the wire.

DH and I are taking DD2 with my parents. I am sure that Grandma will love the idea. I will have to endure the eye rolling of my father and husband. Isn't there some kind of law that prohibits eye rolling on vacation?

Thanks to all of you for posting such great info. I am so excited about this!

[niclmac]

What CM did you just speak to at the GF?? I am about to call and hope I get the Same one!!

[wendylovesdisney]

I would like to know if I called back if I could get this too!

[wendylovesdisney]

Okay - I just called and they told me if that if your email states the 25.00 part at the bottom they will honor the price - just bring it in! Yeah!
FYI - I asked if it had to be at the GF and they said NO - I could keep my Poly shoot too!

[macheath]

:cool1: Got my PP CD today! For those of you who were looking for WL PP pics, here are two:
http://i487.photobucket.com/albums/rr235/macheath_photos/WLPP.jpghttp://i487.photobucket.com/albums/rr235/macheath_photos/WLwfallPP.jpg

These are two of my best ones. There are some others, but I thought these may give you the best ideas of what colors/backgrounds you will be working with.
Hope this helps!

[lissiesmum]

did you get any shots inside at the WL? I have a session scheduled for this THursday, and of course, Hanna will be raining down on me after thinking I was ok all week. Just wondering if they take any good shots inside? PS, your outside pictures came out great!

[macheath]

did you get any shots inside at the WL? I have a session scheduled for this THursday, and of course, Hanna will be raining down on me after thinking I was ok all week. Just wondering if they take any good shots inside? PS, your outside pictures came out great!
Unfortunately, no. We did not get any inside pics.

I didn't think about it until it was over and then it hit me that we had no inside shots. I was a little disappointed by that.

As you can see by the first shot, Fay was rolling in.

We did have one pic taken on the bridge to the DVC villas (it is under a roof). Maybe that would be an option if it is raining. Or maybe they will let you reschedule to a clearer day. :confused3
Good luck on your photo shoot. I hope you enjoy and get some good shots.

[vanreg]

[QUOTE=parkers*momma;27219736]And if that was the case...$200....maybe ppl will hire a private photgrapher and crunch into Disney's profit margin. If you really want photographs and can hire a professional for $200 that will drive to WDW, have good photos, and all of the photos that they took, then I say go for it.

I am doing this for $275.....with a CD included and all rights to the pictures!

[lissiesmum]

Unfortunately, no. We did not get any inside pics.

I didn't think about it until it was over and then it hit me that we had no inside shots. I was a little disappointed by that.

As you can see by the first shot, Fay was rolling in.

We did have one pic taken on the bridge to the DVC villas (it is under a roof). Maybe that would be an option if it is raining. Or maybe they will let you reschedule to a clearer day. :confused3
Good luck on your photo shoot. I hope you enjoy and get some good shots.

I did see the looming black clouds in the background of that shot! I'm hoping that maybe that's all I will have is dark clouds. Maybe I'll call tomorrow and see if I can reschedule a few days earlier before Hanna hits...but I wonder if I'll lose the discount I got for booking before the deadline? :confused3 I guess it's worth a try! So if you did have indoor shots, you think there would have been some good areas for indoor pics?

[PrincessMommyof3]

http://i487.photobucket.com/albums/rr235/macheath_photos/WLwfallPP.jpg!

This is a nice shot. Too bad you didn't get any indoor shots.

[anthony2k7]

Okay - I just called and they told me if that if your email states the 25.00 part at the bottom they will honor the price - just bring it in! Yeah!
FYI - I asked if it had to be at the GF and they said NO - I could keep my Poly shoot too!

do you (or anyone else!?) know if us with suitable email will still be able to add the photos to our photopass account and there for add the enhancements/edit etc still? I'll be more than a little disappointed if we cant!

