Is Disney+ Memory Maker Worth It? An Expert’s Deep Dive

The short answer? For most families visiting Walt Disney World or Disneyland, the Disney Memory Maker is absolutely worth its weight in pixie dust. It’s a game-changer for capturing those magical moments without being glued to your phone or constantly asking strangers for photos. It offers incredible value for the right traveler, but the “right traveler” part is key, which we’ll unravel here.

Unveiling the Magic: What Exactly IS Memory Maker?

Forget blurry selfies and awkwardly angled shots. Memory Maker is Disney’s photo service that allows you unlimited digital downloads of all photos and videos taken by Disney’s PhotoPass photographers, as well as select attraction photos and videos. Think of it as your personal, invisible paparazzi team, snapping away while you focus on experiencing the magic.

The Price Point: Breaking Down the Cost

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – the cost. As of today’s date, the Memory Maker package usually runs around $169 if purchased in advance (at least 3 days before your trip) and $199 if purchased during or after your vacation. This might seem steep, but consider the potential cost of individual photo prints (which can easily add up to hundreds of dollars) and the sheer convenience of having professional-quality images automatically linked to your My Disney Experience account. Think of it as an investment in lasting memories, rather than just a simple purchase.

Beyond the Photos: Exclusive Magic Shots and More

Memory Maker isn’t just about standard photos. It unlocks access to Magic Shots, where Disney characters are digitally added to your images, creating whimsical and unforgettable scenes. Imagine Tinkerbell perched on your hand, or Olaf giving you a warm hug! You also get access to ride photos and videos (on select attractions), providing a dynamic and thrilling reminder of your adventures.

Who Benefits Most from Memory Maker?

• Families with young children: Let’s face it: wrangling kids for photos is a Herculean task. Memory Maker allows you to capture those fleeting, authentic moments without the added stress of pulling out your phone every two seconds.
• First-time visitors: Disney World and Disneyland are overwhelming! Memory Maker is one less thing to worry about, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
• Large groups: Coordinating group photos can be a nightmare. With Memory Maker, everyone gets a copy of all the photos, simplifying the sharing process.
• Frequent visitors: Even if you’ve been to Disney countless times, Memory Maker offers a fresh perspective and captures new memories each visit.
• Those who prioritize memories over money: if you have the disposable income to spend on this, it’s a wonderful way to remember your trip.

Who Might Want to Skip Memory Maker?

• Solo travelers or couples who don’t take many photos: If you’re not big on photography or prefer to take your own snapshots, Memory Maker might not be worth the investment.
• Guests with limited park time: If you’re only spending a day or two in the parks, you might not have enough opportunities to utilize Memory Maker to its full potential.
• Those on a very tight budget: While Memory Maker offers value, it’s still an additional expense. If you’re trying to save every penny, you might want to prioritize other aspects of your trip.
• Those who are extremely photo-shy: If you actively avoid being photographed, Memory Maker might not be the service for you!
• Those who refuse to use the Disney app: This is where you access and download your pictures, and without it, the tool is fairly useless.

Maximizing Your Memory Maker Investment: Pro Tips

• Find PhotoPass photographers: They’re everywhere! Near iconic landmarks, character meet-and-greets, and even roaming around the parks.
• Ask for Magic Shots: Don’t be afraid to request them. The photographers usually have a variety of poses and characters to choose from.
• Ride photos and videos: Remember to check which attractions offer ride photos and videos and link them to your account.
• Download your photos promptly: You have a limited time to download your photos before they expire. Don’t wait until the last minute!
• Share with family and friends: Memory Maker allows you to share your photos with others, so everyone can relive the magic.
• Wear matching outfits: It makes the photographs look even better!

Memory Maker: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I link my photos to Memory Maker?

You can link your photos in a few ways: by scanning your MagicBand, park ticket, or Memory Maker card with the PhotoPass photographer. The photos will then be automatically linked to your My Disney Experience account.

2. How long do I have to download my Memory Maker photos?

You typically have 45 days from the date the photo was taken to download it. Make sure to download them before they expire!

3. Can I share my Memory Maker with family and friends?

Yes! You can add family and friends to your My Disney Experience account and share your Memory Maker photos with them. They will be able to view and download the photos as well.

4. What happens if a ride photo doesn’t show up in my account?

Sometimes, ride photos don’t automatically link to your account. You can visit the PhotoPass website or app and manually search for the photo using the date, time, and attraction name. If you still can’t find it, contact Disney PhotoPass guest services.

5. Can I purchase Memory Maker after my trip?

Yes, but it will cost the full price of $199. Purchasing it in advance (at least 3 days before your trip) saves you money.

6. Are there any blackout dates for Memory Maker?

No, there are no blackout dates. You can use Memory Maker any day of the year.

7. What if I don’t like a photo? Can I delete it?

Yes, you can delete photos from your Memory Maker collection. However, keep in mind that once you delete a photo, it cannot be recovered.

8. Does Memory Maker include prints?

No, Memory Maker only includes digital downloads. If you want prints, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

9. Are there any discounts on Memory Maker?

Sometimes, Disney offers discounts on Memory Maker for certain groups, such as Annual Passholders or Disney Vacation Club members. Check the Disney website or your membership information for potential discounts.

10. Can I use Memory Maker at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland?

No, Memory Maker is specific to either Walt Disney World or Disneyland. You’ll need to purchase a separate Memory Maker package for each location.

11. What if my MagicBand malfunctions?

If your MagicBand malfunctions, you can still link your photos using your park ticket or Memory Maker card. Alternatively, you can ask the PhotoPass photographer to manually link the photos to your My Disney Experience account.

12. Is Memory Maker worth it if I’m traveling solo?

It depends. If you are comfortable asking PhotoPass photographers to take your picture and will stop frequently to do so, it might be worth it. If you don’t want a lot of photos or don’t want to take the time to stop, it may not be a good investment for you.

The Verdict: Is Memory Maker Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase Memory Maker is a personal one. Weigh the cost against the benefits, consider your travel style and photography preferences, and determine if it aligns with your vacation goals. For many families, the convenience, quality, and lasting memories make Memory Maker a worthwhile investment. It allows you to focus on the magic, knowing that your memories are being captured professionally, creating a treasure trove of images to cherish for years to come. And isn’t that what a Disney vacation is all about?