Introducing kids to photography


kids

Photography is a great art form to introduce kids to: it isn’t messy, fantastic results can be achieved from day one, and the results will be treasured for years to come. Check out our top tips below:

Equipment

It is important that your kids have the right equipment for their age and skill level – expensive devices may be overly complicated and prone to damage when it comes to smaller members of the family, while basic models are unlikely to inspire older children.

For the littlest hands, VTech Kidizoom models are recommended. The Kidizoom Twist Plus is made for three to nine-year olds, boasting a robust and easy-to-hold casing, integrated games and accessibility to the VTech Learning Lodge.

When it comes to older kids, compact point-and-shoot cameras are the way to go. Teens will love the range of colours on offer in the Nikon Coolpix range at Jessops, as well as available features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows them to easily share snaps on social networks like Facebook.

No matter what their age, you should provide kids with a case that will help to protect their device, as well as a memory card with plenty of storage capacity – you don’t want limited gigabytes to hinder their creativity!

Another accessory that could be really useful is the GorillaPod: a compact, flexible tripod that can be attached to tree branches, balanced on mountains and more.  Use your judgement to determine whether your little one will be able to use it without risking damage of their camera.

Skills                                                  

 photography

The crucial thing when introducing kids to photography is letting them have fun. Don’t get bogged down in photography skills too soon, or when they’re too young. Encourage experimentation and imagination, and great shots will be captured regardless of technical knowledge.

Show them all the different ways you can take pictures – by using different angles, getting up close, focusing on different types of subjects – and encourage trips to new environments like zoos or forests. That way, they’re sure to have a lot of fun and create a varied and interesting portfolio.

However, there are a few basic skills it’s worth showing your kids: how to keep the frame straight, how to hold the camera steady and how to use the viewfinder and flash. If their interest increases, you can show them more techniques or even enrol them in a kids’ photography class.

A great way to improve your little ones’ photography while enjoying quality family time is to take a look at their snaps together. You can simply scroll through them on the computer and share comments and listen to their stories, or even print them out and make collages.

We have plenty of other kids’ craft ideas that could be used in combination with the little ones’ prints. Scrapbooks, decorated frames and many other projects make fantastic gifts for family members and friends.

 

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