[momsavealot]

:cool1: Got my PP CD today! For those of you who were looking for WL PP pics, here are two:
http://i487.photobucket.com/albums/rr235/macheath_photos/WLPP.jpghttp://i487.photobucket.com/albums/rr235/macheath_photos/WLwfallPP.jpg

These are two of my best ones. There are some others, but I thought these may give you the best ideas of what colors/backgrounds you will be working with.
Hope this helps!

Great Photos!!! I like the border on the one too! I thought the first one looked like it was dusk not that a storm was coming in. Anyway, it's kinda cool that you got a memorable photo of Fay as well. At least, it wasn't raining! We had to reschedule b/c of Fay and they were very good about that! I took plenty of pics of Fay coming in from the balcony of our hotel - gotta scrapbook it! Thanks for posting the pics!!! I'm ordering my CD today so I hope I get it soon to post mine (trust me, not as good!)

[mousebit]

macheath - Just gotta say your WL photos are great! Worth every penny IMHO! Thanx for sharing them with us.

[daisylove]

FYI
I just pre-ordered my CD last night and received the email with the $25 portrait session at GF included in the fine print. I am hoping they will honor it when we go in November!!!

[cab333]

Daisylove - I ordered mine too, and I too will be pressing to have this offer honoured when I call to book our portrait session for mid october!
:cool1:

[macheath]

I did see the looming black clouds in the background of that shot! I'm hoping that maybe that's all I will have is dark clouds. Maybe I'll call tomorrow and see if I can reschedule a few days earlier before Hanna hits...but I wonder if I'll lose the discount I got for booking before the deadline? :confused3 I guess it's worth a try! So if you did have indoor shots, you think there would have been some good areas for indoor pics?

I'm not a professional photog by any means, so I don't know how the lighting would be for these suggestions...But,
I think pictures in front of that awesome fireplace would be cool. Also, the bridge in the lobby by the stream (for the life of me I can't think of it's name right now!) would be nice. There are probably others on this board that know WL better than I and can recommend some great spots. This was our 1st stay at WL- wish I could help you better on that!

I don't know about losing the discount. I have heard others say that they did not have a problem, but as with most of Disney, I think it boils down to the CM that you get and if they have had their daily sprinkle of pixie dust!:rotfl:

Good luck and have a great trip!

[macheath]

Great Photos!!! I like the border on the one too! I thought the first one looked like it was dusk not that a storm was coming in. Anyway, it's kinda cool that you got a memorable photo of Fay as well. At least, it wasn't raining! We had to reschedule b/c of Fay and they were very good about that! I took plenty of pics of Fay coming in from the balcony of our hotel - gotta scrapbook it! Thanks for posting the pics!!! I'm ordering my CD today so I hope I get it soon to post mine (trust me, not as good!)
Thanks I love the borders. I played around with them so much! That's what happens when you give a scrapbooker borders to play with! :laughing: It does sadden me that I have heard the new PP Resort CD will not let you do this. I took my pics to work last night and all my co-workers thought they were so neat!
Fay does play a part in the story of our trip and the pic will be a great way to remember it and tell the kids about our flight our of Orlando in the storm :eek: OT- I am thinking about everyone in Gustav's path and praying for you all! Stay safe

macheath - Just gotta say your WL photos are great! Worth every penny IMHO! Thanx for sharing them with us.

Thanks, Barb! I have to say overall, I am pleased as well. I do have some pics that our not very good at all, but for $25, I think it was well worth it!

[disneymom1980]

Okay - I just called and they told me if that if your email states the 25.00 part at the bottom they will honor the price - just bring it in! Yeah!
FYI - I asked if it had to be at the GF and they said NO - I could keep my Poly shoot too!

Thank you so much for checking on this! I guess we will go ahead and do the photoshoot as planned then. As I said, we were going to do it at GF anyway because we'll be there for dinner at 1900 Park Fare.

Thanks again!

[CEK40]

Hi :wave2:
Sorry for all the questions, you think I should know all this stuff as many times as we have been to WDW, but things just keep changing everyday.:eek: I just want to make sure I have this info down right in my head.

