How To Choose The Best Camera For Kids According To Their Age

Why Buy A Camera For Kids And Selecting The Best Option

Kids are growing up in an age where they are exposed to technology driven tools and devices on a daily basis. This makes them prone to understand and be able to pick up the ways of operating such devices at a very young age. Whether it is smart phones, tablets or other electronic devices, you might even think they have an innate ability to understand how such devices operate even at a very young stage. A camera therefore would be an ideal device to gift a child to help pick up the fundamentals of a very interesting hobby.

But like any other device, when you are selecting a camera for a child, you must choose something that is firstly safe for the child to use. No matter how tech savvy they are, you should stay clear of gadgets which have small piece which might cause safety issues such as choking hazards. Leading camera brands specify which age group the camera is suitable for in accordance with safety standards so that you can make your selection. Other selection criteria include:

• Durability
• Price point – ideally you could look for best cameras under 200 which are not too costly and will open up a wide selection of devices you can choose from
• Attractiveness of design
• Performance and other features offered

Best Cameras Under 200 Made Suitable For Kids

For little ones, the VTech KidiZoom would make a great first camera to own. This brand of devices is renowned for producing a whole range of electronic devices and toys which are highly safe and suitable for kids. The camera is designed to be quite tough and able to withstand the knock and drops such a device will have to endure in the hands of a child. The controls are also simple and the ergonomic design has been created in a manner where kids can maneuver the device with their little fingers.

If you are looking for a device for a slightly older child, the Nikon Coolpix S31 is a great option to consider. Ideal for older kids, this device will allow the child to explore the options related to photography and create an interest in learning about the subject in the process. The performance feature such as 3x optical zoom lens, 10MP resolution, and ISO range of 80-1600 make it an ideal entry level device which is available at a very affordable price point.

Article Written By Photographer Greg Stefaniak

Review Of The Best Cameras For Kids Available In The Market For Different Price Ranges

Kids are becoming more and more accustomed to using digital devices and they are quite fast learners when it involves operating such devices. Therefore parents often consider buying a digital camera for kids as this would be an exciting hobby to cultivate as well as be something which will help their child enhance various skills required while growing. You would often have a budget in mind when looking to purchase such as piece of equipment. At each price category the features will vary which will allow you to select the most suitable option for your child.

Cameras For Kids Below 100 Dollars

Vtech Kidizoom

The Vtech Kidizoom is an excellent first camera any parent could buy for their child. Being available for less than 80 dollars, it offers the right amount of toughness needed in a camera for kids. Feature wise it has 4x digital zoom and 1.3 megapixel resolution. What makes it more attractive to kids is the game function and the ability to capture videos. On the downside the photo quality is not exceptional and is somewhat blurry. The screen is also a bit small for little kids.

Nikon Coolpix S31

The Nikon Coolpix S31 is also an interesting option of camera for kids. Retailing close to 100 dollars, it comes in attractive colors to choose from. Kids would love the more grown up appearance seen in the model as well. In terms of durability the camera is waterproof, dustproof and shockproof which is ideal for kids who tend to drop things. It also comes with a 10 megapixel CCD sensor, 3x optical zoom and 720p HD video capability. Although prescribed for underwater use, the screen is somewhat unclear and there is a delay in shutter speed.

Under 200 Dollar Digital Camera For Kids

In this range the Olympus SZ-15 camera is a very attractive option to purchase. This would be ideal for children who love to spend more time outdoors. It would also be a great way to encourage your child to enjoy the outside environment more. It comes with a 16 megapixel CCD sensor, and 24x optical zoom. It is also capable of recording full HD video in 1080p and has a variety of filters for added creative expression. Other notable cameras in this range are the Canon Powershot SX160 IS and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC–TF1.

What Are The Best Pocket Cameras For Kids Of Different Age Groups And Experience Levels?

You could choose to give your child a camera for fun or as a gift to help them get started on one of the most interesting hobbies a person can engage in. If you are uncertain about the interest your child would show in photography or concerned whether your child is too small to understand the working of your camera it is best not to splurge too much on a high priced piece of equipment. There are many good models which fall into the category of top rated pocket cameras under $200 from which you can choose from.

Best Pocket Cameras For Kids Below 12

Cameras for the tiny tots

This group would ideally need something tough enough, simple and easy to use, and most importantly a camera model which is safe. Always check for small parts and choking hazards and strictly follow the manufacturer’s advice on target age limits. The Fisher-Price Kid-Tough Digital Camera is one of the best first digital cameras you can get your little one. It is safe to use and you would not need to worry about the investment since being priced at about $44.99 it is one of the top rated pocket cameras under $200 for little ones.

Cameras for school-going children

Camera manufacturers have released a few models which are suitable for middle school kids to take around with them. You could get you child one of these options to take along with them on school trips and outings. The Panasonic Lumix TS4 is a good model for children who have outgrown the simple toy like cameras and have the understanding of controlling the different options of a camera. It is also quite rugged in nature and capable of withstanding a rough tumble. Another good and cheaper option is the Nikon Coolpix S31 which is also quite durable.

Cameras For Teenagers And Kids Who Are Interested In Photography

This group of kids would definitely want to get their hands on an interesting piece of photography equipment. You still would not necessarily need to spend a fortune on a complex DSLR camera. There are many compact camera models which are much more advanced and offer a wider range of features. The Canon Rebel SL1 is a good beginner level camera which could be used in photography classes to learn and understand the use of an SLR.