Say cheese, Muggles, Minions, and Marvel fans! Whether you’re soaring through the skies on E.T.’s bike, having your soul scared out of you by a raptor, or casting spells in Diagon Alley – Universal Studios Florida is bursting with picture-perfect moments. But how do you capture them all without juggling your phone, a wand, a churro, and three kids? Enter: the Universal Photo Pass Package, also known as My Universal Photos, your one-way ticket to professionally captured park memories (without the awkward thumb-in-frame shots from Uncle Bob). Let’s break it down and see if it’s worth adding to your next Universal adventure!
Back History (Quick Flashback, No Time Machine Required)
Universal’s photo service has evolved over the years. What started with a few on-ride snapshots and photographers roaming the park has transformed into a full-blown, photo-loving experience powered by My Universal Photos, partnered with Amazing Pictures. It’s now streamlined, digital, and yes, social-media ready faster than you can say “Butterbeer moustache”.
What is Universal’s Photo Pass Anyway?
Universal’s Photo Pass, officially called My Universal Photos, is a service that allows you to download, share, and print unlimited photos taken by Universal’s professional photographers and ride cameras during your visit.
You’ll spot photographers in iconic locations like:
- The Hogwarts Express and Hogsmeade
- Jurassic World raptor encounter
- Transformers Meet & Greet
- Entrance of the parks with that legendary Universal globe
- Character greetings with the Minions, Scooby-Doo crew, and more!
Plus, your ride photos from:
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- The Incredible Hulk Coaster
- Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Revenge of the Mummy
- Men in Black Alien Attack (my personal favourite, especially when someone accidentally shoots their teammate…)
Photo Pass Packages: What’s Included & How Much?
Here’s a look at the different options and what each includes (prices as of 2025, always check the official site for the latest!):
Package | What You Get | Price (approx.) |
1-Day Photo Package | Unlimited digital photos for one day + My Universal Photos lanyard and card. | $69.99 |
3-Day Photo Package | Unlimited digital photos for three consecutive days + lanyard and card | $89.99 |
Annual Passholder Photo Add-On | Year long access for Annual Passholders (Premier, Preferred or Power Pass only) | $99.99/year |
Single Photo Download | One photo only, digital download | $19.95 each |
Pro Tip: If you plan to grab just a few photos, the single download price adds up fast. Go for the package if you think you’ll want more than three or four images.
Pros of Using the Photo Pass
1. Hands-Free Happiness
No more fumbling for your phone mid-ride or missing the moment. The pros have it covered, you just enjoy the experience.
2. High-Quality Images
These are not your grainy, phone-in-pocket pics. These are sharp, well lit, theme park glamour shots.
3. Magic Moments Captured
From your kid hugging a Minion to that awkward mid-scream rollercoaster face, these are moments you’ll want to keep (and possibly frame… or at least tease your family with later).
4. Unlimited Downloads
No choosing between your daughter’s wand pose and your epic Hulk face. Download them all.
5. Instant Sharing
Photos are uploaded to your account and accessible via the My Universal Photos app or website, ready to flood your social feeds with theme park joy.
Cons to Consider
1. The Price Tag
It’s an add-on cost, and while it can be great value, it’s not ideal if you only plan to take a few pictures or skip thrill rides.
2. Limited Locations
Not every ride or character has a photographer. You won’t find photos from VelociCoaster or Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, sadly, probably because your face is too wind whipped to be recognisable anyway.
3. It’s Not Transferable
Only one person in your group can scan their card at a time. So if you’re splitting up, you’ll need to coordinate or buy multiple packages.
A Personal Story Worth a Frame
On one trip, I convinced the family to meet a raptor at Islands of Adventure (yes, they are braver than me). The look on our daughter’s face when the raptor jumped? Priceless (but I seem to have a habit of creating turmeric memories for my children, while at Universal). That photo is now framed on our wall of fame… right next to the one of me screaming on Rip Ride Rockit while unknowingly picking Limp Bizkit as my ride soundtrack. Worth every penny.
If you’re planning your Universal vacation and want to make every scream, smile, and spell last forever, consider pre-ordering your My Universal Photos package. You’ll save time at the park and maximise your photo opportunities.
Also, don’t forget to check out our full Universal Orlando planning guide to get the most out of your trip!
Recap
- My Universal Photos offers unlimited downloads of ride and character photos
- Great value if you plan to take lots of pictures or visit multiple days
- Multiple packages available, from 1-day to year-long options
- Look for ride cameras and roaming photographers around the park
- A fantastic way to make your memories last long after you’ve left the park
Final Thoughts
When the sun sets over Universal and your feet are sore from a day of fun, there’s nothing better than reliving those moments in high-def glory. The Photo Pass isn’t for everyone, but if you’re all about the memories (and let’s be honest, the humblebrag Instagram post), then it’s well worth considering.
Leave a comment below. Are you Team Photo Pass or Team Smartphone Snapper? Got a favourite ride photo story? Share it, especially if it involves a wild roller coaster face!