So when you preorder your photopass before you leave for your visit, they send you e-mail confirmations and such.

Then when you get to WDW you still get a photopass card and have the photos that you talk while you are there loaded on the card.

After you get home you go online and put in your special code and download the photopass pictures on it. :surfweb: At that time you can edit and add boarders and such, then you order your actual CD and they send it to you. Is that correct?

Now after tomorrow, if you want to get the Special Resort Photo Sessions done it is a seperate thing now and has nothing to do with the actual Photopass any longer and the cost is $75.00? Since DH and I will not be arriving until 10/25 we can't make an appointment for the Special Resort Session until 09/25 (30 days prior), is that correct?

It sounds confusing :confused3 but I know it isn't really. I would really like to get the Resort Session done for DH and I since we will be celebrating our 27th Anniversary and our first ever trip to WDW without all the family in tow,:woohoo: we are empty nesters now.:sad:

Also do they have photopass photographers out during the MNSSHP? We will be going to that on 10/28, this is so exciting to me, can't hardly wait. :yay:

Again thank :thanks: you all for all your help and information, it is just great here.:disrocks:

[DisneyJo]

:cool1: Got my PP CD today! For those of you who were looking for WL PP pics, here are two Great photos.


We had a session last week at the Poly and got over 100 photos, lots of good ones too, I'll post once my CD comes :thumbsup2

[macheath]

Great photos.


We had a session last week at the Poly and got over 100 photos, lots of good ones too, I'll post once my CD comes :thumbsup2
Thank you!

I've loved looking at everyone's Poly pics. Can't wait to see yours!

[chris4disney]

Okay - I just called and they told me if that if your email states the 25.00 part at the bottom they will honor the price - just bring it in! Yeah!
FYI - I asked if it had to be at the GF and they said NO - I could keep my Poly shoot too!

How confident do you feel with the answer they gave you about it NOT having to be a GF? We've done the GF shoot already and would prefer to try the BC this time. If they are honoring the $25.00 price as long as you have a printed confirmation, are they still going to give you your photos on another photopass card to add to your Park preordered CD? There for be able to enhance them with borders?

[pmama]

Just preordered the CD today and I don't see anything about a photoshoot on my confirmation email.

[virginiamama]

Just preordered the CD today and I don't see anything about a photoshoot on my confirmation email.

Check your second email from photopass. It is below the dark line near the bottom of the page. I just ordered a few minutes ago. I sure hope they'll honor the $25 price in November.

[pmama]

Check your second email from photopass. It is below the dark line near the bottom of the page. I just ordered a few minutes ago. I sure hope they'll honor the $25 price in November.

Yep, you're right. I did get it in the 2nd email. Thanks.:thumbsup2

[ChristusG]

This is a joke. I'm a photographer and there is no crazy way that I'm paying that much for non-professional photos. I mean, any ol' joe can take photos like these.

I was a bit hesitant about prepaying the $100 for the Photo Pass CD (which we rarely use cause we rarely see the photopass "photographers") and then paying $25 for the photo shoot.....but I was going to do it just so that I could be in some photos with my family. I was just going to hope and pray we got a decent photographer.

But now, no way. $100 for the CD that I dont need.....and then $75 sitting fee for a non-professional photographer. No thanks, I'll pay that much right here in town and get nicely lit, non blurry photos. Maybe no castle....but I can do that myself at Disney. And for much better quality than the so called photographers.

[LilGMom]

Does anyone have the link for the DIS thread that shows peoples' pictures from the various resort photo sessions? I must have deleted my subscribtion to it.

TIA

[mainstreet1997]

Does anyone have the link for the DIS thread that shows peoples' pictures from the various resort photo sessions? I must have deleted my subscribtion to it.

TIA

Its this thread but you have to back up...if i remember correctly there are quite a few pictures around page 33 but there are examples scattered through out the thread.

