What's the deal with Marathonfoto? We've talked and they've listened!
As you are running along a Run Disney course, you will see photographers in bright yellowish vest taking pictures. Try to smile as you go past ( or at least try not to look completely exhausted) because these will be your official race pictures.
Marathonfoto is the official race photographer for many larger races. I'm always getting e-mails to buy my official race pictures, and I never do because quite honestly they are a bit expensive and the real reason is there are usually no pictures of me. I don't mean there are no "good pictures" I mean I must not be photogenic or I must escape the photographers because they always seem to miss me!
That was until last year at the Disney's Royal Family 5K. I actually had some pictures so I bought the official download ( and I got a $20 Shutterfly card for free). But here was the problem, I was running with my family, and I wanted pictures of them too, not just of myself.
I thought, there has got to be a better way of purchasing race pictures that doesn't break the bank. (Especially when you are running with your family) Can you imagine the cost for a family running the 5K with 3 little kids? They would have to buy 3 photo packages! ( Last year they were around $50 for the complete download for ONE runner)
This was my thought: If someone purchases the complete download, they should be able to add (lets say 5) additional pictures to their account. That means if you are running with your family, you could buy your own race pictures, and then add in a few from your spouse's account or your child's account ( if he/she is running the 5k with you). Wouldn't that be nice? ( of course if all of you are in the same shot, than that picture will go into each person's account that is present).
Fortunately for me, I talked to the Marathonfoto people and I was able to add a picture of my dad crossing the finish line to my account.
So after talking with them about photos for the 2014 Princess weekend here is the deal!
1. If you are signed up for the PHM weekend of races, you will get an email (around Feb 7-10) with a coupon offer. You will have to buy the coupon for $65 but it will be worth $100. This $100 can go towards any Marathonfoto purchase for that event.
2. If you are running the Glass Slipper Challenge ( 10K and Half). You have the opportunity to purchase a picture download package. I was told by a Marathonfoto rep that this would be the same as what they did for the Dopey Challenge and that the price would be $114 without video and $134 with video. I did remind the rep that the Glass Slipper Challenge is only 2 event and not 4 (like the Dopey) and wondered if the price would be less. He said that he would imagine it might be, but didn't know for sure. I'm thinking the rep was including pics from the entire race weekend (including the 5K but then again, that's only 3 races not 4). I will update you all when there is more clear information on this!
3. If you are not participating in all 3 events, you can buy your 5K, 10K, or half picture packages separately. The price that was quoted to me was "about $60".
4. Your race pictures will be available 42-72 hours after each event. (But you'll want to check back in a couple of days because usually there are more pictures to be entered).
5. You can certainly purchase a single picture download ($24.95). But for the price, you might as well buy all of the entire download for $60!
6. You can also buy the actual photo which will be mailed to you (starting at $14.95 for 5x7 and $20.95 for 8x10).
* Reminder: These are not Disney photo pass photographers. Any pictures/picture downloads that you purchase in the park are completely separate.
HINTS: Unless you REALLY have to have those photos right away, I wouldn't be so eager to buy them right away. I usually get e-mails a few weeks/month later offering me discounts if I want to purchase my pictures ( especially when a holiday comes up).
If you do decided to buy the complete picture download, don't be afraid to ask them to add a picture (or two) of another family member who was also running with you. They will work with you on this!
That about sums it up. Of course the best bet is to always bring your own camera with you on the course!
Do you have any other questions about race photos? What's your best tip on getting good race photos?
If you'd like more information on Character photo stops during the Half Marathon, Check out Julie's Post on Character photos at Run Walk Fast Pass Repeat!
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