Kids Can Capture

Buying a Camera for Your Child
If you are considering purchasing a camera that will be primarily used by your child I advise against buying a camera that is made for kids.  Camera's today are very intuitive and a basic review of the instruction manual will put you on the right path to taking a photo that is in focus.  Afraid that your child will break the camera? Well, the first lesson to be taught about photography is equipment handling.   Practice how to hold, store and pass a camera. Most importantly, make a big deal out of using a neck and wrist band.

What to look when purchasing a camera for a child

There are several things to consider when purchasing a camera for your child:

1. Camera Size - A large camera may be too bulky and heavy for a child's' small hands.

2. LCD size (the screen on the back) - Kids like the larger LCD screens -  make sure that the camera also has a viewfinder (the little opening that you look through)

3. Zoom - You will want a camera with a decent zoom lens. Kids love to take those close up shots of animals that they can't really get close to.  A zoom lens also allows them to stay put and take a shot that is farther away.

4. A dial that lets you choose how to shoot (close-ups, sports, low light, auto). These options are great if you want to use this camera as a building block to learning photograph.

There are many brands and varieties of cameras out there on the market.  A decent camera can be purchased for $175.  Don't forget an extra memory card and batteries!