Memory Maker worth it for 3 days

[CorbinX3]

We will only be in the parks for 3 days this trip. Do you think the memory maker package is worth the money for that short of time? For those of you who do the memory maker do you still take your own camera or do you rely on the park photographers? Thanks!

 

[PerfessorZ]

We will only be in the parks for 3 days this trip. Do you think the memory maker package is worth the money for that short of time? For those of you who do the memory maker do you still take your own camera or do you rely on the park photographers? Thanks!

We sprung for an annual pass, in part because it included Memory Maker. After having it, I can say that I was glad we did. We got some fun ride photos and not having to carry a camera around with us was nice - carrying around even a medium sized backpack to hold all our Disney "essentials" can be uncomfortable and awkward, so dropping weight and bulk makes for a more enjoyable day. We used our phone to take pictures when there were no official photographers around and let them take photos when there were.

Sometimes there were lines for good picture spots, but I don't think we ever waited more than a few minutes to get our photo taken anywhere that wasn't with a character, and frankly, sometimes you need a couple minutes to check out a map and plan your next ride or meal or locate the nearest bathroom.

That said, if budget is an issue, there may be things you'd rather spend that money on, like a special dinner or holiday party. There are ways to get some of the benefits of Memory Maker by paying less or not at all. Not everyone knows it, but you can ask any photographer to take a photo with your camera at every photo spot. In my experience, the photos don't always come out as well as the skill level of the photography corp at Disney can vary quite a bit and they may have never used a camera like yours before. I've had some blurry and poorly exposed photos taken with my dSLR because (I'm guessing) the photographer was only used to using the standard issue Nikons and my Canon seemed utterly foreign to her. But I've had some good photos taken as well. And since they will always shoot with their cameras as well, if the one they shot with their camera comes out way better, you have the option of paying for that image a la carte - which may save you $ over the MM package if there are only a few images you really want anyway. All photos will be linked to your magic bands and thus, your MDE account. You'll have the option to review them and purchase them all later (for $30 more than if you pre-purchase MM) or like I said, a la carte (or not at all!)

So I say go with your gut on whether you think it'll be worth it. You're probably right! But DO take advantage of the park photographers - getting all your group in the photos is a *must*. You don't want 20 years from now your kids wondering why you didn't come with them on that Disney trip because they don't see you in any of the photos .