Happy hunting!
Katie

[daisylove]

Check your second email from photopass. It is below the dark line near the bottom of the page. I just ordered a few minutes ago. I sure hope they'll honor the $25 price in November.

Me Too!!!

[Dznefreek]

This is a joke. I'm a photographer and there is no crazy way that I'm paying that much for non-professional photos. I mean, any ol' joe can take photos like these.

I was a bit hesitant about prepaying the $100 for the Photo Pass CD (which we rarely use cause we rarely see the photopass "photographers") and then paying $25 for the photo shoot.....but I was going to do it just so that I could be in some photos with my family. I was just going to hope and pray we got a decent photographer.

But now, no way. $100 for the CD that I dont need.....and then $75 sitting fee for a non-professional photographer. No thanks, I'll pay that much right here in town and get nicely lit, non blurry photos. Maybe no castle....but I can do that myself at Disney. And for much better quality than the so called photographers.

I agree. I looked at all the photos and while the families all look nice the photos are nothing spectacular. No disrepect to anyone just my opinion.

[sbrotherton]

OK...I just read this entire thread. Well not "just" read. Put it this way, if I had been paid (even the meager hourly rate these phtographers are paid), I could have paid for the photo shoot even after the price increase...even without the prepurchased photopass CD. LOL!

Well...I have learned a lot since looking at the early postings of the thread to get an idea of what the photos look like. Most disappointing is the fact that we can't enhance the photos anymore. I'm hoping that we can make some changes like cropping and changing to B&W before they burn the CD. Oh well as my DH says, "It's vacation..." I'm not going to sweat it. I will, however, make it my mission to make certain that we hunt down enough park PP photographers to make the prepurchased CD without my photoshoot photos worthwhile.

[TINKERBELLFAN50265]

Check your second email from photopass. It is below the dark line near the bottom of the page. I just ordered a few minutes ago. I sure hope they'll honor the $25 price in November.

Thanks for the information as to where to find the $25 sitting fee. I purchased the CD last night hoping it was in the e-mail, but didn't see it until you told me where to look. It's in the fine print at the bottom with the guarantee information.

We weren't going to do the resort photo shoot if it was more than $25. Now we'll be able to do it afterall. :cool1:

[wendylovesdisney]

How confident do you feel with the answer they gave you about it NOT having to be a GF?

Well, I asked the cm on the phone if it would be okay, and he told me that it was, and he called the Poly to tell them. He actually called me back at home to tell me I was "all set".

[wendylovesdisney]

I will, however, make it my mission to make certain that we hunt down enough park PP photographers to make the prepurchased CD without my photoshoot photos worthwhile.


For me it is worth it because we are going to the BBB and they take pics as the girls are being "made up" and then after.

[Ohana90]

huh - I have that email (purchased a month ago) and it doesn't say anything like that on it.

Its on the Do Not Delete email all the way at the bottom in the Satisfacation Gurantee/REturn Policy

[Ohana90]

Okay,
I just called and spoke to a rep with Photopass at the Poly. I was able to get the $25.00 fee as long as I brought the email.:cool1:
But unfortunately will not be able to add the enhancements. I inquired as to why they took that away and she stated it was causing delays due to the long lines of people waiting to add their enhancements. But I can still add them to my Park pics. I am okay with that I guess. I have editing software at home so i'll just make my own ;)

[anthony2k7]

Okay,
I just called and spoke to a rep with Photopass at the Poly. I was able to get the $25.00 fee as long as I brought the email.:cool1:
But unfortunately will not be able to add the enhancements. I inquired as to why they took that away and she stated it was causing delays due to the long lines of people waiting to add their enhancements. But I can still add them to my Park pics. I am okay with that I guess. I have editing software at home so i'll just make my own ;)

That makes no sense! Why cant they just say you can only add enhancements at home and still let people add them to their normal photo pass account?