Diswithkids Disney Blog

First, for a very quick recap - Disney Memory Maker costs $169 and gives you unlimited access to professional photographers who will digitally document your family's entire vacation experience with the simply swipe of your magic bands.  Be sure to check out our earlier blog post What is Disney Memory Maker for more info and details.

Disney Memory Maker is like having your very own vacation paparazzi!  So you'll want to take advantage of this red carpet treatment.

Here are some tips to help your family get the most for your money as well as dazzling photographs....

• Mark your Calendar - Life happens! As soon as your purchase your Memory Maker package, place reminders on your calendar.  Guests only have access to their Memory Maker photos for 45 days from the time the pictures were taken.  Give yourself PLENTY of time to review, edit, share and download all of your pictures before they are gone.
• Make a ton of Photo op stops - Disney photographers are located at hundreds of locations in all of the parks. Download and use the photo op maps found in the My Disney Experience App.  Your Vacationkids travel agent will help you plan daily park itineraries with time to enjoy your photo ops.
• Pick unusual photo op spots - Yes, everyone needs a castle pose but use your app map to discover some unusual or off the beaten path back drops for your memory maker pics.
• Ready, Stead, Smile - Be prepared when it's your turn to have your picture taken. Don't wait until the very last minute to apply make up or take your jacket off. Be kind to other guests who are waiting.
• Use Your own phone/camera - Hand over your phone or camera to any Disney photographer and ask them to snap another picture. This way you'll have a fun shot to share immediately on social media as well as a back up photograph.
• Plan an Early morning Character breakfast - Photographers are set up in the park prior to rope drop (park opening). If you have an early morning dining reservation this is the perfect opportunity to get that iconic main street castle photo without including a multitude of strangers.
• Practice with your kids - Practice makes perfect so let your kids know that you will be stopping for family photos. This may save you some on the spot melt downs. Practice poses...oh and BTW...saying the word "Thursday" instead of the normal "Cheeze" usually results in better looking smiles.
• Scream or Smile BIG - Memory maker includes wireless photos snapped while your on some attractions. It's a good idea to keep a record of the ID number on these pictures because wireless technology isn't always perfect.

          Space Mountain
          Splash Mountain
          Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
          The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (Pic & video)
          Rock ‘n Roller Coaster
          Test Track
          Expedition Everest
          Dinosaur
          Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (Pic & video)

• Props are fun - Balloons, shirts, masks, silly hats and of course the iconic Mickey Ears are a fun way to spice up any typical picture.
• Don't fear the weather - Just go for it! Sometimes these pictures are the most memorable.
• Use your Fast Passes - This will help with high priority character shots
• Character meals - Memory Maker Photographers are on the scene at these character dining spots. These dining experiences offer a relaxed setting with no line waiting so very beneficial for families with little ones:

• Mind Your Manners -  During character meets, be alert, prepared and respectful to others waiting for their turn
• Catch your kid's eye - When doing kids solo shots, chances are their eyes and attention will wander all around them. Parents can help kids look straight at the camera by everyone standing directly BEHIND the photographer. Making Mickey ears, magic tricks, weird noises or silly faces always helps too. Don't be afraid to show "Your Disney Side".
• Ask for Magic Shots - These are superimposed Disney characters, special effects or animations that your photographer can add to your photos so be sure to request them - why not they're free. 
• Wardrobe changes - If you're a fashion fanatic or have children who are dirt seeking missiles, you may want to pack some costume changes or plan on buying some souvenir clothing while at the park.
• Be Creative - Have fun with your photo ops. Use unique poses or feature your child's security blanket. These will be fun memories in years to come.
• Something to do while waiting -  Use your photo to review photos while waiting in line for attractions. It's a good way to distract the kids.

 Making the most of your Memory Maker package will insure all the magical experiences your family shared together at Disney world will remain fresh in your mind for many years to come.  This is our idea of a perfect souvenir.