Hi there, Elizabeth!
Just this very morning I had this same debate with my oldest daughter, who is bringing her son for his very first
Walt Disney World vacation this November. I was always the mom when my girls were growing up that had the big camera, and my camera accessories bag was easily as big as the kids' diaper bags when they were very small.
While I want to be able to capture my grandson's very first oooohhhh and aaaaahhhhh moments, I don't want to miss them because I'm behind a camera lens. I cherish many of those photos I took of my kids with my nicer camera, but I regret worrying about taking it on attractions or running back and forth to a locker, when I should have been enjoying the special moments with my family.
I can't say whether it's a good idea for you, but I do know that when my grandson takes his first walk (well, stroller ride, since he's still small) into the
Magic Kingdom theme park, my eyes will be on him as he looks at Cinderella Castle for the first time - not trying to get a good angle or work with lighting. I've learned that in most cases, if I can't take it with my cell phone, I probably don't need it.
And - here's the best thing of all -
Disney's PhotoPass Service will really capture as many magical moments as you want them to. This gives you photos of all the best memories while you still get to be a part of them.
I hope you have an absolutely magic packed, pixie dusted very first trip with your little princess!
Anna