How to Use a Camera for Young People
- 1). Buy the right camera. Do your research and choose a camera that is age appropriate. For toddlers, buying a durable camera is essential. Toy cameras are built to withstand the antics of a young child and can be bumped, dropped and doused with water without breaking. For example, the Fisher-Price Kid-Tough Camera is inexpensive, and the low-resolution photos are adequate to please a small child. For older children who are more responsible, buying a rugged camera is ideal, as it has the same features as other cameras, such as zoom, LCD screen and higher resolution, yet is shock-proof in case of accidents.
- 2). Demonstrate the correct grip. Children must learn to hold the camera correctly to ensure the best outcome. Holding the camera firmly between their thumbs and fingers with the right index finger loosely placed over the shoot button will prevent accidental drops and help to ensure a good outcome to their photos. Remind them to keep their fingers away from the lens and the flash when taking pictures.
- 3). Show young children how to frame their subject. Depending on the camera model, explain that what they see in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen is the image the camera will capture when they press the shoot button. Demonstrate as many times as necessary until they understand. For very young children, encourage them to hold the camera as straight as possible with the lens pointing directly at the subject. Once this basic skill is mastered, give older children the artistic license to experiment and angle their cameras for more interesting shots.
- 4). Teach young photographers to be still. Explain that both the photographer and the subject must be as still as possible when a photo is taken to prevent blurred shots.
- 5). Demonstrate the camera flash. Show young children how to turn the flash function on and off and explain that it may be needed when taking pictures in settings with low lighting. Some toddler cameras may come with automatic flash settings or with no flash at all.
- 6). Encourage children to take lots of pictures. The best way to learn is by doing. The more photos they take, the better the photographers they will become. Taking more shots also increases their chances of being happy with at least one of the photos they have taken. Download their photos onto a computer or print them out and look through them together. Encourage children to take more pictures by praising their progress and creativity.
- 7). Give tips and advice. Toddlers may be very happy with any image they take; however, as children grow up, they may need your help to refine their techniques. For older children, explaining the rule of thirds or having them experiment with distances, perspectives and lighting will provide them with additional tools and ideas to expand their photography skill set.
