5 Kids Digital Cameras Frequently Asked Questions

The emergence of kids digital cameras has allowed parents to introduce their children to photography from a very early age.  If you are considering a kids digital camera purchase for your child, the answers to the following frequently asked questions should help you get started.

1. When is a Child Too Young or Too Old for a Kids Model?

Digital cameras for kids are usually suitable for a child as young as three years and as old as 7, 8, 9 or 10.  The lower age limit is reliable, as these gadgets are rugged toys that can be tossed and dropped without being broken.  At the youngest ages the main focus is having fun pushing buttons and looking into the large picture screen.

As children get older, they can take better care of a camera, and the picture quality may become more important.  When and if a child wants to move on to a beginner adult model depends on ability to take care of an expensive item and interest. Some children enjoy a camera for play acting and hamming it up when young, but will not focus on more serious picture taking activities as they mature.  An early introduction prepares any child for basic photography skills needed for school and eventually, employment.

2. What are the Benefits of Kids Digital Cameras?

The benefits of these electronic devices for children can be summarized as follows.  They are:

• Durable-no need for parents to worry about protecting their investment-most models are shock resistant and some models are waterproof.


• Easy to Use-large buttons, rounded sides, two-eye viewfinders, and large viewing screens are the sorts of features that make a digital camera for kids easy to use.


• Fun and Interactive--children can take pictures and immediately see what they have taken on the camera screen.  With help from parents (as needed) they can print out photos to share with others.  Children love to pose for pictures and create funny shots.


• Learning Tools-taking pictures naturally develops powers of observation.  Photography is an art that can develop into a lifetime hobby.  It is also a skill that is often indispensable for school projects and business communications.

3. Are Kids Digital Cameras Real Cameras?

These are real cameras that take real pictures.  They are simplified so that a child only needs to learn how to hold the camera without moving, point, and press a shutter button.  There is often an automatic flash option.  If you are concerned about picture quality, check the number of megapixels. Usually a camera with more than 1 megapixel (mp) will  produce pictures that are adequate for standard sized prints.

4. Is a Kids Digital Camera Expensive?

A good quality model can cost from $50 to $80, which will be under or just approaching the cost of a cheap adult model.  When assessing the cost, take into account the unique features of a child's model-durability and design features that make them easy to use for small hands and inexperienced photographers.  You may also want to consider optional features that are sometimes included, such as a large internal memory, water resistance, games, and kids photo editing software.

5. What is the Best Digital Camera for Kids?

There are a number of high quality models on the market.  To find the best one for your child look for qualities that will be most important for your child.  Also consider factors such as budget and computer compatibility.  Excellent sources of information, found online, are kids digital camera reviews and forums.