Give your kids your camera!… Just for a little while, and see what they come up with!

This past week, our family went on a camping trip and I thought it would be a great little family activity if we went for a nature walk with our cameras. I let my girls have turns with the Rebel while I took pictures of them with my Canon 7D. It was such a fun experience for everyone!

My girls have expressed an interest in photography for a little while now, especially my youngest, Summer. The excitement and the look on their faces when they got to hold Mommy’s camera was priceless!

Here are a few tips that might help when you hand over your camera to your child when they’re first starting out!

[1] Put a neck strap on your camera and have them wear it!

This will eliminate the possibility of dropping and damaging your camera, giving you peace of mind when letting your child use your expensive gear!

[2] Show them how to hold the camera properly.

This will help their tiny hands stabilize the camera and keep it balanced. If you’re new to photography yourself, you might find our post on proper handholding helpful.

[3] Set the camera on Auto mode.

Go ahead, it’s ok! There will be plenty of time to start teaching them the manual modes later. The important thing is getting them comfortable with the camera first. Throwing too much information at them all at once will frustrate and discourage them.

[4] Let them have at it!

Now that your camera is secure, they know how to hold it properly, and the settings are ready to go, it’s time to let them have it. Stand back and watch them get creative! It’s always so fun to see what they come up with on their own.

[Bonus Tip] Capture these Precious Memories

Make sure you remember to take pictures of them taking pictures. Use your phone to capture these moments if an extra camera isn’t available. You’ll be glad you captured these precious memories!