Two trips ago I purchased the regular photopass, which does not include ride pictures. I loved it. I am usually the one taking the pictures, so it was nice to actually be in them. Then last trip we got memory maker. I love that it has all the ride photos. We don't do character meals with pictures, so I can't really say anything about that.
I am super looking forward to our next trip because now the ride pics are automatic with the magic band, you don't have to stop at the counter. I always worried a little about giving my boys the card when I didn't ride.
Here's the thing, you have to be willing to get the pictures. I almost never walk pass a photographer. Okay, I don't stop at EVERY one on main street, since they are usually about every 50 feet or so
If there is a line, wait, they usually move quickly. And I go at Christmas/New Years, so the lines don't get longer than that. Get pictures in different parks, and different areas around the parks. Also, just because you already have a picture on main street, doesn't mean you shouldn't stop for another. If it's a different day, you are probably wearing different clothes, different angle, etc. Sometimes one shot will come out better than another.
Then when you get home you can edit. They have cool borders and effects, you can add the year. One character shots you can usually add a signature from the character.
For me it is totally worth it, I will get it again every time I go. Besides, $150 is less than some of the meals we are going to. In the bigger scheme of things, at WDW, $150 isn't that much for memories you can keep forever.
PS I also get the star card at Universal.
